Chad Leaphart returning to coach at alma mater Gilbert

Chad Leaphart couldn’t pass on the chance to come back home.

Leaphart has been named the new football coach and athletic director at his alma mater Gilbert, where he was a linebacker and center for the Indians from 1989-92.

Leaphart coached the past six seasons at Swansea and replaces Barry Harley, who announced his resignation in November. Harley remains as the school’s athletic director until the end of the school year.

Leaphart will remain at Swansea through the end of the school year but will conduct spring practice at Gilbert.

"It’s a neat opportunity and I’m excited about it," Leaphart said. "I loved Swansea and wouldn’t have left for many other jobs. But I don’t know many coaches who turn down a chance to go back and coach your alma mater. It is a special opportunity."

Leaphart hopes to get Gilbert back to its winning ways when he was a player. The Indians played for three consecutive lower state championships during his high school career.

"It was a great atmosphere when I played here and I would love for the kids to experience that kind of success," said Leaphart, who still lives in Gilbert.

Leaphart went 41-27 during his six seasons at Swansea. The Tigers made the playoffs his first five seasons before missing this year following a 3-7 season. Swansea won the school’s first 3A region championship in 2014 and made it to the second round of the playoffs before losing to Marlboro County.

Under Leaphart, Swansea also won a region title in Class 2A in 2011.

Gilbert went 2-8 this season and missed the postseason. The Indians will return several key players, including quarterback Tyler Thomas, who threw for more than 1,500 yards and 14 touchdowns.