Damien lifted the interim tag on coach James Stewart by naming him the football program’s head coach Tuesday.

Stewart’s promotion to head coach was expected after Damien finished this season 8-3 and won the Baseline League title for the first time since 2010. The Spartans went 5-0 in league.

Damien lost to San Clemente 42-10 in the first round of the CIF Southern Section Division 2 playoffs, but Stewart had already proved enough by steadying the program under tough circumstances and thriving over the course of the season.

Naming Stewart is a stark contrast from Damien’s previous hires, however, where they went big-name hunting.

The Spartans’ previous three coaches, Greg Gano, Mark Paredes and Matt Bechtel, all came with extensive experience as a head coach and resumes that included CIF-SS championships.

Stewart was Damien’s defensive coordinator for two seasons under Bechtel before being thrust into the top spot when Bechtel abruptly resigned five weeks before the season began over differences with the school.

During the season Stewart never talked about possibly being promoted, saying he had too much to focus on week to week.

Stewart, who has 16 years of coaching experience at the college level, sounded grateful about the announcement Tuesday.

“I am truly honored and humbled to be named the head football coach at Damien High School,” Stewart said through a release. “This is a dream come true and a reflection of the collective effort of our players, coaching staff, and the incredible support from our school and community.

“This program has a rich tradition of excellence, and I am excited to continue building on that legacy. Together, we will strive to develop champions both on the field and in life. I look forward to continue working with our athletes, their families, and our entire community to take Damien football to new heights.”

Damien athletic director Jeff Grant noted that Stewart’s “commitment to the development of our student-athletes has been truly exceptional. His promotion to head coach is a natural progression, and we have full confidence that his vision for the program will continue to inspire success both on and off the field.”