The North Fort Myers softball program has been placed in the capable hands of Keith Gibson, who was hired last week to replace Jeff Miner.

Miner, who stepped aside after eight years to pursue an opportunity at the college level, recommended Gibson as a suitable replacement, but North High athletic director Erik Timko said he interviewed three of the 10 applications he received.

“I think Keith understands the tradition of the program and will continue and build on it,” said Timko.

Gibson assisted Miner in the past and his daughter, Casey, pitched for the Red Knights a few years ago. Most recently, Gibson was the first head coach of the softball program at Ave Maria University. He resigned after the 2009-10 season.

Miner, a teacher at Hancock Creek Elementary, is in his fourth year of the school system’s drop program.

“It was a heartbreaking decision to leave the high school,” said Miner, “but I wanted to make a change. After five years in the drop program I would have had to look for employment.”

Instead, Miner will continue to teach at Hancock Creek through the 2011-12 school year and work as a volunteer assistant for FGCU softball coach Dave Deiros.

“He was gracious enough to allow me to volunteer,” said Miner. “I get to help him out and maybe in a couple of years it will help me out. I wanted to gain some experience at the college level in case I want to go in that direction.”

Miner has been in the Lee County school system for 34 years.

“I’m just looking to the future,” said Miner. “Whatever happens, happens.”

During Miner’s eight seasons as coach, the Red Knights won two district championships, one conference championship, tied for another conference title and won back-to-back LCAC Tournament titles.

“It was a great run,” Miner said. “They have several starting players coming back and some freshmen that likely will make them a very competitive team again.”