The choice of Liuzza was as close to a no-brainer as you will ever conceive of. During his tenure as Offensive Coordinator, Slidell high played for a state title and made the state semifinals. Liuzza adapted to personnel and the changing times as well, going from the Wing-T offense to the Spread offense that the Tigers now run so efficiently.

As a guest recently on my All Access show on WGSO (6-8 PM), Liuzza spoke about the patience he exhibited and the opportunity: "I had applied for the head coaching position when Wayne (Grubb) was named. I understood his choice at the time and I truly enjoyed working with him," said Grubb. "I look upon this as an opportunity to continue the marvelous tradition he created."
Liuzza inherits a program that went 8-3 a year ago and lost in the opening round of the state playoffs to Westlake. Slidell has a challenge on its hands with only five of 22 starters returning from that squad. Running back Ryan Tott is the most notable of those back for the 2007 season.

Liuzza has put his sons through Slidell High, most recently, Stephen, who was a star quarterback on the state semifinal team of two seasons ago. Artie, himself, was a star player at Chalmette High over three decades ago. Speaking of Chalmette, Liuzza hired Owls head coach Tony Jurich to fill his assistant coaching slot at Slidell.

In many cases, there are many worthy candidates when head coaching positions become vacant. In this case, Liuzza was by far the most qualified and deserving applicant. This was a smart hire which helps build faith in the tried-and-true system of promoting from within when someone has performed well.

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