The newest chapter of Jackson Prep Patriot football began on Tuesday, March 23, with the announcement of Tyler Turner as the program’s newest head coach. Turner will continue on the path paved by the uber-successful Ricky Black, who ended his storied stay at Jackson Prep in February.

Rather than simply filling shoes, he is expected to bring a change in style, flipping the page from Coach Black’s iconic straw hat and spray-painted Nike Monarchs to Turner’s markedly different ballcap and Dri-Fit t-shirt.

Turner carries a self-described “aggressive” coaching style, a youthful approach to offensive explosiveness, and a propensity for re-kindling fires at downtrodden programs. 

At Prep, however, he will not be charged with inspiring a new flame of success, but to continue a succesful legacy that included a streak of seven State Championships in a row. According to Athletic Director Will Crosby, “We were looking for someone who could continue our great tradition but bring their own energy and style. Obviously, such a tradition makes it a tough position to step into, but we know he is the one for the job.”

Thankfully, Turner has never shied away from expectations, amassing an impressive 67 wins and 15 losses in his young coaching career. These numbers especially shine when seen in context: he achieved a 12-2 record in one of Mississippi’s most competitive divisions at Olive Branch high school, turning around a program that had gone winless just a year prior. His path has also included stops at Liberty Technology Magnet High School and Goodpasture Christian School, firmly marking his place in a wave of young, successful head coaches.

Despite serving as a defensive coordinator near the beginning of his career, Turner’s teams have become known for their high-flying offenses, outscoring opponents by a total of 264 points in his three years at Olive Branch High School. Crosby pointed out that “part of Coach Turner’s appeal is that he has been an offensive and defensive coach; something very impressive for his young age.” In addition, he has developed a number of college athletes, shown by the thirteen players he has shipped to Division I programs. His dynamic presence will be important for the Patriots to return to the top of the rapidly transforming MAIS division. With more and more high-level football recruits coming out of central Mississippi private schools, the competition level is steadily rising each year.

So, when does Turner’s work begin? The new head coach met with the team earlier this week, introducing himself first to his players and next to the Prep community in a press conference Thursday morning.

As Turner’s wife Amanda and two children acclimate to the Prep family, he will begin his time as head coach April 1, marking the first time a new coach has led the Patriots in an astounding 24 years.

Note: The print version of this story incorrectly attributed authorship.