The Greenwood School District has named Jason Gill as the new head football coach of the Bulldogs, promoting a longtime assistant with deep ties to one of Arkansas’ most successful programs.

Gill, who has been with the district since the 2013-14 school year, takes over after serving as defensive coordinator for nearly a decade. He replaces Chris Young, who recently transitioned into a new role as director of student activities and operations.

Gill began his tenure at Greenwood as the head junior high football coach, quickly building a winning program that captured back-to-back conference championships in his first two seasons. He was promoted to defensive coordinator in 2015 under then-head coach Rick Jones.

During his time on staff, Greenwood has been one of the state’s dominant programs, winning state championships in 2017 and 2018 under Jones. After Young became head coach in 2020, Gill remained defensive coordinator as the Bulldogs added state titles in 2020, 2023 and 2024, while also reaching the state championship game in six consecutive seasons.

Gill’s work was recognized in 2024 when he was named the Broyles Award Arkansas High School Assistant Coach of the Year.

Before joining Greenwood, Gill served as defensive coordinator at Rison, where he helped lead the program to state championships in 2000 and 2005. He later became head coach at Mansfield from 2006 to 2012, helping guide the program to its first conference championship in 2010.

“Jason has been instrumental to our success over the past 13 years,” Young said. “His loyalty to Greenwood and commitment to our student-athletes have been evident throughout his career. I look forward to supporting Jason and his staff, and I am excited to see the continued success of our program under his leadership.”

School officials said Gill’s experience, familiarity with the program and commitment to student-athletes made him a natural choice to lead the Bulldogs.

Gill is married to Kim Gill, the recently retired principal of Westwood Elementary School. The couple has two children, Gracen Hobbs, an eighth-grade English teacher at Greenwood Junior High, and Parker Gill, who was recently named defensive coordinator for the Greenwood Junior High football team. The family also includes one granddaughter, Charlotte Hobbs, who will turn one in May.

District officials said they are confident Gill will continue the tradition of success for Greenwood football as he steps into the head coaching role.

Batesville senior Dexter Chapman has rewritten the record books, breaking both the school and Arkansas state records for triples in a single season.

Chapman, a first baseman and outfielder for the Pioneers, surpassed the previous school record of eight triples and the state mark of nine. He currently has 11 triples this season, setting a new record at both levels.

Chapman’s performance has been a key part of Batesville’s success this season, showcasing his speed and ability to drive the ball into the gaps.

Following his high school career, Chapman is set to continue playing at the collegiate level. He has committed to Crowder College, where he will join the program next fall.

Rison junior pitcher Noah Matheson added another milestone to his growing list of accomplishments last week, setting a new school record with 17 strikeouts in a game against McGehee.

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The latest Arkansas Sports Media High School Baseball Poll has been released, showcasing the top teams across all six classifications as the regular season moves toward the postseason.

The rankings, voted on by a panel of sports media members from around the state, include records, points and previous week positioning.

Class 6A

1. Conway (9) — 18-2, 45 pts (Prev: 1)

2. Rogers — 16-2, 36 pts (Prev: 2)

3. Cabot — 13-4, 24 pts (Prev: 3)

4. Springdale Har-Ber — 15-6, 12 pts (Prev: 4)

5. Jonesboro — 15-6, 11 pts (Prev: 5)
   Others receiving votes: Bentonville 3, Bryant 2, LR Christian 2

Class 5A

1. Valley View (9) — 18-1, 45 pts (Prev: 1)

2. Greene County Tech — 21-1, 35 pts (Prev: 2)

3. Benton — 15-5, 22 pts (Prev: 3)

4. Greenwood — 15-5, 12 pts (Prev: 4)

5. Greenbrier — 13-7, 6 pts (Prev: 5)
   Others receiving votes: Mountain Home 4, Van Buren 3, Lake Hamilton 3, Maumelle 2, Sylvan Hills 1, Searcy 1, Hot Springs Lakeside 1

Class 4A

1. Pulaski Academy (6) — 18-3, 42 pts (Prev: 1)

2. Shiloh Christian (3) — 21-2, 38 pts (Prev: 2)

3. Joe T. Robinson — 15-6, 28 pts (Prev: 3)

4. Brookland — 19-6, 15 pts (Prev: 4)

5. Highland — 13-5, 7 pts (Prev: 5)
   Others receiving votes: Pea Ridge 3, Dardanelle 2

Class 3A

1. Haskell Harmony Grove (4) — 14-3, 38 pts (Prev: 2)

2. Walnut Ridge (5) — 14-3, 35 pts (Prev: 1)

3. Valley Springs — 20-2, 21 pts (Prev: 3)

4. Episcopal — 14-5, 19 pts (Prev: 4)
   5(tie). Dover — 15-6, 8 pts (Prev: 5)
   5(tie). Genoa Central — 11-6-1, 8 pts (Prev: NR)
   Others receiving votes: Smackover 5, Mansfield 1

