Southern Utah Football is gearing up for its transition to the Big Sky Conference with significant staffing changes aimed at enhancing competitiveness. The Thunderbirds have brought in three veteran coaches鈥擩arrell Harrison, Ron Hudson, and Josh Runda鈥攚hile promoting existing staff members Jack Nelson and Scott Fahey. These changes focus on enriching player development and maintaining a strong program culture in preparation for the 2026 season. Head Coach DeLane Fitzgerald emphasized the importance of experience and alignment with team values in their hiring process.

By the Numbers
  • Jarrell Harrison has nearly a decade of coaching experience, including four years as head coach at Adams State.
  • Ron Hudson has over 30 years of coaching experience, including successful tenures at Georgia Southern and Penn State.
State of Play
  • The Thunderbirds are elevating their coaching staff ahead of their move to the Big Sky Conference.
  • Jarrell Harrison will lead defensive development, while Ron Hudson focuses on the offensive line and running game strategies.
What's Next

The newly restructured coaching staff will begin their preparations for the upcoming season, focusing on integrating new strategies and player development techniques. The team's performance in the transition year will be crucial for establishing competitive footing in the Big Sky Conference.

Bottom Line

With a combination of seasoned coaches and internal promotions, Southern Utah Football is strategically positioning itself for immediate competitiveness in the Big Sky, promising an exciting evolution for both the team and its supporters.