Rodney Southern Appointed Head Football Coach and Boys Athletic Director at Copperas Cove ISD
Copperas Cove ISD has welcomed back a familiar face to lead its athletic program. During a special meeting on Thursday, the district’s Board of Trustees unanimously approved the hiring of Rodney Southern as the new Head Football Coach and Boys Athletic Director. Southern returns to Copperas Cove, where he previously served as a defensive coordinator for the Bulldawgs in the late 1990s.
Southern, who expressed excitement about his new role, emphasized the significance of Copperas Cove in his coaching journey. He described the district as a place where he honed his skills as a coach and leader and gained his first head coaching opportunity.
Southern brings extensive experience to the role, having spent the last 11 seasons as Head Football Coach and Athletic Director at Huntsville High School. Under his leadership, Huntsville’s football program achieved notable success, including playoff berths and two appearances in the Regional Finals in 2018 and 2023. Southern’s tenure also saw the development of multiple Division I athletes, including a 2024 NFL Draft pick. Prior to Huntsville, Southern led teams at Belton and Marshall, earning district titles and guiding Marshall to consecutive Class 4A state championship games in 2004 and 2005.
As an administrator, Southern has overseen significant facility improvements, including the construction of a new stadium at Huntsville High School and on-campus fields for baseball and softball.
Superintendent Dr. Brent Hawkins highlighted Southern’s track record of excellence both as a coach and administrator, expressing confidence in his ability to bring success to Copperas Cove’s athletic program. Southern is expected to begin his role on Monday.
KNCT 