Class 2A

1. Murfreesboro (8) — 18-2, 43 pts (Prev: 1)

2. South Side Bee Branch — 16-4, 24 pts (Prev: 2)

3. Woodlawn — 17-6, 19 pts (Prev: 4)

4. Riverside — 16-7, 17 pts (Prev: 3)

5. Conway Christian (1) — 11-3, 14 pts (Prev: T-5)
   Others receiving votes: McCrory 8, Spring Hill 6, Palestine-Wheatley 3, Life Way Christian 1

Class 1A

1. Conway St. Joseph (7) — 19-2, 43 pts (Prev: 1)

2. Taylor (2) — 13-6, 38 pts (Prev: 2)
   3(tie). West Side Greers Ferry — 10-6, 14 pts (Prev: 3)
   3(tie). Mount Ida — 10-4, 14 pts (Prev: 4)

3. Concord — 9-3, 10 pts (Prev: NR)
   Others receiving votes: Midland 9, Jasper 3, Bradley 2, Scranton 1, Armorel 1

The poll reflects games played through April 18 and will continue to be updated weekly as teams position themselves for postseason play across Arkansas.

The latest Arkansas Sports Media High School Softball Poll has been released, highlighting the top teams in each classification across the state as the season moves deeper into postseason contention.

The rankings, voted on by a panel of sports media members from around Arkansas, include records, points and previous week positioning.

Class 6A

1. Bryant (6) — 16-2, 34 pts (Prev: 1)

2. Bentonville (1) — 15-3, 27 pts (Prev: 2)

3. Springdale Har-Ber — 15-5, 17 pts (Prev: 3)

4. Conway — 14-4, 16 pts (Prev: 4)

5. Cabot — 13-4, 10 pts (Prev: 5)
   Others receiving votes: Fayetteville 1

Class 5A

1. Benton (5) — 16-2, 33 pts (Prev: 1)

2. Greenbrier (1) — 19-3, 28 pts (Prev: 2)

3. Vilonia (1) — 17-1, 20 pts (Prev: 3)

4. Sheridan — 18-2, 14 pts (Prev: 4)

5. Greene County Tech — 16-5, 7 pts (Prev: 5)
   Others receiving votes: Farmington 2, White Hall 1

Class 4A

1. Pea Ridge (4) — 16-5, 30 pts (Prev: 2)

2. Malvern (2) — 17-2, 28 pts (Prev: 1)

3. Brookland (1) — 17-5, 22 pts (Prev: 4)

4. Monticello — 14-1, 11 pts (Prev: NR)

5. Wynne — 15-3, 9 pts (Prev: 3)
   Others receiving votes: Lonoke 3, Pottsville 1, Warren 1

Class 3A

1. Lavaca (4) — 14-1, 30 pts (Prev: 1)

2. Bald Knob (3) — 17-1, 27 pts (Prev: 2)

3. Lamar — 19-3, 16 pts (Prev: 4)

4. Harding Academy — 13-5, 14 pts (Prev: 3)

5. Melbourne — 13-3, 6 pts (Prev: NR)
   Others receiving votes: Smackover 4, Hoxie 3, Haskell Harmony Grove 2, Elkins 2, Baptist Prep 1

Class 2A

1. Horatio (6) — 20-4, 34 pts (Prev: 1)

2. Woodlawn — 19-4, 25 pts (Prev: 2)

3. East Poinsett County (1) — 13-1, 20 pts (Prev: 3)

4. Tuckerman — 17-7, 8 pts (Prev: T-4)

5. Bigelow — 14-3, 3 pts (Prev: T-4)

6. Des Arc — 12-6, 3 pts (Prev: NR)

7. Hector — 14-2, 3 pts (Prev: NR)

8. Magnet Cove — 12-5, 3 pts (Prev: T-4)

9. Poyen — 10-3, 3 pts (Prev: NR)
   Others receiving votes: Cotter 2, McCrory 1

Class 1A

1. Taylor (6) — 11-3, 33 pts (Prev: 1)

2. Scranton (1) — 15-6, 29 pts (Prev: 2)

3. West Side Greers Ferry — 13-4, 20 pts (Prev: 3)

4. Bradley — 12-3, 9 pts (Prev: 4)

5. Marked Tree — 10-2, 6 pts (Prev: 5)
   Others receiving votes: Magazine 4, Bearden 2, Calico Rock 2

The poll reflects games played through April 18 and will continue to be updated weekly as teams battle for postseason positioning across Arkansas.

