English Valleys makes Pohren new AD

NORTH ENGLISH — From first year golf coach to English Valleys athletic director.

Larry Pohren has been named to lead the English Valleys athletic programs after Zach Weilbacher, also in his first year, moved into the middle/high school principal role.

“As EV’s athletic director, Mr. Weilbacher has already made meaningful contributions, including launching livestreaming for school activities and improving calendar coordination through Bound,” the school said in a statement in June.

Being a principal was something Weilbacher has always wanted and the opportunity was there for him. Weilbacher will continue his role as the high school boys basketball coach.

“It has always been a goal of mine to be a principal, and when the job came open, I had a lot of teachers telling me to apply,” Weilbacher said.

When Weilbacher accepted that role in June, the search began for a new AD. English Valleys didn’t have to search far, as Pohren was ready to step in.

“I was raised with the understanding that whenever you can contribute and meet needs, you do what you can,” Pohren said.

“I have worked with some of the best athletic directors in the state. It was always in the back of my mind that if I was ever given the opportunity, I would at least give it a try. I am honored to represent English Valleys as an instructor and now as the athletic director,” Pohren said.

Pohren feels he has settled in nicely in the community and school in a short time. He previously worked at Iowa City Regina.

“I have been so blessed to be a small part of this community,” Pohren said. “They have been so welcoming.

“From the school board, administration, faculty, staff, student body, parents and people of North English, I was made to feel like family from day one.”

Pohren also said he had a positive first season as the head coach of both golf teams.

“My first season as a golf coach was phenomenal,” Pohren said. “I had the best group of student athletes to work with. Most of the credit goes to the kids for their hard work and dedication.”

Stepping into this new role with fall sports officially beginning next week, Pohren is excited for the opportunity and for English Valleys’ athletics.

“I am most excited about seeing our student athletes compete and represent English Valleys and the community with drive, desire and determination,” Pohren said.

“Moving forward, my vision is to see English Valleys competitive at all levels in all our activities.”

Pohren will be the third AD in three years for the school, but he does not see that as a sign of instability.

“My goal is to serve the English Valleys community as a whole with character, integrity, and class, as the people who were before me,” Pohren said.

“I am here to serve, lead, and be a positive influence at English Valleys, nothing more, nothing less.”