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Lowndes County Public Schools announced Thursday the appointment of a county-wide athletic director. In a simultaneous announcement, Central High School shared the news it welcomed a new head football coach.

Ervin Starr, longtime head football coach at The Calhoun School, was named the system’s athletic director. Superintendent Samita Jeter expressed her confidence in Starr, who takes on the position following former athletic director Nickles Rankins.

“We are excited about the wealth of knowledge Coach Starr will bring to the position,” Jeter said. “He has been charged with adding innovative ideas that will highlight Lowndes County athletes.

“I’m impressed with his humility and enthusiasm for athletics. It is my expectation that he will work relentlessly to support our student-athletes and coaches while building stronger relationships with the Lowndes County community, fans, and alumni.”

Starr said he is looking forward to continuing the level of excellence the school system has come to expect.

“I am thankful that Ms. Jeter and the school board trust and believe that I worthy and capable of following Nick Rankins in this position,” Starr said. “He did an absolutely amazing job during his tenure. I will do my best to uphold all of the characteristics, values and relationships while working hard to continue the growth of Lowndes County Athletics. I look forward to working with all of our student athletes, coaches, administrators and the entirety of the Lowndes County community.”

Julian Little assumes the responsibilities of head coach at Central and said he comes to the position with a plan to fill the role “better than it’s ever been done.”

“Well just like any position in any career field it brings a wide range of emotions,” Little. “I’m just anxious and ready to start something new for myself and the program.”