Westminster's football program has maintained a motto for more than a decade. "One Heartbeat" has appeared on team T-shirts, been painted on walls throughout the school and chanted following games with players hand-in-hand.
With that in mind, Owls athletic director Terry Molloy thought the school's next coach would have to know the importance of that motto. That's why, when alumnus and seven-year assistant Matt Study applied for the position, it seemed like a great fit.
"I don't think we're going to skip a beat," Molloy said. "Matt's been a big part of our program."
Brad Wilson announced in March that he was stepping down after 11 years at the helm. During that span, the Owls were 71-48, won four county titles, made it to the Class 4A state semifinals in 2012 and the 3A state championship game in 2005.
Staying in familiar territory, in the community where he grew up, was one of the reasons Study wanted to take the next step at Westminster.
Saying he was "ecstatic" about the opportunity, the 11th head coach in Westminster's school history is focused on maintaining consistency within the program, rather than shaking things up.
"I'm a product of Coach Wilson," Study said. "We're still going to spread it out. There's no reason to change what we do. Our coaches know exactly what they need to do."
Staying with the theme of familiarity, Study has chosen to keep a similar staff as well. Study said Matt Cahill, the team's receivers coach over the past few seasons, will now serve as offensive coordinator. AD Potts will continue heading the defense, Study said.
That consistency on the sidelines was important to Study, who played football at Wesley after graduating from Westminster in 1995.
With the position vacant for more than one month, Study's first concern was preserving the interest of Westminster's returning players, and getting them ready for offseason workouts.
So far, however, he's pleased to say that it hasn't been an issue.
"The commitment has been amazing," Study said. "During this time, they haven't gone off course."
Following the rush of congratulatory calls, texts and good wishes from throughout the community, as well as from players within the program, Study said he's ready to get to work.
"To ensure that we are mentally and physically tough, and that we have that consistent drive to always stay hungry," he said. "That's what I want. I want to be consistent all the way through all levels."
Westminster will have its hands full this fall now that Carroll County is leaving the Monocacy Valley Athletic League. Unfamiliar opponents will fill a schedule unlike any the Owls have played.
But, with one of the school's own taking over the top job, Molloy said he's confident Study is the right man to lead the team into that uncharted territory.
"He's very passionate about the kids here, about the program and the school," said Molloy. "I bleed Columbia blue, black and white. And I believe he does too."