Downey leaves Bigfork to coach Whitefish basketball

Bigfork boys head basketball coach/activities director Josh Downey has been named the head boys basketball coach at Whitefish High School.

Downey, who spent one year at Bigfork, guided the Vikings to a perfect season (26-0) and their first state boys basketball championship in March. Bigfork defeated Columbus 71-62 in the Class B title game.

Downey replaces Mark Casazza, who resigned after five seasons as head coach with the Bulldogs. Casazza stepped down in March.

“We made the decision Tuesday evening, offered to Josh on Thursday,” Whitefish activities director Aric Harris said.

Harris said there were nine official applicants. He said he also fielded many inquiries about the head coaching position.

“I think it was pretty clear to us the direction we wanted to go in with our program,” Harris said.

“We feel confidence Josh provides that. His system is founded on accountability.”

Harris said the fact Downey will bring a college style of play to Whitefish “will interest our kids and be a lot of fun for our kids.”

Downey’s hire is pending school board approval at next month’s meeting.

“We had a great pool of applicants,” Harris said.

“Josh really separated himself with his wide variety of experiences. Obviously winning a state title at Bigfork in one year, that caught our attention.”

Harris said what was more impressive was Downey and the Vikings accomplished that feat with all the “high expectations.”

“We were also impressed what he did in Vancouver, Wash., and Boise, Idaho, in rebuilding programs,” Harris said.