The enthusiasm is clearly evident in Rob Page’s voice. He thoroughly enjoys being part of the Reading High School community.
Tonight, Page was formally introduced as the Reading head football coach. And he spoke about the opportunity in front of him this upcoming season.
“The kids are coachable,” Page told WCPO.com. “They are buying into the hard work and they are excited.”
A Colerain Township resident, Page coached the past two seasons at Milan (Ind.) High School (yes of Hoosiers fame).
The Indianapolis native played tight end at Ben Davis High School and at Wittenberg University. Page coached at Wittenberg, Eastern Michigan and Mercyhurst.
At the high school level, he was the special teams and defensive coordinator at Centerville and the run game and offensive coordinator at Springboro.
“What we like most about Rob is that he has great energy and enthusiasm,” Reading athletic director Nick Lunsford said. “He has a lot of experience on both sides of the ball and he is a great teacher both on the field and in the classroom.”
Page, 33, said he’s increased the tempo in the weight room and said the Blue Devils are on good footing with what previous coach Pat McLaughlin built. McLaughlin accepted the Princeton head coaching position in March.
Lunsford said the Reading players like Page’s style and are receptive to his instruction.
“He has made a strong impact already,” Lunsford said.
Reading made the Division IV playoffs in 2015 – the first postseason appearance for the Blue Devils since 2006. Reading entered Week 10 with a 9-0 record for the first time since 2002.
Page said Reading isn’t in a rebuilding mode and he’s eager to continue the success. He’s also been impressed by the community around the athletic teams.
“Every person I’ve encountered has been extremely supportive,” Page said.
