Dr. Matthew Wendt, Superintendent of Schools, has accepted the resignation of Fayetteville High School’s Head Football Coach Bill Blankenship. Blankenship will relocate to the Tulsa area to accept a head coaching position, and that school district’s board of education is set to approve his employment this Friday.
“Bill Blankenship has been an asset to our high school’s football program. His integrity, experience, and leadership have been appreciated,” said Dr. Wendt. “We understand the decision to return to his hometown area is based on a desire to be close to family, and to be able to continue coaching at the high school level. Bill was the right choice at a challenging time for our football program.”
Blankenship, who most recently led the FHS Bulldogs to their fifth state championship win, was also named 2016 Arkansas 7A Football Coach of the Year. Under his leadership, the Bulldogs finished the season 12-1.
“This past season has been a blessing for my wife, Angie, and for me. We were welcomed with open arms by the school, the faculty and the Fayetteville community,” said Blankenship. “And, we have had such a special relationship with our players and the coaching staff. Everyone in the district, especially Athletic Director Steve Janski and Dr. Matthew Wendt, made this seem like a destination job for us.”
Blankenship continued, “Over the holidays we became especially aware of how much we have missed being near our kids and grandkids. This decision to return to the Tulsa area was hard, but the right thing for our family.”
“Coach Blankenship’s wealth of experience at the high school and collegiate level were the perfect fit for our program during a time of transition,” said Athletic Director Steve Janski. “His time here in Fayetteville benefited our students, district, and community.”
“The school district will begin a search for a head football coach immediately,” said Dr. Wendt. “Because the media in Tulsa has opted to release this information, FPS felt it important to provide this communication tonight. I know Coach Blankenship would have preferred to speak personally with players, staff and parents before this was made public. Athletic Director Janski and the school district will provide more information at a later time.”