Vernon Smith resigns after one season as Yuma Catholic head coach

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Yuma Catholic High School announced Sunday that head football coach Vernon Smith has resigned after one season with the program.

Smith took over the Shamrocks during their transition into 5A football, leading the team through a demanding first-year schedule.

In a statement, the school praised Smith for his professionalism and the leadership he showed throughout the season.

"Vernon Smith resigned from his head coaching position and Yuma Catholic wishes him and his family all the best," the statement read. "Coach Smith did an outstanding job for us in our first year in 5A football and we wish him success in his future endeavors."

Yuma Catholic President Rhett Stallworth said the school will first evaluate internal candidates before opening the position publicly, adding, "We have some great people within our program. We will start there first. If that doesn't come to fruition, then we will open up the job. I would rather hire from within first."

The Shamrocks now begin their search for their next leader as they continue building their identity in Arizona’s 5A classification.