BY KYLE LOVERN
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

NAUGATUCK, W.Va. — Tug Valley High School has tapped assistant coach Kyle Runyon to lead its football program.

He replaces departing head coach Hady Ford.

Runyon joined the Panthers staff in the summer of 2024 and quickly took on key responsibilities. He served as defensive line coach, run game coordinator and special teams coordinator.

A 2014 graduate of Logan High School, he brings coaching experience and already serves as Tug Valley’s head wrestling coach.

“My first coaching stint was as an assistant at Logan High School for several years under former head coach Gary Mullins,” Runyon said.

Now he is preparing to take over one of the area’s most tradition-rich programs.

“I’m super excited to be given the opportunity to lead this program,” Runyon said. “Tug Valley has a great history not only athletically but academically as well. I look forward to the opportunity to add to the success and rich tradition of Tug Valley football.”

Runyon also praised the support system already in place at the school.

“I’m blessed to be surrounded by an administration that understands the importance of athletics and what it means to our student body,” he said. “When it comes to the coaching staff, we’re blessed to have individuals who care deeply about the players and the program.”

Runyon’s hiring will become official upon approval of the Mingo County Board of Education at its April 21 meeting.

Tug Valley will open the 2026 season Aug. 27 at county rival Mingo Central.