Loftus Resigns as Football Coach

Moments after his last game as head coach of the Palisades High varsity football team, Kelly Loftus gave one last speech to his team. The message was short but sweet: apply what you have learned in football to the real world and you will be successful. He is stepping down as coach but he leaves on his own terms and with no regrets. The search has already begun for a new coach and Loftus has asked to be on the committee to choose his successor. He hopes offensive coordinator (Kris Hawkes) and defensive coordinator (Perry Jones) will remain with the program. “I’ll still be around to help but right now my knee is shot and I’ve got to get it fixed,” said Loftus, who has paced the sidelines in pain and with a noticeable limp all season. “Being around young people keeps me young and it’s been a wonderful experience that I wouldn’t trade for anything. The thing I’ll miss the most is the comaraderie.” Loftus will continue his role as Palisades High’s head dean. The Dolphins posted a 7-23 record in his three seasons.