By Angie Ledbetter

Houston Ealy returns to coach at South Panola High School after a one-year stint as head coach of J. J. McClain.

Ealy coached two years at Pope before he left.

“Coaching at J. J. McClain was a good experience for me,” said Ealy. “I got a lot of exposure, won eight games, had some good coaches around me and was able to grow as a coach overall. It helped me tremendously in my development as a coach.”

Ealy not only won eight games but took the team to the playoffs.

“We got eliminated in the first round by Mooreville and from what I understand that was the first home playoff game Mooreville has ever hosted.”

Ealy returned to the school district but this time as an assistant coach for the varsity team. He will be coaching the tight ends and fullbacks which was vacated when Eric Rice left.

“I never really thought about coming back here but was very excited when (head coach Lance) Pogue called me asking if I was interested in coming back. I thought it was a great idea and I jumped at it.”

As far as coaching fullbacks and tight ends, Ealy thinks he’s going to enjoy it.

“It’s going to make me a multi-tasking coach, give me more knowledge and make me an all-around better coach from what I am and what I was doing. It’ll make you better off when you do become a head coach.”

Ealy’s first day on the field was Wednesday.

“I was very excited to be back on the field with Pogue and those guys and I’m looking forward to the season. I’m glad to be part of a program that does things the right way and I believe in football as a resource.”

“He’s an outstanding coach who is a great role model for the kids at South Panola and is an excellent addition to our coaching staff,” said Pogue. “He also did a super job when he was coaching at Pope. He did a quality job at J.J. McClain taking them 8-4 and a playoff appearance.”

Ealy will be teaching physical education at the high school.