The Hatchets have found a new leader for their football program.
Bad Ax Schools announced the hiring of Ryan Palmer as the next head coach, replacing Steve VerBurg, who coached one season for the team, in a school press release Tuesday morning.
Palmer is a graduate of Deckerville High School, Alma College and Grand Canyon University. He has spent the last 17 years in Arizona and will return to Michigan later this spring to take on coaching and teaching responsibilities at Bad Ax.
“I’m thrilled to announce the hiring of Ryan Palmer as our next head of our football program,” said Bad Ax athletic director Mike Bogan. “Ryan’s resume speaks for itself. He is a hardworking, highly motivated and dedicated professional. He’s done amazing things both on and off the field in Arizona and I’m sure he’ll bring those skills to Bad Axe.”
Palmer spent most of his Arizona career at Superior High School in Superior, Arizona, where he led the football team to numerous postseason appearances, including a state championship in 2018. He is currently a teacher and coach at the NFL YET College Prep Academy in Phoenix. He will complete the school year there before returning to Michigan with his family.
“We’re excited to add an educator and trainer of Mr. Palmer’s caliber,” said Bad Ax Superintendent Greg Newland. “From a coaching perspective, he has built successful programs from the ground up and instills a winning culture on and off the field. We feel fortunate to welcome him into the Hatchet family and it will make our students, athletes and community better. “
Palmer played quarterback at Deckerville and Alma and won several postseason championships. He also spent a year in the Arena Football League.
Palmer was scheduled to be officially hired as a coach and teacher at the February 27 Education Committee meeting, but that meeting was canceled due to weather. It will be back on the agenda at the March school board meeting.
“I look forward to returning home to the Thumb and having the opportunity to give back to the area that has given me so much,” Palmer said. “As a coach, my focus has always been on helping students fulfill their potential both on and off the pitch and I am committed to bringing that same passion and dedication to the Bad Ax football program.”
“I look forward to working together to build a culture of excellence that the entire community will be proud of,” added Palmer.