In Palm Beach, Florida, a new chapter is set to begin for the Benjamin Buccaneers as Eric Kresser has officially stepped down from his role as head coach. After seven years leading the team, Kresser informed Athletic Director Ryan Smith of his decision, marking the end of his successful tenure.
Kresser took over as head coach in 2018, replacing long-time coach Ron Ream, who had held the position for 37 years. Before that, Kresser was the team’s offensive coordinator and had a notable playing career at Marshall University and the University of Florida. During his time with the Buccaneers, Kresser achieved a head coaching record of 45-28. His final season with the team ended with a 5-6 record, placing the Buccaneers 95th in the On3 Florida Composite Team Rankings.
Despite the challenges, Kresser’s coaching efforts produced four seasons with at least eight wins and led the Buccaneers to five appearances in regional semifinals. A highlight of Kresser’s career came in 2021 when Benjamin High School reached the Florida high school football regional finals.
Under Kresser’s guidance, several players advanced to play at the collegiate level, including Jordan Travis and Amaree Williams, who are currently playing at Florida State. Kresser also mentored Kaiir Elam, now with the Buffalo Bills, and influenced the college paths of Preston Douglas (North Carolina State), Landon Rapkiewicz (Florida Atlantic), and Josh Smith (Army).
Kresser’s roots trace back to Cincinnati, but his high school football career was highlighted at Palm Beach Gardens. He began his college football journey at Florida under Steve Spurrier and later transferred to Marshall, where he celebrated a Southern Conference Championship and participated in the NCAA Division I-AA State Championship alongside future NFL legend Randy Moss. Although Kresser went undrafted in the 1997 NFL Draft, he signed with the Cincinnati Bengals, where he played for three years, and later spent time with the NFL Europe’s Berlin Thunder and the Montreal Alouettes in the Canadian Football League.
As Benjamin High School looks to find its next head coach, Kresser leaves behind a legacy that has positively shaped many young athletes and contributed to the local football community.
