The Latta School System announced on Thursday that they have appointed Brandon Iseman as the new Varsity Football Head Coach.
Iseman is replacing Kelly Williamson, who resigned in April after four seasons with the team.
The 27-year-old Iseman spent three seasons at Dixon High School in Holly Ridge, North Carolina. He served as offensive coordinator and took over as interim head coach in 2013 before being officially named to the position in 2014. Under Iseman, the Class 2A Dixon High Bulldogs earned a 5-6 overall record and a 1-4 conference record in 2013 and went 1-10, 0-5 in 2014.
Iseman graduated from West Florence High School in 2006 and was a two-year starter under coach Trey Woodberry. He played college football for Methodist University where he was a four-year varsity player and a second team USA South All-Conference offensive line selection in his senior year.
He graduated from Methodist University with a Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Physical Education and was named Physical Education Major of the Year. He was awarded academic and athletic all-conference status three times.
Iseman is glad to be back in the Pee Dee area, and says his family played a part in his decision, noting that all of his family is in the area.
He also says he is looking forward to working with the Vikings to continue to improve their program. He will also be returning to his Class A roots.
“I am very excited to step in and take over a program on the rise in such a great school, school district, and community,” he said.
Under Williamson, the Vikings earned a 16-26 record including back-to-back playoff appearances in the last two seasons. Latta finished with a 4-8 record last season and will return some key players including Colby Lee, Davonta Porter, Tyreik McAlister, and Kartilus McFadden.
Iseman planned to meet with the team and coaches this week to prepare for the start of practice later this summer.
Latta High School administration says they believe Iseman will be a good fit for the team and a big asset in reaching the goals of their program.
“Coach Iseman brings an excitement and dedication to developing student-athletes that will blend nicely with the current coaching staff,” Principal Leigh Sloan said.
The SCHSL 2015-2016 sports calendar lists July 31 as the start of football practice with helmets only, and practices with full gear are scheduled to start August 5 with the first scrimmages on August 6. Latta is scheduled to travel to Mullins to open the regular season on Friday, August 28.