Beechwood Football Welcomes New Head Coach, Sets Sights on State Championship
In a surprising turn of events, Beechwood football coach Noel Rash announced his retirement after 17 years and eight state championships. The announcement sent shockwaves through the Northern Kentucky football community. However, the program wasted no time in finding a replacement, introducing Jay Volker as their new head coach a month later.
Volker, who previously served as the head coach at Talawanda, is excited to take on the challenge of leading a program with such a storied history of success. You take over a program that’s won a state championship six out of the last seven years, you definitely have your work cut out for you, Volker said. He has quickly endeared himself to his players by bringing a big brother-like energy and setting high standards both on and off the field.
While Beechwood has undergone several changes, including the installation of a new turf field and the addition of five new divisional opponents in Class 2A, one thing remains unchanged: the expectations for a state championship. The team has set its sights on maintaining the high standard and success they have achieved in recent years.
For Volker, who has a defensive background from his previous coaching positions, maintaining the team’s defensive prowess will be crucial. The Tigers allowed an average of just 7.8 points per game in 2022 and won games by an average margin of victory of 36.4 points. With the loss of several offensive playmakers from last year’s team, Volker recognizes the importance of leaning on the defense while also making the game plan his own.
Key playmakers for Beechwood this season include junior quarterback Clay Hayden, who possesses both accuracy and arm strength, and senior Xavier Campbell, who led the team with 11 sacks in 2022. The secondary, featuring players like James Cusick, Luke Erdman, and Shawn Sowder, also has the potential to make some highlight-reel plays.
Although the team only has nine seniors this year, Volker is focused on building the program’s future. He is particularly excited about a group of 28 freshmen who show promise and could make an impact as varsity starters in the coming years.
As a small school, Beechwood may not have the largest team in the state, but they aim to be the fastest, toughest, and best. With their sights set on a state championship, the Tigers are ready to embrace the challenges that lie ahead.
Beechwood’s season kicks off with an away game against McNicholas, followed by matches against Campbell County and Dixie Heights on the road. The fourth week will mark Volker’s home debut as head coach when the team faces Simon Kenton.
With a new coach at the helm and a roster filled with talented players, Beechwood Football is poised for another successful season. The expectations are high, but the team is ready to rise to the occasion and continue their quest for a state championship.
