Wasilla head football coach steps down after three seasons

WASILLA — In 2016, Will Stout came to Wasilla from southern Texas, eager to create a new foundation for his young family and help re-build the Wasilla High School football program.

But after three seasons with the Warriors, Stout was forced to make what he called a tough decision. Stout has stepped down head coach of the Warriors football program. The decision came after Stout’s father underwent quintuple bypass surgery in October.

“It was pretty hard,” Stout said recently. “Ultimately, it’s family first.”

Stout said his family has suffered losses in the last year that have made it difficult for he and his wife and children to be so far away.

“Last summer, my uncle passed away. We were pretty close. I took that hard,” Stout said. “I talked to him one day, he’s gone the next.”

Stout said his wife’s grandmother also died last year. Stout said he needed to make this decision after his father’s surgery.

“I’m feeling pretty guilty having his grandkids up here. They don’t know him very well,” Stout said of his sons, ages 3 and 4. “I felt now is the time.”

Stout said he is happy he was able to see Wasilla’s current group of seniors complete their high school careers.

“We had a great group of kids,” Stout said.

Stout’s Warriors finished 3-6 in 2018, and enjoyed Wasilla’s best season since 2014. Wasilla advanced to the playoffs in each of Stout’s three seasons as head coach.

Stout lauded his time with the program.

“The community has been extremely supportive. We have a great booster club. The administration has been terrific, supporting me 100 percent,” Stout said. “I’m really appreciative.”

When he arrived prior to the 2016 season, Stout said he aimed to help re-create the culture of Wasilla football and help a program rebound from an 0-8 season the year before. On the field, Stout said there is a solid core of talent expected to return. Off the field, Stout, the booster club is in great shape financially.

“It’s set up for who ever decides to step in,” Stout said.

Stout said he is actively seeking a new job near family in Texas.

Contact Frontiersman editor Jeremiah Bartz at sports@frontiersman.com.