By: Luke Matheson
The Sheridan Yellowjackets have their man.
Former Pulaski Academy head coach Kevin Kelley was hired with a unanimous vote by the Sheridan School Board at Monday night’s school board meeting.
Kelley, who compiled a 216-29-1 record with nine state titles in 18 seasons at Pulaski Academy, takes over the Yellowjackets program after Tyler Turner resigned to return to Tennessee after just one season at Sheridan.
He has gained national attention for his fourth-down no-punt strategy and has received accolades by coaches at all levels of football.
“Kevin Kelley is probably the top high school coach in the country,” New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick once told the Boston Herald. “I’ve followed him. He’s a little unconventional, but he’s had great success. He’s had a lot of NFL talent come through (Pulaski Academy). We’ve had a couple other ones here. I have a great respect for Coach Kelley and the program he runs, and some of the creative things that he does.”
Kelley also spent one year in the college ranks at Presbyterian College, where he resigned after one year with a 2-9 record. He also spent time working with Belichick on the New England Patriots staff. Additionally, he is a member of the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame.
Kelley will bring one assistant with him that DeltaplexNews.com is aware of.
Adam DePriest, a long-time friend and former assistant coach for Kelley, is slated to be a part of the Yellowjackets coaching staff. DePriest has served as offensive coordinator at Pulaski Academy, Shiloh Christian, Harrison, and most recently, Sylvan Hills.
DeltaplexNews.com will have more information on this hire soon!
