Bowen quits UTC basketball staff

Thursday, July 7, 2011

photo In this file photo, UTC coach John Shulman, right, sits to Jay Bowen during a game against Tennessee Wesleyan at McKenzie Arena. Bowen has left UTC for a job at a private school in Florida.

University of Tennessee at Chattanooga men's basketball assistant coach Jay Bowen has left John Shulman's staff for a job at a private school in Florida.

While out of town on vacation, Shulman said in a phone interview Wednesday that Bowen has accepted a job at Cambridge Christian School in Tampa, where he will be the boys basketball coach and athletic director.

"In coaching, the last time I checked, it's not the most stable profession, so you're always ready [when someone leaves]," Shulman said. "The biggest thing is, he's got a great opportunity and we're really happy for him."

Bowen was hired by Shulman in early July 2010, after David Conrady left the UTC bench following six seasons at Shulman's side. Shulman said Bowen turned down Cambridge Christian's initial offer, but couldn't say no to the second.

As for hiring a replacement, "I've already got a bunch of guys in mind," Shulman said, later adding that he'd already received numerous calls about the opening. He said he hoped to have the position filled by Aug. 1.

July is a major recruiting month, but Shulman said the loss of Bowen wouldn't put UTC at a disadvantage. The NCAA allows three coaches to be on the road in July and the Mocs will have three.

Director of basketball operations Brian Benator took the NCAA recruiting test Monday, Shulman said, and will be able to hit the road, along with assistants Rick Cabrera and Brent Jolly.

"Athletics teaches you that you've got to move and groove quickly," Shulman said. "We acted quick and we're not going to skip a beat."