A two-month search for Matt Turner’s replacement has come to an end. Warren County High School announced Wednesday it has hired Eric Belew to be the new leader of the Pioneer football program.

Belew, 30, is a graduate of Columbia Central High School who played college football at Tennessee Tech and the University of North Alabama. He has been in coaching for the last seven years, including the last two seasons serving as the head coach of Armuchee High School in Rome, Ga.

Belew led the Indians to a 7-14 record over two seasons. He also was the head coach at Cumberland County for one year in 2019, where the Jets finished 0-10.

“I am excited about Coach Belew joining our Pioneer family,” said WCHS Executive Principal Chris Hobbs in a press release sent from the school. “Selecting a new head football coach is about more than just finding someone with a winning record—it’s about finding a leader who will inspire our players, foster a positive team culture, and represent the values of our school both on and off the field.”

Belew and his wife Hannah, who will also be working the for the WC school system, are expected to be in town by next week to begin meeting and greeting with their coworkers. On the statement, Belew added, “We are so excited to be a part of the Pioneer family. This opportunity is a dream come true for our family, and we can’t wait to see what God has in store for our family and the Warren County football program.”

Belew will take over a program that has lost its last 19 games, but will be venturing into new territory as it begins playing a non-region schedule in 2025 and 2026.

See Friday’s Standard for more details.