The Kansas City Chiefs have announced this week’s Coach of the Week honors. The awards go to DeSoto’s Brian King and University Academy’s Ryan Heffley.
As a result of this honor, both schools will receive a $500 grant. Additionally, Heffley and King will be presented congratulatory footballs autographed by Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid and a certificate recognizing their selection along with a Gatorade kit. Each coach is now a finalist for their state’s Eric Driskell Chiefs Coach of the Year Award.
The 2017 High School Coach of the Week fueled by Gatorade program is a joint initiative of the Kansas City Chiefs and the National Football League. This program is designed to recognize and reward Kansas City area high school coaches for superior performance on a weekly basis. The Chiefs Coach of the Week award fueled by Gatorade is intended to honor individuals who are shaping today’s youth and tomorrow’s leaders.
DeSoto shutout Baldwin 42-0 to improve to 6-0 on the season. It was the Wildcats third shutout of the season. King said this award was an honor for the entire program.
“I am honored to accept this recognition on behalf of our team and coaching staff,” King said. “It has truly been the hard work of the players and assistant coaches that has earned this recognition for our school and community. It has been their commitment to our program, and willingness to work year-round, which has made this possible. I would not be able to accept this award without their efforts, and I am honored and humbled to be selected as Chiefs Coach of the Week.”
University Academy edged Van Horn 14-13 to improve to 6-2 on the season. The win also secured the first conference championship in school history. Before 2016 the Gryphons were an independent. Last season they moved into the Crossroads Conference and this year University Academy clinched the title with the win over Van Horn.
Heffley said this was great recognition of everything his team and assistants have accomplished.
“It's a great honor for our staff and players,” Heffley said. “We have a great staff and kids and it's nice for them to get recognition.”
