In a significant move for the Mesa Jackrabbits football program, Athletic Director David Klecka has announced the hiring of Jeremy Hathcock as the new head coach. Pending approval from the Mesa Public Schools’ governing board, Hathcock is set to take over the helm after a successful stint at Buckeye Verrado High School. Last year, Hathcock revitalized Verrado’s football team, leading them to a 10-3 record and nearly reaching the state championship. His appointment marks a return to the East Valley, where he previously coached at Mesa Desert Ridge for 15 years, achieving remarkable success including two appearances in the 6A state finals.

Hathcock's journey back to Mesa is driven by his desire to be closer to family and to restore the Jackrabbits' football tradition. He expressed enthusiasm about the potential of the Mesa players and the strong community support. The school boasts a rich history of football excellence, having won four AIA state titles, with the most recent championship in 2009. Despite recent challenges, Hathcock believes that with hard work and dedication, the Jackrabbits can quickly return to their former glory.

During his time at Verrado, Hathcock not only transformed the team's performance but also earned recognition as a top contender for Coach of the Year. The Vipers’ turnaround under his leadership was nothing short of impressive, especially considering they had struggled with a 3-7 record the previous year. Hathcock’s strategic vision and coaching prowess were evident in the team’s victories, culminating in a thrilling win against Goodyear Desert Edge in the final regular-season game.

The Mesa community is excited about Hathcock’s arrival. His experience and proven track record make him an ideal fit for the program. With a focus on building a tough and resilient team, Hathcock aims to create a winning culture at Mesa. He emphasized the importance of leveraging the school’s traditions and the community’s passion for sports. The future looks bright for the Jackrabbits, and fans are eager to see how Hathcock will lead the team to new heights.

Hathcock replaces Chad DeGrenier, who led the Jackrabbits to a modest 4-6 record last season. The transition comes at a crucial time as Mesa seeks to reclaim its status as a dominant force in Arizona high school football. With Hathcock’s expertise and the support of the community, the Jackrabbits are poised to make a significant impact in the competitive 6A division. Fans and players alike are optimistic about the direction the team is heading under Hathcock’s leadership.