Sheridan senior Skylar Sterritt has made history on the softball field, breaking the Arkansas high school record for career stolen bases.

Sterritt recorded her 188th stolen base Tuesday night against Pine Bluff, surpassing the previous record of 187 set by Hannah Bourgeois from 2013 to 2016.

The milestone solidifies Sterritt as the state’s all-time leader in career steals in fastpitch softball, capping off a standout high school career defined by speed and consistency on the basepaths.

With eight regular season games still remaining before the postseason begins, Sterritt will have additional opportunities to extend her record even further.

The White Hall School District has named a familiar face to lead its football program.

Jason Mitchell has been selected as the next head football coach of the Bulldogs following approval by the school board Tuesday night.

Mitchell previously served as interim head coach after the death of former head coach Ryan Mallett. During that time, he led White Hall to a 4-6 overall record, including a 3-5 mark in the 5A Central Conference.

After that season, the district hired Daryl Patton as the full-time head coach. Patton later resigned earlier this year to take an assistant coaching position at Pulaski Academy, reopening the position.

Mitchell, who has strong support within the White Hall community, now takes over the program on a permanent basis.

He joined the Bulldogs’ coaching staff after coming from Pine Bluff as part of Bobby Bolding’s staff, which oversaw one of the most successful periods in program history.

Mitchell will now be tasked with building on that foundation as he takes over the Bulldogs program full time.

The Sheridan School District has promoted Jordan Phillips to head coach of the Lady Yellowjackets basketball program, with the school board approving the move during its regular meeting Monday night.

Phillips replaces Andy Brakebill, who recently announced his resignation effective at the end of the school year.

A longtime member of the district, Phillips has been employed at Sheridan since 2016 and brings experience across multiple sports and levels. He has served as an assistant girls basketball coach from 2016 to 2018 and again from 2023 to the present, while also leading the junior high girls program as head coach from 2018 to 2023.

During his tenure as junior high head coach, Phillips guided Sheridan to conference championships in 2020 and 2022.

At the high school level, Phillips has been part of a successful run for the Lady Yellowjackets, including a state championship game appearance in 2017 and quarterfinal finishes in 2018 and 2023, along with multiple state tournament appearances.

In addition to basketball, Phillips contributed as an assistant softball coach from 2016 to 2024, helping the program to multiple state championships, including the 2024 title.

“Jordan Phillips is a tremendous role model to our students,” Sheridan Athletic Director Rick Treadway said. “Jordan is very well respected by his peers and players. He will be a huge asset as he leads our girls basketball program.”

Phillips also serves as a history teacher at Sheridan High School and sponsors the school’s National Honor Society.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Education with an emphasis in history from the University of Central Arkansas and a Master of Science in kinesiology and coaching from Southern Arkansas University. Phillips and his wife, Sarah, have two sons.

The latest Arkansas Sports Media High School Baseball Poll for the week ending April 11 shows continued dominance at the top across multiple classifications, with several teams holding their ground while others make key moves in the rankings.

CLASS 6A

Conway remains the top-ranked team in Class 6A with a 15-2 record and six first-place votes. Rogers follows at No. 2 with a 14-2 mark and one first-place vote. Cabot holds steady at No. 3 at 11-3, while Springdale Har-Ber (13-4) moves up to No. 4. Jonesboro (13-5) rounds out the top five.

1. Conway (6) 15-2

2. Rogers (1) 14-2

3. Cabot 11-3

4. Springdale Har-Ber 13-4

5. Jonesboro 13-5

Others receiving votes: Bryant 5, Bentonville 2

CLASS 5A

Valley View continues to lead Class 5A with a 15-1 record and six first-place votes. Greene County Tech jumps to No. 2 at 19-1, followed by Benton at No. 3 with a 13-4 record. Greenwood (14-3) is No. 4 with one first-place vote, while Greenbrier (10-7) enters the rankings at No. 5.

