Bozeman Football Coach Kevin Pettis Departs for Marianna Job

Pettis led Bozeman to first-ever football championship in 2026 before accepting new role.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

Kevin Pettis has stepped down as head coach of the Bozeman football team, a role he had held since leading the team to its first-ever football championship in 2026. Pettis has accepted a new coaching position with the Marianna football program.

Why it matters

Pettis' departure marks a significant change for the Bozeman football program, which had found success under his leadership. The team's 2026 championship was a milestone moment for the school and community.

The details

Pettis confirmed to reporters that he is leaving Bozeman to take a new coaching job with the Marianna football team. During his tenure, Pettis led Bozeman to a 35-12 victory over North Bay Haven, the team's first-ever football championship.

  • Bozeman defeated North Bay Haven 35-12 on October 24, 2026 to win their first football championship.
  • Pettis announced his departure from Bozeman and acceptance of the Marianna coaching job on February 18, 2026.

The players

Kevin Pettis

The former head coach of the Bozeman football team, who led the program to its first-ever championship in 2026 before accepting a new coaching position with the Marianna football team.

Bozeman

The high school football program that won its first championship in 2026 under the leadership of coach Kevin Pettis.

Marianna

The high school football program that has hired Kevin Pettis as their new head coach after his departure from Bozeman.

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What they’re saying

“I'm excited for the opportunity. Very thankful for the opportunity to coach the Bozeman Bucks. Wish them all the success in the world.”

— Kevin Pettis (News Herald)

The takeaway

Pettis' departure from Bozeman represents a significant transition for the football program, which will need to find a new leader to build on the team's first-ever championship season under Pettis' guidance.