Archbishop Wood hires McGee as softball coach

Jay McGee has been named softball coach at Archbishop Wood, and he is virtually guaranteed to have an interesting time in the Catholic League this season.

His daughters, Jade and Jenna, play for league rivals Conwell-Egan and Archbishop Ryan, respectively.

Jade is a senior, and Jenna is a freshman.

"There will be some days when there will be no talking in the McGee household," Jay McGee said with a laugh. "We're used to it, though. We're a softball family. Some days will be happy, some days will be sad, depending on who wins or loses."

McGee, 45, succeeds Dave Hoch as Vikings coach. Hoch took the head-coaching position at Penn State's Abington campus. McGee served as junior-varsity coach at Wood in 2006 before leaving to become the assistant coach at Conwell-Egan, where he was for the past three seasons.

"Opportunities come along that have to be taken," McGee said of his application for the Wood post.

Among the returning players McGee will count on next season are two first-team all-Catholic League selections, first baseman/outfielder Jess Tate and shortstop Sarah Yoos. Tate is one of the top hitters in the area.

Last season, Wood finished 15-7 and reached the Catholic League quarterfinals before losing to St. Hubert. The Vikings will open the season March 31 against Cardinal O'Hara.