Columbia, SC - Benjamin Trapp has been named the new head basketball coach at Benedict College. The announcement was made at a press conference, last week, by the college president Dr. David H. Swinton.
Trapp, a 1965 graduate of Benedict and a member of the Tigers' basketball for team four years, replaces Willie Washington, who is stepping down to devote his efforts full-time as athletic director.
Trapp, a highly successful high school coach, brings an enviable prep record to the Tigers' program. His high school record is 376-155. This past season his Keenan Raider team was runnerup for the state class AAA championship, an honor his team captured in 1991.
Trapp began his coaching career in 1965 at C.A. Johnson High School where he compiled a 139-25 record in 10 years. He later served as an assistant to George Glymph at Eau Claire High School before taking the reins at Keenan High in 1984.
"I'm happy to return home." Trapp said. "The fartherest thing from my mind was coaching at my alma mater. However, I appreciate the opportunity Benedict has provided for me and I hope to continue the winning tradition here.
"President said that Benedict has won 52 championships in EIAC (Eastern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference) competition," Trapp added. " I want to keep the string alive. There are a lot of positive things happening here Benedict and I want to be a part of them."
Washington, who steps down with a 10-year record of 233-69 at Benedict including nine EIAC championships, said Trapp was the best of more than 50 applicants for the post.
"We think we have the best man for the job," said Washington, who guided the Tigers to a 17-9 record last season, his first sub-20-win worksheet. "Trapp brings a lot of coaching savvy here. He is also a strict disciplinarian and is strong advocate of education first. These are the qualities that make for a long marriage."
