In a significant shift within Louisiana high school football, Dennis Skains, who led the Cecilia Bulldogs to their first state championship in nearly three decades, has accepted a new role as an assistant coach at East Ascension. This transition comes just months after the Bulldogs' thrilling victory over Franklinton, securing the 2024 Division II Non-Select State Championship. Skains informed his team of this decision on Thursday afternoon, marking the end of a nine-year tenure that saw remarkable success and transformation for the Bulldogs.
Skains' journey with the Bulldogs was nothing short of extraordinary. Since returning to the Acadiana area in 2016, he has consistently delivered outstanding results. Over nine seasons, Skains accumulated an impressive overall record of 71 wins against 39 losses. His leadership propelled the Bulldogs to consecutive championship appearances, culminating in the historic 2024 title win. Each season under his guidance resulted in playoff berths, ensuring sustained excellence.
During his tenure, Skains not only transformed the Bulldogs into champions but also instilled a culture of resilience and determination. The 2024 championship victory was a testament to his strategic acumen and unwavering commitment to the team. Under his watch, players developed both on and off the field, setting new benchmarks for future generations. The Bulldogs' success story is one of relentless effort and strategic foresight, attributes that have become synonymous with Skains' coaching style.
The move to East Ascension signals a fresh start for Skains, where he will contribute his wealth of experience as an assistant coach. This transition reflects his desire to continue making impactful contributions to high school football. While the specifics of his new role remain undisclosed, it is clear that Skains brings a proven track record of success and a deep understanding of what it takes to build a winning program.
East Ascension stands to benefit immensely from Skains' expertise. His ability to foster team unity and develop players' skills will likely play a crucial role in enhancing the program's performance. For Skains, this move represents an opportunity to apply his knowledge in a different context, potentially leading to new achievements. As he embarks on this next chapter, the lessons learned and victories achieved during his time with the Bulldogs will undoubtedly shape his approach at East Ascension.