Three area schools to debut with new coaches

FRUITLAND

Change has taken over most of the high school football teams in San Juan county.

Many local teams have seen changes within their coaching staff and on their rosters. For many – it’s a good thing.

Here’s a look at what prep football coaches are working with this season and some of the changes they’ve had to adjust to.

In District 1-3A, the Newcomb High School Skyhawks are under the new leadership of head football coach Shawn Miller.

Not only did Miller take over the football program, but he is also the new athletic director. He was an assistant last season to former head coach Adam Archibeque, who resigned last year.

“I’m really excited to be leading this program,” he said. “Trying to make a difference, that’s one of the great responsibilities that we have as coaches and educators. I have a passion to coach…I’m very fortunate to be where I’m at.”

In Class 4A, the Shiprock Chieftains welcomed their third new coach in the last three seasons. Eric Stovall has taken over the program after coaching for a total of 16 years within the Four Corners area. Stovall said he coached at Heights Middle School in Farmington before returning to the high school level.

“I’ve always had a lot of respect and admiration for kids at Shiprock High; their heart and desire, dedication to get better,” he said.

Shiprock brings back senior Arjay Miller in the quarterback position and Zander Dale in center. Stovall said he’s looking to the two of them to lead the team. He said tightend Steve Lara and wide receiver Brandon Lapahe will also be key contributors for the team.

Stovall said the team plans to focus on its cohesiveness and role as community members and students. “The first objective is to be the student-athlete role model in the community, and first and foremost in the classroom,” Stovall said. “We have something called the Chieftain Brotherhood, it’s the concept of family playing for each other.”

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