ST. GEORGE – An era is about to end for Dixie State Football. Coach Scott Brumfield has announced his resignation from Dixie State, but also his retirement from coaching.
“It was the right time for me,” said Brumfield. “I don’t have any immediate plans but I want to devote more time to my family. They have sacrificed more than anyone.”
Brumfield started at Dixie State as an assistant to Greg Croshaw, who he also played for at Dixie.
“Initially, I planned to be here one or two years to help in the transition from junior college to Division II,” said Brumfield. “At the same time I was diagnosed with cancer. So I was juggling coaching with chemotherapy treatments. It was a rough time for our family.”
The former NFL player ended up staying with Coach Ron Haun the following year, and when Haun retired, Brumfield took over the team.
“We were handcuffed somewhat at the beginning,” said Brumfield. “We had a few things, but lacked a few things. And the lack clearly put us at a big disadvantage competing with other Division II schools.”
Brumfield went to Dixie State University President Richard B. Williams at the end of last year and lobbied for increased budget for coaching and recruiting.
“President Williams stepped up,” said Brumfield. “That is another reason I felt it was a good time to hand over the reins. The university supported the team this year and will hopefully continue to support the team so it can improve and be competitive.”
When asked about the timing of the announcement Brumfield said, “I had decided prior to the Humboldt State game (Nov. 7), but I asked the administration to wait until after the game because it was senior night and I did not want to take away the attention that our seniors deserved on Saturday night.
“I love Dixie State. I have loved coaching these young men. I am thankful for the great fans and boosters here. I am a proud alumnus and I will continue to support Dixie State in the future.”
In a press release, DSU athletic director Jason Boothe said Brumfield’s efforts at Dixie State is immeasurable.
“We will be forever indebted to Scott for his service to Dixie State over the past six football seasons,” Boothe said. “Scott’s true impact on this program cannot be measured by wins and losses. He took over the program six years ago when it was several years away from beginning to be funded properly to sustain long-term success. He didn’t complain or come up with excuses. He kept fighting and working his tail off in order to put the best product on the field, in the classroom, and in the community. Thanks to Scott’s tireless efforts, the next head coach will come into a program that still has some work to do to take the next step, but is now on solid ground to do so.”
Brumfield will coach the last game of the season this Saturday for the 3-6 Red Storm. A timetable has not been released in the search for Brumfield’s replacement, though defensive coordinator Shay McClure and offensive coordinator Blaine Monkres will likely be leading candidates for the position.
DSU leaves the Great Northwest Athletic Conference after this season and will become a full-fledged member of the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference in 2016.
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