By WJBC Staff

FAIRBURRY – For the first time in seven years, a new face is leading the Prairie Central Boys’ basketball team.

During a recent Prairie Central School Board meeting, members approved Darin Bazzell’s resignation and Trevin McCulloh’s hiring.

Coach Bazzell leaves the program after the tragic death of his son Dylan Bazzell and teammate Drew Fehr.

Last year, Bazzell stepped away from the program but remained active in practices and games.

In a social media post, Darin Bazell said it was a blessing and honor to coach at Prairie Central and knows the program is in great hands with Coach McCulloh.

“I want to thank the school and the community for supporting us over the last seven years. I can’t thank my wife and sons enough for supporting and helping me through this. It was a blessing and an honor to coach at PC, the only team I’ve ever truly loved.

I was blessed to be able to coach both Trey and Dylan and I know that is something special that not many fathers get the opportunity to do. Those are times and memories that are so precious to me.”

Darin’s other son, Trey, is a star point guard at Illinois Wesleyan University.

WJBC staff can be reached at [email protected].