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Sam Messina steps down as Chaparral baseball coach to be AD

By Richard Obert , azcentral sports 10:48 a.m. MT June 10, 2017 , 06/14/17, 6:00PM MST

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Sam Messina, only the second coach in Scottsdale Chaparral baseball's rich history, stepped down as coach on Friday to become assistant principal and athletic director at the school.

Messina replaces Tommy Eubanks, who is moving over to Phoenix Desert Vista to replace T.J. Snyder as AD.

Messina replaced legendary coach Jerry Dawson after the 2010 season and led the Firebirds to back-to-back state championships in his first two seasons leading the program.

Chaparral finished 23-7-2 this past season, competing in the 5A Conference.

Chaparral's last state championship was on on a walk-off home run by Dylan Cozens in 2012 against Brophy Prep.

Messina served as an assistant to Dawson for three years before taking over the program from Dawson, who coached Chaparral in its first 37 years, winning 773 games and eight state championships.

"I was privileged to coach in such a good program with great kids and support for the past 10 years," Messina said. "I am now looking forward to not only continuing to help students at Chaparral, but coaches and faculty members, as well."

To suggest human-interest story ideas and other news, reach Obert at richard.obert@arizonarepublic.com or 602-316-8827. Follow him at twitter.com/azc_obert.