Troy Starr coming back

Former Taft High of Woodland Hills coach Troy Starr has decided to return to Southern California and coach high school football, after just one season as the director of operations at the University of Florida.

``It was a great experience, but I'm a coach. I missed the kids, I missed coaching on the field,'' Starr said. ``I think I'm a better coach now than when I left. I learned so much being in on those staff meetings, talking to Tim Tebow every day. But I realized I'm a coach, and I missed it.''

Starr doesn't know exactly where he'll be coaching next season, but plans to apply to several jobs in Southern California. One job he said he isn't planning to pursue is his old one, at Taft.

``Taft is not an option. They are in good hands with (my) close personal friend Matt Kerstetter,'' Starr said. ``I need a new challenge.''

Starr left Taft last spring when he was offered the chance to become a part of Urban Meyer's staff at Florida. Starr and Meyer have known each other since their college days, in Ohio, and have remained close friends over the years.

Starr said Meyer gave his blessing to the move, and that their friendship will not suffer because of it.

``Urban understands and our relationship is stronger then ever, we both knew that this could happen,'' Starr said.

--Ramona Shelburne