CHS selects Kelley for AD position

CLOVIS — Clovis High on Monday selected Darren Kelley as its next athletic director.

Kelley, a 1986 CHS graduate, has been on the school’s coaching staff since 1991. He is in his 18th year as the boys track coach, and has had assistant’s positions in football, basketball and baseball.

Kelley, who turned 50 last September, spent 21 years as an assistant to longtime CHS football coach Eric Roanhaus, including 12 seasons as the Wildcats’ defensive coordinator. The last four years, he has served as the assistant AD under the retiring Dale Fullerton.

“It’s a great job to have,” Kelley said. “I’m excited to step in and fill the shoes of previous athletic directors here.

“It’s something I’ve always wanted to do. Clovis kids are special to me, and it’s nice to be in a position where I can contribute to success at every level.”

Kelley was one of six finalists for the job. The others were Keith Durham, Kenny Eudy, Drew Hatley, Greg Hill and Loran Hill.

Clearly, he has a fondness for the school and the people in it.

“I’d like to think my 25 years have helped me prepare for this job,” he said.

He said he will miss the day-to-day routine of coaching.

“The hardest thing about it is not being around the kids coaching-wise, he said.

Kelley is scheduled to begin his new duties on July 1.