Grants Pass High School has named longtime educator and coach Matt Kennedy as the new head varsity football coach for the Cavemen, marking a significant change in the program’s leadership.
Kennedy, a social studies teacher at Grants Pass High School, has been an integral part of the school community for over a decade. Over the past 11 years, he has contributed in various coaching capacities, including serving as the defensive coordinator, offensive coordinator, and freshman head coach for the Cavemen football team. His extensive coaching background spans 20 years, complemented by 17 years of classroom teaching, positioning him as a well-rounded leader for the program.
Before joining GPHS, Kennedy honed his coaching skills at another Josephine County high school from 2005 to 2012. In addition to his work with football, he has also coached track and girls’ basketball, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to developing student-athletes across multiple sports.
In a statement regarding his new role, Kennedy emphasized his commitment to the holistic development of his players. “Caveman Football is about more than the game; it’s about developing young people into the best versions of themselves,” he said. “Our mission is simple: every player who comes through this program will leave better than before. We will cultivate a culture of discipline, respect, humility, and relentless effort, both on and off the field. I am honored to take on this role and continue the tradition of excellence that makes Caveman Football a point of pride for our school and community.”
Kennedy’s appointment comes after Brad Page, who led the program for the past three seasons. The transition is expected to bring renewed energy and fresh perspectives to the team as Kennedy begins assembling his coaching staff this spring. He has already initiated meetings with current players to outline his vision for the program’s future.
The decision to promote Kennedy is seen as a strategic move to build on the legacy of Caveman Football while addressing the evolving challenges of high school athletics. With his comprehensive experience in both coaching and education, Kennedy is anticipated to lead the program with a focus on discipline, personal development, and competitive success.