The idea of Dan Whitsett back on the sideline for the Tri-Cities Fever seems a little odd, considering the way he left the organization in 2006.
But it's a real possibility.
Tri-Cities general manager Randy Schillinger confirmed Wednesday that Whitsett is one of four finalists for the coaching vacancy and said the two are scheduled to talk today.
Whitsett, who coached the Fever in 2005-06 when the organization was part of the National Indoor Football League, left the team abruptly before the playoffs in 2006, never giving a reason for his resignation.
Whitsett, who was a scout last season with the Boise Burn and is the current coach at Tri-Cities Prep in Pasco, meets the one requirement Schillinger has for the job: a winning record.
Whitsett, who took over after two games in 2005, compiled a 21-9 record, which includes the 2005 NIFL championship.
The one snag that stands in Whitsett's way is that he has never coached or played in the Arena Football League or the af2.
"He's local and he's well-respected in the Tri-Cities," Schillinger said.
One of Whitsett's former nemesis in the NIFL, Dan Maciejczak, is another finalist and probably the leading candidate.
Maciejczak, who coached the Wyoming Cavalry the past two seasons in the American Indoor Football Association, was offered the Fever coaching job last season before Schillinger hired Cedric Walker. Maciejczak declined the offer for family reasons.
Schillinger is convinced if he offers Maciejczak the job this time, the answer will be different.
"He definitely wants (the job) this year," Schillinger said.
Cleveland Pratt, who was the Fever's offensive coordinator in 2007 under coach Tony Wells, and Rik Richards, who most recently coached Rock River in the United Indoor Football League, also are being considered.
Schillinger expects to make a decision in the next two weeks.
-- Former Tri-Cities Fever receiver Phil Goodman was extradited to California on Tuesday for a probation violation warrant after spending 25 days in the Benton County jail.
-- Former Pasco High and Spokane Shock standout Raul Vijil was named to the af2's National Conference first team. In 14 games, Vijil caught 107 passes for 1,112 yards and 35 touchdowns.