When replacing a coach who had been in the Reed softball dugout for 12 years, athletic director Ron Coombs knew he would have to find someone who valued the tradition of excellence the Raiders have achieved.

That’s why he tabbed Jon Wunder to follow in the footsteps of Ray Charles.

“Jon has been in the program in an unofficial and official capacity,” Coombs said. “Jon has been coaching in the Sparks area for a very long time. He understands the tradition at Reed, which is something that really stood out in his interview. His goal is to keep the tradition going. It’s one of the most successful programs in northern Nevada.”

Over a half dozen candidates applied for the job and Wunder was one of many qualified potential future Reed head coaches. He has coached travel ball for about 10 years and was Reed’s top assistant last spring under Charles. He also watched his daughter, Tia, start four years for the Raiders, so he knows what the program is about and wants to continue it down that path.

“I went back and looked and in at least northern Nevada, Reed has been the best program in the past 20-25 years,” Wunder said. “Wooster, Spanish Springs and McQueen all had their two to four-year runs where they were very good, but Reed has consistently been a top program. I do believe that goes back to stability within the program. It is quite an honor to be entrusted with the program, and I’m excited about the future.”