Bulldogs announce Stark as new wrestling coach

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint High School athletic director Kris Knowles announced this week that Jake Stark will succeed Mike Randles as the head wrestling coach for the Bulldogs.

Stark, who was an assistant coach last year for the Bulldogs, was previously the head coach at Priest River for a few years.

Randles, who guided the Bulldog program for 17 years and won three state championships along the way, took a job as the assistant principal recently, prompting the unexpected job opening.

Stark is already a teacher at Sandpoint, and is also involved in the local youth program, and Knowles is excited about the hire.

“He’ll be a great asset for us. He’s active in the Top Dog program, which is a good connection for us,” said Knowles. “He connects with all types of kids, which is critical in wrestling, and he’s a good communicator. Theses are qualities you want in your head coach.”

Stark, who is currently fighting fires in the region, could not be reached for comment.