Driver takes over as MVHS football coach
By Matt Gengler, Sports Editor
sports@missourivalleytimes.com
Jake Driver accepted the keys to the ignition of the Big Reds football machine last week, and he is ready to put his stamp on the program to get it re-ignited.
“Im incredibly honored and excited to introduce myself as the new football coach, physical education instructor and strength and conditioning coach,” stated Driver, via Facebook. “My wife and family are thrilled to join this community. I have spent my career helping student-athletes push their limits, and I’m bringing that same energy with me.”
Driver has 20-years of high school coaching experience, including leading teams to 10 state semifinals and five state championship appearances. He’s also had success on the wrestling mats, coaching three state champions and numerous state place winners.
“I am a first believer in the multi-sport athlete, and I want them to develop that translates to every sport,” Driver stated. “However, the ‘student’ always comes before athlete. I hold a high standard of expectations in the classroom. Excellence is a habit – If we’re not disciplined with our studies, we won’t reach our full potential. We are here to build well-rounded young men and women that will excel on the field, the court, the mat, and the classroom.”
Driver, a 1998 graduate of St. Albert, was the defensive coordinator for nine of those 13 years as an assistant for the Falcons. During that time, they made trips to the state championship game five times, winning titles in 2006, 2007 and 2009.
Driver, who replaces Dontea Allen on the Big Reds sidelines the last two seasons (0-17), takes over a struggling program. The last four seasons, MV has posted a 1-34 record, and this will be the third football coach since 2023.
Driver concluded, “I’m ready to hit the ground running, and can’t wait to meet the parents, players and fans that make Missouri Valley so special. I’m ready to go to work helping both the students and athletes accomplish their goals.”
