Anna Newhoff
NCR Reporter
Surrounded by parents, players, and community members, Hilliard Middle-Senior High School’s new varsity football coach introduced himself to the community Nov. 20.
Former HMSHS Assistant Coach Will Dyal was named head coach after former coach Matt Yancey resigned from the position. Dyal is the middle school athletic director and the in-school suspension teacher for HMSHS.
Originally from a small town in Missouri, Dyal and his family moved to Hilliard a year and a half ago.
“Life for us in Hilliard is very similar to how we grew up, and I believe that is why Hilliard is such a special place for us and one we are happy to call home,” he said.
While Dyal has only coached two seasons at HMSHS, he has been coaching football for nearly two decades.
“The upcoming season will be my 17th year in coaching,” he said. “My wife and I have been blessed to work in some fantastic schools and football programs in the State of Missouri.”
Dyal is motivated for his new position and the football season ahead.
“Becoming head coach gives me and my family the ability to pour into the lives of the athletes in our school, give back to the community, and lead the football program that means so much to the people of Hilliard,” he said. “I look forward to leading this program and our young men. Hilliard has a tradition of toughness and competitiveness that Coach (Paul) Whittenburg established many years ago. My goal as head coach is to re-establish that tradition and make our community proud of the product they see on the field.”
The school also prepares for a major facelift with a brand-new football field set to be finished by next football season. HMSHS Athletic Director Jason Collins said the construction will begin this spring.
HMSHS has high hopes for next season and all the new opportunities ahead for the Flashes.