The Farmington R-7 School District is proud to announce the hiring of Coach Brent Eckley as the new head football coach for the Farmington Black Knights. With over 25 years of head coaching experience and a distinguished career, Coach Eckley brings a proven record of success, leadership, and excellence to our district.

Coach Eckley began coaching in 1995 at Hickman Mills High School in Kansas City and has since led teams across Missouri to remarkable achievements. During his tenure, he has compiled an impressive overall record of 207-77 and earned numerous accolades, including multiple district and conference Coach of the Year awards, the 2020 Missouri Football Coaches Association Class 5 State Coach of the Year, and the 2020 AP State Coach of the Year.

Notably, Coach Eckley guided Jackson High School to five state quarterfinals, a state runner-up finish in 2019, and a state championship in 2020, where his team was ranked as the #1 team in Missouri for all classes. His accomplishments were further recognized with his induction into the Missouri Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2022.

Originally from Iowa, Coach Eckley is a graduate of William Penn University with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and a Master’s in Educational Administration. He is also certified in strength and conditioning and K-12 physical education.

Coach Eckley and his wife, Sherene, a retired teacher, have been married for 33 years. Their close-knit family includes four daughters, one son, and seven grandchildren (with another on the way).

Coach Eckley is excited to join the Farmington Football program and Farmington High School staff. He shared, “After competing against Farmington for several years, I have a high level of respect for the program. The players are physical and disciplined. We aim to build on the success the program has had.” Coach Eckley also expressed his enthusiasm for becoming part of the community, stating “I’m most excited about being where the schools and activities are a primary focus-where the success of the students and the programs is important.”

Players, families, and community members will have the opportunity to meet Coach Eckley in the coming days. Details about this event will be announced via the Athletic Department.

Please join us in welcoming Coach Brent Eckley and his family to the Farmington R-7 School District. We are excited about the future of Black Knights football under his leadership!

Athletics