By: TODD RUTH Review Sports Editor truth.eph@lnpnews.com, Staff Writer

Ephrata decided to stay "in-house" by hiring Steve Sweigart as the man to replace Tommy Long as Athletic Director at EHS.

Sweigart, the current boys varsity tennis coach at the school, is a physical education teacher at Ephrata Middle School and has served as a teacher and coach for the district for over 20 years.

He was recommended by administration to the school board Monday evening at committee meeting.

"Steve has been a dedicated teacher and coach for the last 23 years at Ephrata and has served several roles within the community," Ephrata Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Education Dr. Brian Troop said Tuesday. "We are fortunate to have someone like this step up to the plate and take on the position."

The position became vacant when Long announced in October he was leaving his post at Ephrata to take over that same position in the Annville-Cleona School District.

The Lebanon County native, who came to Ephrata in 2007, will succeed Karen Evans at A-C where he will assume some additional principal duties in addition to his A.D. responsibilities.

Sweigart will be transitioning into his new role over the next two weeks, working closely with Long before he departs for A-C.