WAILUKU — A familiar face around St. Anthony School is taking over as athletic director.

Charlie Pico, a 1976 graduate of the school who is entering his third season as the Trojans' football coach, is replacing Don Snyder, who recently retired following three years as athletic director.

''We were fortunate to have many outstanding applicants and they all possessed in one form or the other the qualities we were looking for,'' selection committee member Joe Cardoza said to The Maui News. ''I think the committee was of the view, in terms of the total package, Charlie Pico presented the complete package it was looking for.''

The Trojans, under Pico, earned a 37-12 win over Fort McMurray of British Columbia, Canada, on Aug. 24, 2007, breaking a 21-game winless streak dating to 2004.

St. Anthony went on to finish 1-6 in the Maui Interscholastic League and 2-7 overall.

''It was really important for the program and the kids to believe and have some hope, to move in the right direction, move forward,'' said Pico, 49, who will be retiring this summer from his career as a firefighter.

Snyder pointed out that Pico does have somewhat of an advantage coming into the job, although the position will present new tasks and challenges in addition to those as head football coach.

''He's got a head start because he knows the kids,'' he said. ''He's been here, he's from the school, he graduated from the school, so he understands the workings of the school.

''He's got a good support here at St. Anthony, so they'll all help him.''

Whatever the upcoming year brings, Pico is looking forward to the opportunity before him.

''It's a challenge and I know I've got a lot to learn and I'm lucky to have a lot of people surrounding me to learn from,'' he said. ''Being able to retire (and continue) coaching, and being here at my alma mater is exciting.''

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