ULYSSES — Longtime Thomas More Prep-Marian athletic director and coach Gene Flax has joined the staff of Ulysses USD 214 as interim athletic director.

Flax will fill the position left vacant after the unexpected death of athletic director Jason Kenny, who died in July at age 47.

“Gene had reached out just offering his condolences,” said Ulysses Superintendent David Younger. “Him and Jason had worked together in their capacities, and he knew our high school principal.”

Flax offered his assistance and, after an effort to replace Kenney internally did not work out, the district reached out.

Younger said Flax interviewed Saturday, was appointed by the USD 214 Board of Education on Wednesday and arrived Wednesday night to “hit the ground running.”

Flax, who most recently served as AD at Russell, will serve as interim AD for one year, Younger said, with the search for a permanent replacement ongoing.

“Of course, Gene is well thought of throughout the state of Kansas in his role at TMP, a sterling reputation,” Younger said. “He was happy to help us out for the year.”

Flax joined the staff at TMP-Marian in 1996. In addition to being the school’s athletic director, he was the head football coach for 14 years guiding the Monarchs to the state playoffs twice. He also served an an assistant coach for the Kansas Shrine Bowl. Flax was also spent time as the Monarchs head track and field coach as well as an assistant. He also taught P.E., weightlifting as well as drivers’ education.