EBEN — Superior Central High School named new varsity and junior varsity head coaches in boys basketball on Thursday.

Chris Prunick was named the varsity boys coach while Branson Richard will head the JV program for the Cougars.

Prunick replaces Matt Rondeau, who led the varsity team for two years, compiling a 3-18 record each season. Rondeau’s 2016-17 team also went 2-11 in the Skyline Central Conference, losing its last 15 games overall and exiting the Class D district tournament after its first game.

Prunick has been an assistant for seven years under Negaunee varsity boys coach Dan Waterman, which includes their time at Munising High School.

“I want us to get better every single day and outwork everyone else,” Prunick said in a news release from the school. “I’m excited to unify the entire boys program and get us all pulling in the same direction.”

Richard is a 2011 SCHS graduate and member of Class D state semifinalist teams his junior and senior seasons. Currently he is defensive line coach for the Finlandia University football team and had been an assistant football coach at his alma mater.

“I’m looking forward to working with Coach Prunick,” Richard said in the release. “I hope that we can increase athletic involvement in all sports and all levels.”

Kristine Bray, veteran Superior Central varsity volleyball coach who was named athletic director over the summer, said she was first worried about having to fill both positions.

“We were fortunate to have a strong application pool,” Bray said.

SC Principal Bill Valima was also pleased.

“As a district, we are excited to add both Chris and Branson to our athletic staff,” said Valima, who is also the school district superintendent. “Both are young, enthusiastic and have a passion for the game. I’m looking forward to where they can potentially take our program.”

Information compiled by Journal Sports Editor Steve Brownlee. His email address is sbrownlee@miningjournal.net.