MAYFIELD, Ky. — Cliff Dew has been selected as the new head coach of the Mayfield Cardinals football team, Mayfield Independent Schools announced Friday.
A news release from the school district said that Dew will take the position after longtime coach Joe Morris announced his retirement.
“I am fortunate and blessed to be the one to bridge the career that Joe had and carry that forward," Dew said.
Dew has worked with the Cardinals for a total of 17 years. He first joined in 2005, then left for two years to work as head coach and athletic director at North Pontotoc High School in Mississippi. He returned in 2009 to work as defensive coordinator. He made 13 trips to the football state championships, with six wins.
Dew played as an offensive lineman for the University of Mississippi from 1990 to 1991. He was team captain in 1991, earned the 1991 CommuniGroup Offensive Lineman of the Year title, and was the starting OG in the 1991 Gator Bowl. He was a graduate assistant football coach for the Rebels in 1992-1993, which included a trip to the Liberty Bowl.
Prior to joining the Cardinals in 2005, Dew coached in multiple capacities at Desoto Central High School in Southaven, Mississippi; Graves County High School; and Lone Oak High School.
“Not much will change. We have a successful program. It was built on the coaches even before Joe. Coach Leahy, Coach Jack created the tradition of Mayfield football. I feel honored to continue that tradition," Dew said of his expectations as head coach.
Dew earned his bachelor's and master's degrees University of Mississippi and received his Rank I from Murray State University. He and his wife Joelle have a son, Cassyn, at Mayfield High School.