1. Valley View (6) 15-1

2. Greene Co. Tech 19-1

3. Benton 13-4

4. Greenwood (1) 14-3

5. Greenbrier 10-7

Others receiving votes: Mountain Home 2, Sylvan Hills 1, White Hall 1

CLASS 4A

Pulaski Academy remains firmly at the top in Class 4A, earning all seven first-place votes with a 16-2 record. Shiloh Christian (18-2) stays at No. 2, followed by Joe T. Robinson (13-4) at No. 3. Brookland (15-6) is No. 4, and Highland (13-3) enters the top five at No. 5.

1. Pulaski Academy (7) 16-2

2. Shiloh Christian 18-2

3. Joe T. Robinson 13-4

4. Brookland 15-6

5. Highland 13-3

Others receiving votes: Pea Ridge 3, Gravette 1

CLASS 3A

Walnut Ridge holds the No. 1 spot in Class 3A with a 13-1 record and five first-place votes. Haskell Harmony Grove (12-3) remains No. 2 with two first-place votes, while Valley Springs (17-2) is No. 3. Episcopal (12-4) enters at No. 4, and Dover (14-5) is No. 5.

1. Walnut Ridge (5) 13-1

2. Haskell HG (2) 12-3

3. Valley Springs 17-2

4. Episcopal 12-4

5. Dover 14-5

Others receiving votes: Smackover 5, Ashdown 4, Charleston 2, Genoa Central 2

CLASS 2A

Murfreesboro continues to lead Class 2A at 16-1 with six first-place votes. Spring Hill-Bee Branch (15-2) is No. 2, followed by Riverside (13-6) at No. 3 and Woodlawn (14-5) at No. 4. Conway Christian (9-3) and McCrory (13-3) are tied at No. 5.

1. Murfreesboro (6) 16-1

2. SS-Bee Branch (1) 15-2

3. Riverside 13-6

4. Woodlawn 14-5
   5(tie). Conway Christian 9-3
   5(tie). McCrory 13-3

Others receiving votes: Spring Hill 5, Cotter 2

CLASS 1A

Conway St. Joseph remains the top team in Class 1A with a 15-2 record and five first-place votes. Taylor (11-6) is No. 2 with two first-place votes, followed by West Side Greers Ferry (9-5) at No. 3. Mount Ida (9-3) holds No. 4, and Midland (9-9) enters at No. 5.

1. Conway St. Joseph (5) 15-2

2. Taylor (2) 11-6

3. WS Greers Ferry 9-5

4. Mount Ida 9-3

5. Midland 9-9

Others receiving votes: Concord 3, Scranton 2, Jasper 2, Bradley 1, Columbia Christian 1

As teams continue to build momentum through conference play, the rankings are expected to shift in the coming weeks with several programs across the state remaining in close contention.

The latest Arkansas Sports Media High School Softball Poll has been released, showcasing the top teams across all six classifications as teams continue to jockey for postseason positioning.

CLASS 6A

Bryant moved into the No. 1 spot with a 13-2 record and five first-place votes, overtaking Bentonville, which dropped to No. 2 at 13-3 with two first-place votes. Springdale Har-Ber (13-4) remains No. 3, followed by Conway (12-4) at No. 4 and Cabot (11-4) at No. 5.

1. Bryant (5) 13-2

2. Bentonville (2) 13-3

3. Springdale Har-Ber 13-4

4. Conway 12-4

5. Cabot 11-4

Others receiving votes: None

CLASS 5A

Benton holds the No. 1 ranking at 12-2 with five first-place votes. Greenbrier (17-3) is No. 2 with two first-place votes, while Vilonia (16-1) sits at No. 3. Sheridan (14-2) remains No. 4, and Greene County Tech (14-5) enters at No. 5.

1. Benton (5) 12-2

2. Greenbrier (2) 17-3

3. Vilonia 16-1

4. Sheridan 14-2

5. Greene County Tech 14-5

Others receiving votes: Farmington 3, White Hall 1, Searcy 1

CLASS 4A

Malvern moved into the top spot at 15-2 with three first-place votes. Pea Ridge (14-5) follows at No. 2 with four first-place votes, while Wynne (14-1) is No. 3. Brookland (14-5) enters the rankings at No. 4, and Lonoke (11-4) and Gentry (12-1) are tied for No. 5.

1. Malvern (3) 15-2

2. Pea Ridge (4) 14-5

3. Wynne 14-1

4. Brookland 14-5
   5(tie). Lonoke 11-4
   5(tie). Gentry 12-1

Others receiving votes: Monticello 5, Gosnell 1

CLASS 3A

Lavaca remains undefeated at 12-0 and holds the No. 1 spot with three first-place votes. Bald Knob (15-1) moves into No. 2, followed by Harding Academy (12-3) at No. 3 with three first-place votes. Lamar (17-2) is No. 4, and Smackover (16-5) rounds out the top five.

