Kevin Pettis removed as Chiles head football coach after seven seasons at the helm

Leon County Schools District released a statement that Pettis had been removed as the Timberwolves head coach

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA- After seven seasons at Chiles High School, Kevin Pettis is out as the head football coach. 

It wasn’t on Pettis’ terms, however, or because of anything to do with the wins and losses on the field. 

On Wednesday morning, Leon County Schools District released a statement on Pettis being removed as head coach and will be reassigned. Below is the statement from the school district. 

“Following the conclusion of an independent investigation, coach Kevin Pettis has been removed as the head football coach at Chiles High School and will be reassigned. As required, the investigation’s findings are I’ll be forwarded to the Florida High School Athletic Association for review. Additionally, the district can confirm that Chiles Assistant Football Coach Trey Pettis was placed on administrative leave Wednesday, June 8 pending a review of school board policy. The independent investigation was completed by Sniffen and Spellman, P.A. Documents related to this case will be released in accordance with school board policy.” 

According to the report by WTXL ABC 27, Pettis pointed out Leon County Schools District superintendent Rocky Hanna in that he handled his case along with a previous case against principal Joseph Burgess in 2021, differently than any other in the county. 

“I fell that this was a targeted narrative against myself and Chiles High, similar to the investigation against Principal (Joseph) Burgess in 2021,” Pettis said to WTXL ABC 27. “Rocky and the district have handled my case and Mr. Burgess’ previous case different from any other disciplinary matters in the County. I’m so not agree with Rocky’s decision and I am looking into my options and next steps.” 

John Hernandez has been tabbed as the football team’s interim head coach as a result of Pettis’ removal and the school has begun an immediate search for a new lead man. 

Pettis, who had been on paid administrative leave since April 19, served as the head coach since 2017 and through seven seasons compiled a record of 32-38 and previously coached at Sebastian River. The Timberwolves last made the playoffs in 2019, losing to Niceville. Chiles went 5-5 in 2022. 

Andy Villamarzo can be reached at andyvillamarzo@gmail.com and follow him on Twitter @Andy_Villamarzo.