News Summary

Frank Parisi has been promoted to head coach of the Champlain Valley Union (CVU) football program following the departure of Rahn Fleming. With a successful past under Fleming, Parisi aims to build on this legacy despite facing a significant rebuilding phase due to numerous graduating seniors. As he prepares for the upcoming season, he will receive mentorship from Fleming, ensuring continuity in the program. Anticipation is high, especially for Parisi’s first game against Rutland, where he will face his former coach.

Exciting New Chapter for Champlain Valley Union Football as Frank Parisi Takes the Helm

The picturesque town of Hinesburg, known for its breathtaking landscapes and close-knit community, is set to witness an exciting new era in high school football with the promotion of Frank Parisi to head coach of the Champlain Valley Union (CVU) football program. This move comes on the heels of a remarkable six-year run under coach Rahn Fleming, who decided to step down in January 2024 due to personal health issues and family commitments.

A Legacy of Success

During Fleming’s tenure, CVU turned into a powerhouse, boasting an impressive record of 36 wins and 6 losses. Under his leadership, the team clinched two coveted Division I titles, etching their name into the history books with unforgettable victories that lit up the hearts of local fans. And now, with Parisi stepping up from his role as the team’s defensive coordinator, fans are buzzing with excitement to see how he will build on this successful foundation.

Stepping into Big Shoes

Parisi, a proud 1995 graduate of Rutland High School, has been an integral part of CVU’s coaching staff for several seasons. Having previously coached both offensive and defensive lines at various levels, he’ll bring a wealth of experience to his new role. Having spent the last two years as the defensive coordinator, he played a crucial role in transforming the team’s defensive strategy from a well-known 4-3 formation to a more dynamic 3-4 setup that proved highly effective on the field.

Building on a Strong Foundation

With the Redhawks clinching their first championship in 2022 and capping off the historic 2024 season with an astonishing 462 points scored and just 62 points allowed during an unbeaten 11-0 run, expectations will be high for Parisi. Understandably, he’s eager to maintain the positive culture and developmental ethos that has become the hallmark of CVU football over recent seasons. He is already working to fill the vacancy left by Fleming and has expressed enthusiasm for bringing in a CVU assistant to join his coaching staff. While he aims to keep most of the existing coaching team intact, one assistant won’t be back due to work obligations—a common challenge in the world of high school sports.

Facing New Challenges

This upcoming season presents its own set of challenges, as the team gears up for a significant rebuilding phase. With a whopping 21 seniors graduating, and potentially more players leaving for prep schools, it will be crucial for Parisi to harness the incoming talent effectively. While the prospect of fielding a younger team can seem daunting, the energy and fresh dynamics brought by new players could also lead to unexpected breakthroughs.

A Mentor in the Wings

Even with the weight of heading up a successful program, Parisi will not be navigating this journey alone. He has the full support of Fleming, who, while stepping back from coaching duties, will still be around to guide Parisi and assist in the weight room as a teacher. This mentorship assures fans that the relationship won’t end but rather evolve into a supportive dynamic that could greatly benefit the team.

Mark Your Calendars

As anticipation builds for the upcoming fall season, Parisi’s first game as head coach is already creating a buzz. He’ll be facing off against Rutland, where he will meet none other than his former coach, Mike Norman. It’s bound to be an exhilarating reunion filled with nostalgia and a fierce competitive spirit that will surely rev up the fan base.

This new chapter for the CVU football program has all the ingredients for excitement, growth, and community support. As Frank Parisi takes the lead, the town of Hinesburg will undoubtedly watch proudly as their Redhawks soar to new heights on the field!

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