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Sierra Vista Today
By the People, for the People
Cochise County Sheriff Doubles as Successful High School Coach
Sheriff Mark Dannels has spent over 28 years coaching wrestling, soccer, and baseball in addition to his 42-year law enforcement career.
Apr. 8, 2026 at 1:02am
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A cubist interpretation of the energy and intensity of high school sports, reflecting Sheriff Dannels' coaching philosophy of discipline and character development.Sierra Vista TodayCochise County Sheriff Mark Dannels is a 42-year veteran of law enforcement who has also spent over 28 years coaching high school sports teams. He currently serves as the head coach for the wrestling and soccer programs at American Leadership Academy-Sierra Vista, where he has quickly built successful and competitive teams. Prior to this, Dannels was the varsity wrestling and soccer coach at Buena High School, where he developed a reputation for instilling values of grit, accountability, and character in his athletes.
Why it matters
Sheriff Dannels' dual roles as a law enforcement leader and high school coach demonstrate his deep commitment to the youth and community of Cochise County. By investing time and energy into developing young athletes, he is helping to shape the next generation of leaders, both on and off the field.
The details
In addition to his duties as Cochise County Sheriff, Dannels was asked to develop the wrestling and soccer (boys and girls) programs at ALA-Sierra Vista. Under his leadership, the soccer team has already compiled an impressive 5-1 record in just two years. Dannels also continues to coach the girls' soccer team, with the goal of getting them back into the state playoffs this year. On the wrestling mat, Dannels brings the same intensity and discipline that has defined his coaching philosophy for nearly three decades.
- Dannels has served as the 26th Cochise County Sheriff since November 2012.
- He has over 28 years of experience as a high school coach, including time spent at Buena High School.
The players
Mark Dannels
The 26th Cochise County Sheriff, with 42 years of law enforcement experience. He is also the head coach for the wrestling and soccer programs at American Leadership Academy-Sierra Vista.
American Leadership Academy-Sierra Vista
The high school where Sheriff Dannels currently coaches the wrestling and soccer teams.
Buena High School
The high school where Dannels previously served as the varsity wrestling and soccer coach.
What they’re saying
“Sheriff Dannels stated that he would continue to coach the girls as they build upon a program and get back into the state playoffs this year.”
— Mark Dannels, Cochise County Sheriff
What’s next
Sheriff Dannels will continue to lead the wrestling and soccer programs at ALA-Sierra Vista, with the goal of guiding the girls' soccer team back to the state playoffs this year.
The takeaway
Sheriff Dannels' dedication to coaching high school sports, in addition to his long career in law enforcement, demonstrates his holistic commitment to shaping the next generation of leaders in Cochise County. His ability to instill values of discipline, accountability, and character development in his athletes is a testament to his servant leadership approach.