1. Lavaca (3) 12-0

2. Bald Knob (1) 15-1

3. Harding Academy (3) 12-3

4. Lamar 17-2

5. Smackover 16-5

Others receiving votes: Melbourne 3, Haskell HG 2

CLASS 2A

Horatio leads Class 2A at 18-4 with five first-place votes, followed by Woodlawn (16-4) at No. 2. East Poinsett County (10-1) is No. 3. Magnet Cove (12-3), Bigelow (11-3) and Tuckerman (15-7) are tied for No. 4.

1. Horatio (5) 18-4

2. Woodlawn 16-4

3. East Poinsett Co. (1) 10-1
   4(tie). Magnet Cove (1) 12-3
   4(tie). Bigelow 11-3
   4(tie). Tuckerman 15-7

Others receiving votes: Des Arc 4, Cotter 2, Poyen 2, Hector 1

CLASS 1A

Taylor remains No. 1 with a 9-3 record and five first-place votes. Scranton (11-5) is No. 2 with two first-place votes, followed by West Side Greers Ferry (10-2) at No. 3. Bradley (9-2) and Marked Tree (7-2) round out the top five.

1. Taylor (5) 9-3

2. Scranton (2) 11-5

3. WS Greers Ferry 10-2

4. Bradley 9-2

5. Marked Tree 7-2

Others receiving votes: Nemo Vista 3, Magazine 1, Viola 1

With several teams unbeaten or carrying just one or two losses, the race for postseason positioning remains tight across the state as rankings continue to evolve week to week.

Cutter Morning Star has named Josh Brown as its new head football coach, school officials announced, bringing in a coach with experience from one of Arkansas’ premier high school programs.

Brown was introduced to his team Friday afternoon as he officially begins his role leading the Eagles.

He comes to Cutter Morning Star after serving on the offensive staff for the Bryant Hornets, one of the state’s most successful programs. Brown also served as the eighth-grade head football coach at Bryant, where he played a key role in developing players and preparing them for varsity competition.

School officials said Brown’s experience within the Bryant system — known for its consistency and championship success — made him a strong fit for the program. His background working with both young athletes and high-level offensive schemes is expected to benefit the Eagles moving forward.

Brown is expected to bring energy, structure and a focus on player development as he takes over, emphasizing both success on the field and growth off of it.

The landscape of college athletics could soon undergo another major shift as the NCAA prepares to review a proposal that would significantly change how athlete eligibility is determined.

The proposal, expected to be discussed in the coming weeks, would replace the current model of four seasons of competition with a strict five-year eligibility window. Under the plan, an athlete’s eligibility clock would begin either upon turning 19 or upon graduating high school, whichever comes first.

If adopted, the change would eliminate redshirts — including medical redshirts — as well as most waiver opportunities that have historically allowed athletes to extend their careers. Instead, athletes would have five consecutive years to compete, with only limited exceptions for circumstances such as military service, religious missions or maternity leave.

The proposal could be implemented as early as the fall 2026 academic year, signaling a rapid timeline for one of the most significant rule changes in recent NCAA history.

The move comes as the NCAA faces growing pressure to create more consistent eligibility standards. In recent years, legal challenges and court rulings have allowed some athletes to extend their college careers well beyond the traditional timeline, with some competing for as many as seven to nine seasons. NCAA officials have indicated a desire to establish a more uniform system that reduces legal ambiguity and limits prolonged eligibility.

The proposal also comes amid increased federal attention on college athletics. Donald Trump recently signed an executive order aimed at reforming aspects of college sports, including transfer rules and eligibility standards, as name, image and likeness opportunities continue to reshape the landscape.

Supporters of the NCAA proposal argue that a fixed five-year window would create a more level playing field by preventing older, more experienced athletes from extending their eligibility for financial gain. Coaches and administrators have also suggested the change could simplify roster management in an increasingly complex system.

The ripple effects could be especially significant for high school athletes navigating the recruiting process.

In recent years, the presence of older players — including those granted extra eligibility through waivers and legal rulings — has tightened roster spots and limited opportunities for incoming freshmen. College programs have often prioritized experienced transfers or veteran players over high school prospects, creating a more competitive and uncertain recruiting environment.

If the NCAA moves to limit extended eligibility, it could open more roster spots for traditional recruits. With fewer older players occupying scholarships and roster positions, high school athletes may see increased opportunities to sign with college programs, particularly in sports like baseball where development timelines often stretch beyond four years.

