Old Coaches to depart Restic to Bring in New Staff

No members of John Yovicsin's staff will be retained by new head coach Joe Restic unless Restic must make some last-minute changes in his plans.

He said yesterday afternoon that he has offered the five positions to men "outside of the present staff" and hopes to get responses from the five within a few days. "I want to make sure we're all ready to go by the beginning of the next semester," he added.

Restic, who was talking to some of the prospects yesterday, indicated that two of his assistants on the Hamilton Tiger Cats had been offered positions. He did not mention where the others, including the black coach he wants, are from.

Among those who will depart is Ralph Jelic, Yovicsin's successful defensive coordinator for three years and a leading candidate to replace him before Restic was chosen in December.

Encounter at Astroworld

"I just thought it best to look for another job," Jelic said yesterday. Restic said at the time of his appointment that he would interview all Yovicsin's assistants, but Jelic decided not to have an interview. He met Restic when they were both at last week's NCAA Convention in Houston's Astroworld Hotel and Jelic approached him in the lobby to offer congratulations.

"If I were to stay, it would put the kids in an awkward position," Jelic explained. He had earned the affection of many players on the team, mainly because of his open-mindedness and his ability to get along with them. Apparently this would have made it more difficult for a new head coach to earn allegiance.

Turning Pro

Jelic has talked to two professional teams and some colleges, including one in the Ivy League, about being an assistant. He has also discussed the possibility of being the head man with a small New England college. He's most interested in a pro-job. "I don't have anything now, but I feel certain that something will come about. It's just a matter of time," he said.

Though Jelic was not interested in staying. Tom Modrak and Bob Yales were reportedly inclined to remain at Harvard if possible. It appears that they will not get the chance unless Restic is unable to obtain the men he wants.

Freshman coaches Henry Lamar and Loyal Park will be retained.