Jim Foti, Former J. H.S. Athletic Star, Signs Contract in W. Virginia

ERIE, Pa. - Jim Foti, football and basketball coach of Cathedral Prep’s Ramblers has signed a contract for a similar position at Central Catholic high, Wheeling, West Virginia.

Foti, who was "tentatively appointed" athletic director at Cathedral Prep this summer by Rev. Victor F. Miller, headmaster, is expected to take up his duties at the West Virginia school sometime this month.

Neither Foti or Rev. Father Miller was available for comment on the sudden move but it is understood that the former Jamestown, N. Y., and John Carroll university athlete made application for his new berth last week with the knowledge and approval of Cathedral Prep authorities.

Just who will be appointed successor to Foti has not been settled as yet, but it is understood that Rev. Father Miller has several applications under consideration.

The new position represents a definite advancement. With a student body of nearly 400, its enrollment is twice that of Cathedral Prep.

However, Foti is stepping into a more promising situation as regards football. Last year's Central Catholic eleven was able to win but one game during a nine game schedule, a 13-12 victory over St. John's, Bellaire, Ohio.

In basketball, it will be a different story. Foti will have his assignment cut out for him as Central has won the Catholic basketball diadem four times in the past five years, gaining the title last spring and representing West Virginia in the National Catholic Prep tournament at Chicago.

Foti will be the fourth head pilot at the West Virginia school since 1937, a season when Joe Gates became the first of three Duquesne athletes to serve the local institution.

Gates remained two years, and was followed by James Casillo, who bowed out after the 1939 season in favor of another Pennsylvanian, Jack Wright, whose poor gridiron record reportedly resulted in his dismissal.

Foti came to Cathedral Prep in the fall of 1939 and served as football coach. Last year he took over basketball in addition to the gridiron assignment.