Paul Sponheimer's personal choice to replace him as football coach at Seymour was finally made official on Monday.

Tom Lennon will take over head coaching duties for the Wildcats this fall. Lennon was the defensive coordinator for Sponheimer, who retired after 29 seasons and four state championships.

"I'm really excited about this opportunity," Lennon said. "I graduated from Seymour (in 1997), I played for Seymour. I graduated (from college) with a finance degree with all intentions of getting a job in the business world. When I was looking for my first job, I did some substitute teaching and coaching and I loved it so much. I had to be a teacher to be a coach. Being a Seymour Wildcat, and being involved in football, is all I've ever know."

Lennon, who is also the indoor and outdoor boys' and girls' track coach at the school, says Sponheimer has been a big influence.

"He's been great," Lennon said. "He's a large part of who I am as a person. Aside from my own parents and family, he's one of the most influential men in my life. Obviously, there are big shoes to fill but he'll be there to support me as I transition in."