Breaking News: Sanders takes over Duarte

As we have rumored for weeks, Duarte finally announced on Tuesday that it has hired former Blair coach Tip Sanders to take over its football program.

By Miguel Melendez
It didn’t take long for Duarte High School to zero in on a local legend. Just more than a month since the Falcon administration abruptly fired Wardell Crutchfield as head football coach, principal Eric Barba announced Tuesday night the hiring of Lavelle “Tip” Sanders. Sanders enjoyed solid success in his two previous coaching stints, first at Marshall, then at Blair.
He led the Eagles to an Alpha League championship and a CIF-Southern Section semifinals appearance before winning a Rio Hondo League title with the Vikings.
“We are certain Mr. Sanders will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to an already successful program,” said Barba in a press release issued by the school. “His reputation and past experience in building strong football programs has earned him respect and credibility among football players and coaches alike. Mr. Sanders will be assembling his coaching staff within the next few weeks. We look forward to a successful and productive season.” Crutchfield was one of the most successful coaches in Duarte history. His resume includes taking the Falcons to the CIF-SS semifinals two seasons ago. Last month he said he’d been looking forward to the return of standout running back Jordan Canada and his son Wardell Crutchfield III, who will be a junior. But those plans changed after he was let go. The Falcons were 6-6 last season and finished second in the Montview League, advancing to the Mid-Valley Division quarterfinals.
In just his second season, Sanders led little-known Vikings team to a Rio Hondo League championship and a quarterfinal appearance. He earned Pasadena Star-News Coach of the Year honors after the surprising campaign. We will have more in tomorrow’s newspaper.

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