Newton Daily News is proud to announce today that sports writer Shane Lucas has been promoted to sports editor effective immediately.

“Over the last several weeks, Shane has exhibited the skills and leadership necessary to earn the title of sports editor,” Daily News editor Bob Eschliman said. “With his help, I know we will continue our push to improve and expand our local sports coverage.”

Lucas started working for the Daily News in June of 2011. The native of Roscoe, Ill., had graduated from Iowa State University in May of 2010, and he had spent the following summer as an intern with the Boone News-Republican.