Shelley football seeks stability under fourth coach in four years

SHELLEY, Idaho (KIFI) — The Shelley High School football team is entering the season under interim head coach Mike Messick, marking the program's fourth head coach in four years. The Russets, who have won six state titles since 2000, are working to restore stability and consistency to their program.


Messick took over late in the offseason, bringing a familiar presence to a senior class that has learned a new system almost every year. He previously coached many of the current seniors during their freshman and sophomore seasons.


Interim Head Coach Messick is focusing on foundational improvements to help the team regain its footing. Messick and the coaching staff are emphasizing player strengths and streamlining performance on the field.

“We wanted to just make sure that we were instilling, mental and physical toughness,” Messick said. “We wanted to simplify some of the scheme a little bit times and to make sure that we can take advantage of, of our kids skill sets.”

Messick commended the senior class for remaining committed to the football program despite frequent leadership turnover. He highlighted the importance of establishing a winning mindset before game action begins.

“I think they're very resilient group,” Messick said. “I mean, like I said, having having somebody leave is is a tough thing and a hard thing. And, for the fact that they came back out and just stuck with it, that's a great, great deal.”

Messick added that team culture remains central to their goals this fall.

“I think it's just, it's an attitude,” Messick said. “Right. And so you get on the field, if you can be seven points ahead with your attitude, that's that's a positive thing. And just learning that you can believe and that's okay. And that's what it takes to be able to win.”

For the senior players, this season is focused on building trust, fostering positivity and setting a sustainable precedent for lower grades following last year's struggles.


Shelley is scheduled to open its season in a zero-week game against conference rival Blackfoot.