Jake Smith appointed head coach of Peoria Heights Patriots football team
Metamora graduate Jake Smith has taken over as head coach of the Peoria Heights Patriots, succeeding Kendal Parker.
Jake Smith, a Metamora High School alumnus, is now the head coach of the Peoria Heights Patriots football program, following the departure of Kendal Parker. Smith grew up around the team, serving as a ball boy during his father's 30-year tenure and later working as an assistant and offensive coordinator for six seasons. A fresh co-op agreement with Lowpoint-Washburn will let its students play for the Patriots this year.
Smith hopes to consistently field 30 players on game nights and restore the program to winning form after a 23-year drought. Returning starters such as lineman Crew Shaver, Eathan Brooks and Maddix Callister will anchor the squad. The Patriots open the season against Champaign St. Thomas More on Saturday.
Why it matters
Local fans get a new coach with deep ties to the team, aiming to revive a long-standing losing streak.
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