Recruiting timelines could also become more predictable. Coaches would have a clearer understanding of roster turnover, allowing them to plan more effectively and potentially re-emphasize high school recruiting over reliance on the transfer portal.

However, the proposal has also drawn concern from some athletes and coaches, particularly regarding the elimination of medical redshirts. Critics argue the change could disadvantage players recovering from injuries by limiting their ability to regain lost seasons.

The proposal is expected to generate significant debate across college athletics in the coming weeks, with potential long-term implications not only for college rosters, but for the pipeline of high school athletes hoping to compete at the next level.

The Grant County Sheriff’s Office has filed charges against three England High School students in connection with a postgame brawl following a 2A state tournament basketball game.

Authorities identified those charged as Aden Scribner, 19, Landon Woods, 18, and Charles Chaten, 18, all adult students at England High School. Scribner and Woods were taken into custody on April 9 at England High School, while Chaten has also been charged in connection with the same incident.

According to the sheriff’s office, two of the students face misdemeanor charges of second-degree assault and disorderly conduct. The third student faces charges of second-degree assault, disorderly conduct and riot.

The charges stem from an incident that occurred March 7 at the Poyen Sports Complex during a 2A state tournament game between England and Barton. Officials said a fight broke out immediately after the final buzzer, involving players from both teams before escalating as individuals from the stands entered the court.

In the aftermath, seven England players and five Barton players were ejected from the game.

Law enforcement officials said the investigation has been ongoing for more than a month, culminating in the execution of arrest warrants earlier this week. Authorities also indicated that additional arrests and charges are pending for both adults and juveniles believed to have been involved.

A Prescott School District employee has been removed from campus following a confrontation at a track meet in Nashville involving an online group that alleges the staff member engaged in inappropriate conduct.

According to information released by the district, the incident occurred Tuesday afternoon at a track meet at Nashville High School, where a staff member was approached by two individuals who were livestreaming on social media.

The group, identified as “Preds vs Prey,” is known for confronting individuals it accuses of attempting to engage in inappropriate relationships with minors. The group alleged that Prescott coach Tony Price attempted to solicit sexual favors from an underage teenager.

District officials said they became aware of the situation through a social media post. Once notified, administrators immediately removed the staff member from the premises. The employee was transported home by the district’s school resource officer and instructed not to return until meeting with the superintendent.

That meeting was held Wednesday morning, and the employee has since been removed from campus pending further review.

“The safety and wellbeing of our students is always our first concern,” the district said in a statement. “Our investigation into the incident is ongoing. At this time, we are not aware of any of our students being involved, but that does not decrease the seriousness of the accusation or the need to be fully investigated.”

District officials noted that, as the matter involves personnel, they are limited in what information can be released at this time. Additional details will be provided as they become available.

No charges have been announced, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Following is the Arkansas Sports Media High School Softball Poll, including the top five in Classes 6A, 5A, 4A, 3A, 2A and 1A, as voted by a panel of sports media from around the state for the week ending April 4. Ranking is given with first-place votes received, records, total points and ranking from last week’s poll:

CLASS 6A
Record Pts Prv
1. Bentonville (7) 11-2 42 1

2. Bryant (2) 9-2 37 2

3. Springdale Har-Ber 8-3 24 3t

4. Conway 10-4 19 3t

5. Cabot 9-3 11 -

Others receiving votes: Fayetteville 2.

CLASS 5A
Record Pts Prv

1. Benton (6) 9-1 41 1

2. Greenbrier (1) 13-2 34 2

3. Vilonia (2) 12-0 29 3

4. Sheridan 11-2 12 5

5. White Hall 12-3 10 4

Others receiving votes: Greene County Tech 5, Farmington 4.

CLASS 4A
Record Pts Prv

1. Lonoke (3) 10-1 32 3

2. Malvern (3) 13-2 31 1t

3. Pea Ridge (2) 11-3 26 1t

4. Gosnell 9-1 15 4t

5(tie) Wynne (1) 12-1 9 -

5(tie) Monticello 10-2 9 -

Others receiving votes: Brookland 8, Gentry 5.

CLASS 3A
Record Pts Prv

1. Lavaca (2) 11-0 33 4

2. Lamar (3) 13-2 32 1

3. Bald Knob (1) 12-1 29 2

4. Harding Academy (3) 9-3 28 3

5. Smackover 13-6 6 5

Others receiving votes: Cave City 4, Haskell HG 3, Charleston 1.

