News Summary

Niceville High School is in search of a new head football coach following the resignation of Grant Thompson. Seven finalists have emerged from nearly 70 applications, each with impressive accomplishments. The NHS Steering Committee is poised to make a decision by the April 14 School Board meeting, aiming to find the right leader to carry on the Eagles’ strong legacy.

Seven Finalists Emerge for Niceville High School Football Coaching Position

Niceville is buzzing with excitement as the search for a new head football coach at Niceville High School heats up! Following the resignation of Grant Thompson on March 5, who wrapped up an impressive six-year run with a jaw-dropping 64-10 record, the school is moving quickly to find the perfect fit to lead the Eagles into the future.

Thompson, known for steering the Eagles to two Final Four appearances and the Class 5A state semifinals in 2024, left a remarkable legacy that will be tough to match. The NHS Steering Committee has been working diligently this week, interviewing potential candidates after reviewing a staggering nearly 70 applications from across the country.

After careful consideration, seven finalists have emerged, each bringing their own unique experiences and accolades. Let’s break down these contenders for the coveted head coach position at Niceville High School:

1. Fox

Fox recently made headlines leading Pontiac Notre Dame Prep to its first-ever MHSAA Division 5 state championship in 2024. His talent has not gone unnoticed, as he was named both the MHSFCA State of Michigan Coach of the Year and the Detroit Free Press Coach of the Year. With a career coaching record of 239-140 and multiple regional coach of the year awards to his name, he has proven to be a force on the field.

2. Morgan

Morgan has had a phenomenal coaching career, having guided Marietta High School to a state title in 2019 and Oscar Smith High School to two more championships. With a solid career record of 224 wins, he boasts an impressive winning percentage of .716. Under his leadership, teams have reached eight Final Fours, and he has played a pivotal role in developing 185 college football players and seven NFL stars!

3. Paradiso

Currently helming Tohopekaliga High School in Kissimmee, Florida, Paradiso has quite the resume. Having previous head coaching roles at Lake Nona, Cypress Creek, and Crystal River, he has earned the 3A and 5A State Coach of the Year Awards and has coached seven NCAA Division I quarterbacks. This wealth of experience could be invaluable for the Eagles.

4. Ramsay

Ramsay is currently leading the team at Andrew Jackson High School in Jacksonville and has past coaching experiences at both Mandarin High School and Yulee High School. He guided Mandarin to an 8A state championship in 2018 and gained accolades as the Florida Dairy Farmer’s Coach of the Year that same year. With a proven record of 104-71, he has received recognition as FACA 4A District Coach of the Year multiple times.

5. Robinson

A true local hero, Robinson is a proud alumnus of Niceville High School, playing a role in bringing home the football program’s only state title back in 1988. With various coaching roles since 2010, focusing on running backs and recruiting, he has cemented his place in the team’s history. His recognition as the Mickey Andrews Assistant Coach of the Year in 2021 showcases his dedication and skill in developing young athletes.

6. Tygard

Tygard currently leads Cleveland High School in Tennessee, boasting over 20 years of coaching experience across multiple levels, including NCAA. His history of serving as an assistant coach under highly regarded coaches at the University of Tennessee speaks volumes about his expertise in the game of football.

7. White

White is presently the head coach at Westmoore High School in Moore, Oklahoma, but his coaching journey spans across several states. With experience at Jackson Hole High School in Wyoming, Blue Springs High School in Missouri, and even coaching at the collegiate levels at the University of Oklahoma and the University of Nevada, he comes packed with knowledge and a network of influence.

According to Niceville Principal Charlie Marello, this year’s applicant pool is more connected to the college level than ever before. After the interviews wrap up, the school plans to make a recommendation for the new head coach during the April 14 School Board meeting. There’s no doubt that the future is bright for Niceville High School football!

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