is there a better time to bring a new coach? none of the players will transfer and he will be working w mature experienced players.
it prob depends on how good a recruiter/big a name the incoming coach is. if he's a name or has some great contacts, it might be better to have a number of open 'ships to fill that spring, taking advantage of that new coach buzz.
but if he's not, then i think you're probably right. decent set up for at least mild improvement/good press and the coach has a full year to sell a foundation class with a number of 'ships.