Tony Hauserman Takes the Helm of Scorpions Football Team

The Sedona Red Rock High School varsity tackle football program is set to make a triumphant return this fall, following an announcement by Principal Heather Isom on April 28. Former assistant coach Tony Hauserman will lead the team as head coach, marking a new chapter for the program. Initial spring football practice sessions are scheduled to commence on May 5.

Superintendent Tom Swaninger emphasized Hauserman’s strong ties to the community and his extensive football knowledge. “We found someone who can connect with our kids and build excitement around the program,” he said. This commitment aims to develop a football culture rather than simply maintaining a team.

Excitement is palpable among the coaching staff. “We come with a lot of football coaching experience, and our goal is to make the Sedona Red Rock football program a fun and competitive environment,” Hauserman stated.

The coaching staff will include former head coach John Bradshaw as defensive coordinator, along with a robust lineup of coaches specializing in various positions. This team brings a wealth of experience, essential for nurturing new talent.

The football program faced termination by the SOCSD Governing Board on May 5, 2020, due to dwindling participation numbers. At one point, the team averaged just 25 players, many of whom dropped out by season’s end, exacerbated by injuries and academic struggles. Restarting the program does not require board approval, allowing for swift action.

Governing Board President Randy Hawley expressed optimism about the resurgence, noting that 40 students have already shown interest. “It’s a promising start, and I hope to see those numbers grow,” he said.

Financially, the estimated cost to restart the program ranges from $30,000 to $50,000, with annual costs projected at around $10,000. Orders for uniforms and equipment are currently in progress, highlighting the district’s commitment to a successful revival.

This year, the Scorpions will compete in the Arizona Interscholastic Association’s 1A division, which allows for a smaller team size—a strategic shift after previous unsuccessful classifications.

Hauserman has deep roots in the community, having moved to Sedona in 2001. His past experiences include coaching the junior varsity team and helping to establish Red Rock Youth Football alongside Bradshaw and Scott Gilbert in 2004. Their initiatives aimed to enhance player experience and skill development in local youth.

Looking ahead, the potential for establishing a junior varsity program depends on student participation. Swaninger highlighted that the goal is to integrate the middle school program with varsity efforts to create a comprehensive football pipeline.

However, Hauserman is realistic about the challenges ahead. Given that many players may be novices, he acknowledges that some will thrive while others may reconsider their interest in the sport. “Kids will have varied reactions; it’s essential to prepare them for the physical demands of the game,” he explained.

To ensure preparedness, Hauserman is calling for committed participation in summer programs and spring practice. These initiatives will create a solid foundation before introducing contact drills, crucial for player safety and skill development.

Ultimately, Hauserman envisions a community that rallies around the football program, hoping to transform Friday nights in Sedona into an exciting event that fosters strong school spirit and community involvement.