CLASS 2A
Record Pts Prv

1(tie) Horatio (6) 15-3 37 1

1(tie) Woodlawn (1) 14-3 37 2

3. Des Arc (1) 11-4 18 3

4. Bigelow 10-1 17 4

5. East Poinsett Co. (1) 8-1 14 5

Others receiving votes: Cotter 6, Tuckerman 5, Hector 1.

CLASS 1A
Record Pts Prv
1. Taylor (7) 7-2 43 1

2. Scranton (2) 9-3 34 3

3. WS Greers Ferry (2) 7-2 24 2

4. Bradley 8-3 13 -

5(tie) Marked Tree 6-1 5 -

5(tie) Norfork 5-1 5 5

Others receiving votes: Viola 4, Nemo Vista 4, Magazine 2, Bearden 1.

Following is the Arkansas Sports Media High School Baseball Poll, including the top five in Classes 6A, 5A, 4A, 3A, 2A and 1A, as voted by a panel of sports media from around the state for the week ending April 4. Ranking is given with first-place votes received, records, total points and ranking from last week’s poll:

CLASS 6A
Record Pts Prv
1. Conway (5) 11-2 39 1

2. Rogers (3) 11-2 35 2t

3. Cabot (1) 10-1 31 2t

4. Jonesboro 12-3 14 4

5. Springdale Har-Ber 10-4 12 -

Others receiving votes: Bentonville 4.

CLASS 5A
Record Pts Prv

1. Valley View (6) 12-1 40 2

2. Benton (1) 11-3 32 1

3. Greene Co. Tech (1) 14-1 28 4

4. Greenwood (1) 13-2 18 5

5. Sylvan Hills 11-4 11 3

Others receiving votes: Mountain Home 4, Greenbrier 1, Lake Hamilton 1.

CLASS 4A
Record Pts Prv

1. Pulaski Academy (9) 14-1 45 1

2. Shiloh Christian 14-2 33 3

3. Joe T. Robinson 11-3 29 2

4. Brookland 13-5 18 4

5. Gravette 14-2 9 5

Others receiving votes: Highland 1.

CLASS 3A
Record Pts Prv

1. Walnut Ridge (9) 11-0 45 1

2. Haskell HG 10-3 30 2

3. Valley Springs 14-2 18 4

4. Dover 10-3 13 5t

5. Ashdown 6-6 9 -

Others receiving votes: Episcopal 7, Flippin 4, Bismarck 4, Charleston 3, Smackover 2.

CLASS 2A
Record Pts Prv

1. Murfreesboro (8) 14-0 44 1

2. SS-Bee Branch (1) 12-1 28 4

3. Riverside 11-4 24 3

4. Woodlawn 10-5 17 2

5. Conway Christian 6-3 6 -

Others receiving votes: McCrory 5, Cotter 4, East Poinsett County 3, Spring Hill 3, Life Way Christian 1.

CLASS 1A
Record Pts Prv
1. Conway St. Joseph (7) 11-2 43 1

2. Taylor (2) 9-6 38 2

3. WS Greers Ferry 7-4 20 3

4. Mount Ida 6-3 18 4

5. Hillcrest 5-4 9 5

Others receiving votes: Nemo Vista 4, Jasper 2, Midland 1.

Wynne Public Schools has named Randy Coleman as the new head football coach at Wynne High School, bringing a veteran presence and a track record of success to the Yellowjacket program.

Coleman arrives with 28 years of experience in education and more than 26 years of coaching at both the high school and collegiate levels. He began his coaching career as a student assistant at the University of Central Arkansas before moving into the high school ranks.

His career includes a five-year stint as head coach at Annie Camp Junior High and four years at Valley View. Most recently, Coleman spent 15 years at Jonesboro, where he compiled a 113-59 record. During his tenure, his teams reached the state semifinals five times and won three conference championships. Across 17 seasons as a head coach, his teams have averaged more than 34 points per game.

Coleman has also made a significant impact off the field, helping 66 players advance to the collegiate level while emphasizing academic achievement. He has served as president of the Arkansas Football Coaches Association, founded the Northeast Arkansas Football Coaches Association, and worked with several area schools to strengthen their programs.

Wynne Athletic Director Bryan Mattox said Coleman’s experience and approach to developing student-athletes made him an ideal fit for the program.

“Coach Coleman has a genuine passion for developing young men,” Mattox said. “His offenses have always been exciting and difficult to defend, and he encourages student-athletes to compete in multiple sports. We are excited about the impact he will have on our program.”

Coleman said he is honored to take over a program with a strong tradition.

