South Pontotoc hired its new head football coach from within.
Jonathan Beard will lead the Cougars next season after previously serving as the team’s offensive coordinator. Beard replaces Brandon Cutrer, who went 1-9 last year in his only season as South Pontotoc’s head coach.
“Pretty excited about it,” Beard said. “Been here for a year calling plays as the offensive coordinator and whatnot. Just excited about the opportunity I have moving forward as the head coach.”
Beard will be South Pontotoc’s third head coach in as many years. Having a familiar face as head coach will hopefully help Beard make the transition and minimize any instability.
“I think it’s really important,” Beard said. “I’ve already been here for a year and established relationships with these guys. I’ve been in Pontotoc County for about 11 years now, kind of just feels like home. It’s extremely important to have these good relationships with these guys and that established relationship. We can keep moving forward with what we’ve already established as a coaching staff from previous years.”
South Pontotoc started the year 1-3 before losing six straight games to end the season. The Cougars were outscored 327-65 in that span. Beard will be looking to turn things around this year.
“Just working hard,” Beard said. “We have bought into just really working our tails off and taking care of business and looking at things from different perspectives. Just kind of learning what it means to grind and have confidence in what we do and in each other I think has been a big focus for us this offseason. I think it’s working out so far. I think the kids have really bought into what we’re doing and what we’re preaching here. It’s been a really exciting offseason just to watch the kids grow and mature.”