PEDRO — Adam Simpson can wake up now. He doesn’t have to dream any longer.

In a 5-0 vote Tuesday by the Rock Hill Board of Education, Simpson realized his dream when he was hired as the boys head basketball coach.

“This is the only job I’ve ever wanted. How many chances do you get to have your dream job?” Simpson said.

A former all-district and All-Ohio player for Rock Hill, Simpson served as an assistant coach for the Redmen under Rick Scarberry for seven seasons. Rock Hill won four sectional titles under Scarberry with Simpson as his assistant.

From the 2000-01 to the 2003-04 seasons, Simpson was the head coach at Ironton St. Joseph. His teams were 20-43 and he produced two first team All-Ohio players — Shawn Hacker and Bill Dressel.

“I’m a Rock Hill grad, so no one wants to see this program win more than me. It’s the only school I’ve ever taught at. No one wants to win more or produce some quality players and a quality program year in and year out,” Simpson said.

The late hiring leaves Simpson at somewhat of a disadvantage, but he plans to make the most of the situation.

“They’ve missed their summer, but we can still get some work done. We can still lift and have open gym,” Simpson said.

The Redmen will return four starters and some key players from last year’s team. However, All-Ohio guard K.C. Christian is gone and Simpson said he’ll have to evaluated the remaining players.

“I would love to get back to the running Redmen of old like Rick (Scarberry) had, but we’ll have to get in the gym and see what type of team we have. Talent always dictates the style,” Simpson said.

Simpson replaces Marty Mills whose contract was not renewed.