“I’m humbled, honored, and grateful to be named the head football coach at Wynne High School,” Coleman said. “This is a program built on pride and competitiveness, and I’m looking forward to continuing that tradition and making the community proud both on and off the field.”

Superintendent Dr. Kenneth Moore said Coleman’s experience and leadership will benefit both the football program and the district as a whole.

“Coach Coleman brings a wealth of experience and understands the importance of building a program that reflects our community’s values,” Moore said. “We are excited to welcome him to Wynne.”

Coleman takes over a Yellowjacket program with a rich football history as Wynne looks ahead to the upcoming season.

The Carlisle School District has promoted BJ Harrison to head football coach, elevating the Bison’s offensive coordinator to lead the program.

Harrison served as Carlisle’s offensive coordinator last season and brings a wealth of experience from stops across the state. Prior to arriving in Carlisle, he was part of Hazen’s coaching staff as offensive coordinator during the Hornets’ state championship run. A Hazen native, Harrison has also held coordinator roles at Maumelle, Sylvan Hills and Hazen.

District officials said Harrison’s familiarity with the program and proven track record as a coordinator make him a strong choice to lead the Bison moving forward. He is expected to build on the program’s foundation while providing leadership both on and off the field.

With experience at multiple successful programs, Harrison steps into the role with an emphasis on continuity and continued development for Carlisle football.

Pulaski Academy has turned to one of the state’s most experienced coaches to lead its football program, announcing Monday the hiring of Mark Kelley as head coach.

Kelley brings more than 20 years of experience in Arkansas high school football to the Bruins, including a recent stint at Sylvan Hills, where he earned 6A/7A Coach of the Year honors. His résumé also includes a state championship run at Searcy and key roles at some of the state’s top programs.

Pulaski Academy officials said Kelley’s background and success across multiple programs made him a natural choice to guide the Bruins moving forward.

Kelley has also served as offensive coordinator at Conway, helping shape one of the state’s more consistent offenses, and began his coaching career at Ouachita Baptist before later spending time at Crossett.

In a statement, Kelley said he is eager to take over a program with a strong tradition.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to join the Pulaski Academy community and lead this program,” Kelley said. “This is a place with a proud history, and I’m excited to get to work with these players and continue building something special.”

Pulaski Academy has long been one of the premier programs in Arkansas, known for its high-powered offense and championship pedigree. School officials expressed confidence that Kelley’s leadership and experience will help maintain that standard while continuing to develop student-athletes on and off the field.

Kelley steps into the role ahead of the 2026 season as the Bruins look to remain among the state’s top contenders.

The Mountain Pine School District has named Joseph Alderman as its new head football coach, marking what officials describe as a new era built on Red Devil tradition.

The announcement, made April 5, highlights Alderman’s deep roots in the program and his extensive experience within the district. A 2004 Mountain Pine graduate, Alderman brings 14 years of coaching experience, including 12 years dedicated to student-athletes in the community.

“Mountain Pine, it’s time to get loud,” the district said in its announcement, adding that Alderman “is the definition of Red Devil Pride.”

Alderman has served in a variety of roles at Mountain Pine, including head football and baseball coach, EAST teacher, district technology director, bus driver and sergeant with the Red Devil Institutional Police Department.

District officials pointed to his role in the football program’s turnaround in recent years. Since being named offensive coordinator in 2018, Alderman helped snap an eight-year playoff drought and guided the Red Devils to five consecutive postseason appearances. The team captured the 2020 state championship, followed by a runner-up finish in 2021 and a semifinal appearance in 2022. Since 2024, he has served as defensive coordinator.

Alderman said his coaching philosophy centers on developing well-rounded athletes.

“I emphasize being a multi-sport athlete because it builds character, versatility, and leadership,” Alderman said. “We want our students involved and invested in every part of the Red Devil experience.”

His impact has also extended to baseball, where he led the program to its first district tournament championship in school history and two runner-up finishes. Under his leadership, the Red Devils have made eight of the program’s 10 regional tournament appearances.

Alderman credited his family as a key part of his journey. He and his wife, Lillian, the district’s high school counselor, have been together since their senior year in 2004 and married in 2009. Their son, Maximus, is active in multiple school activities, including football, baseball, trap shooting, band and student council.

Alderman holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and a graduate degree from the University of Arkansas.

Looking ahead, Alderman said he is ready to lead the program with a renewed focus and intensity.

“Changes are coming, and it’s time to get on board,” Alderman said. “Our program will be defined by physicality, discipline, and tenacity. I am a Red Devil and always will be. Let’s get to work.”