After a public outcry over the possible ouster of Oil City head football coach Bill Heber, the school district has reversed its position. The postings advertising an opening for the head Oil City football coaching position have been removed, and officials have talked to Heber about renewing his contract, superintendent Dr. Thomas Fortin said Jan. 13. “I found out Tuesday morning around 8:30 and was told that the job was mine,” Heber said late Tuesday afternoon. “They also apologized again for the way it was handled and assured me they would stand behind and support me.” The position was posted last week following a meeting of the board's co-curricular committee, and administrators reportedly told Heber he is a good coach but lacks communication skills. But after a crowd of Heber supporters turned out the Jan. 12 board meeting to sing Heber's praises, the board reconsidered the posting during an announced executive session to discuss personnel issues held at the end of the meeting. “They deliberated for a long time and decided to rescind the posting,” Fortin said.  “I want to thank everyone for coming out Monday night and supporting me,” Heber said. “It it wasn't for them, I probably wouldn't have the job (today).” The 35-year-old Heber, who began coaching at age 19, said his immediate goals are working with the players in the weight room “to get them bigger, stronger and faster.” The Oilers went 4-5 this past season after posting an 8-2 mark during the 2002 season, Heber's first as head coach. In all, Heber has coached for 16 years. Prior to being named head coach, Heber spent nine years as an assistant coach under Paul Stamm after serving for five years as an assistant under Dan Brown. “We want to put this all behind us and get back to business,” Heber said. Published 1.14.04 in The Derrick/The News-Herald