Russ Schmidt Discusses His Resignation as Festus Head Football Coach, Reflects on Past 13 Years

(FESTUS) On Tuesday, the Festus R-VI School District issued a press release relaying the news that Russ Schmidt had submitted his resignation as the Varsity Head Football Coach after 13 years in the position.

Rumors around the school and the community claimed that Coach Schmidt was essentially fired. Coach Schmidt paid a visit to the KJFF studio in Festus on Thursday to speak about the resignation and while doing so, addressed the rumors that he was forced to resign.

The series of events that led to Coach Schmidt’s quote-unquote, resignation, began on November 11th when Festus Athletic Director Eric Allen informed Coach Schmidt of his decision to relieve him of his duties as head coach. The Festus school board officially approved the decision on November 20th.

The school district’s press release mentioned its appreciation for Coach Schmidt’s hard work and labor put forth on behalf of the program for the past 13 years. Coach Schmidt responded to that comment.

Coach Schmidt’s reach as head football coach extended beyond the field. He shares a story of one of his proudest accomplishments that involved a broken washing machine in the locker room.

Coach Schmidt wrapped up his interview with a thought on getting to spend more time with his family now.

Despite not being the head football coach, Russ Schmidt will remain the shop teacher at Festus High School. In 13 seasons under Coach Schmidt, the Festus Tigers compiled a record of 81-59 and won 7 conference championships.

Full Russ Schmidt Interview