Hank Hollywood, a 1996 graduate of Celina High School, was named athletic director, head football coach and classroom teacher at a called meeting of the Italy School Board of Trustees Tuesday evening.

The vote was unanimous with those members in attendance. Mark Stiles and Marty Haight were not present at the meeting.

Following the brief meeting of the trustees, Barry Bassett, superintendent, told the 60-plus students and parents in attendance that the district is excited to have Hollywood join the district.

Bassett described Hollywood as committed and passionate. “He’ll bring the winning tradition back to Italy ISD,” he said.

Hollywood, currently employed at Red Oak High School, said he was excited and blessed to be head coach here.

The coach described himself as “a worker;” an attribute he learned from his coaches at Celina High School. “I owe my success to those coaches; they raised me.”

Hollywood said he is excited and will always have an open door policy.

Hollywood, a 2000 graduate of Texas A&M University, is married to Amy, public relations director for the City of Waxahachie. They have two children – Brock, 6; and D.J., 11.

Before the meeting, Celeste Carroll, superintendent’s secretary, drew for placement on the ballot for the upcoming school board election. There are four candidates running to fill two seats. They will appear on the ballot in the following order – Albert Garcia Jr., Mark Souder Sr., Russ Lewis and Cheryl Owen (incumbent).

Elections will be held May 12 from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m.