Olentangy Liberty’s first search for a new football coach in the 20-year history of the program didn’t take long.

The Patriots didn’t have to look far, either, hiring one of their own to take over for Steve Hale, who was the only football coach in the school’s two-decade history prior to announcing he’d step down early last month. Hale, who finished with a record of 154-76, took 15 teams to the playoffs, capturing eight league championships and three Division I regional titles along the way.

The second head coach at Liberty, pending board approval at Thursday’s Board of Education meeting, will be John Sansbury, who knows a thing or two about being a Patriot.

“Being named head coach at Liberty is an absolute honor and privilege,” Sansbury said. “We have an incredible community with outstanding kids, and I’m very grateful and excited that I get to continue to be a part of it in this new role.

“Liberty football has a history of excellence and high expectations.”

Sansbury would know, too.

He played football under Hale before graduating as a member of the school’s first graduating class in 2005. He’s also coached with Hale, working his way up from an assistant coach for the freshman team to defensive coordinator at the varsity level, where he served most recently.

In all, Sansbury’s coached in 26 playoff games, including three state final four appearances and two regional finals showings.

“Coach Hale has been a huge influence in my life,” Sansbury said. “He’s shown me what it takes to be a great leader and build and sustain a successful program. When I played for him, he held my teammates and I to a high standard and pushed us to be better than we thought we could be — which is what great coaches do.

“He’s been a great example of what relentless coaching looks like, and the power and importance of being consistent.”

Now, it’s Sansbury’s turn to lead by example.

“John Sansbury has been a Liberty Patriot from the beginning as a three-sport athlete and member of the first graduating class,” Liberty Athletic Director Darin Meeker said. “He’s grown into an outstanding leader amongst students and staff over the past 14 years.”