Mike Potter named new Hardin Valley football coach

Hardin Valley named Mike Potter its new football coach Tuesday afternoon, principal Rob Speas announced via Twitter.

Potter, 50, replaces Wes Jones, who resigned May 2 after 10 seasons. Jones started the program in 2009. This will be Potter's first head coaching job. 

"I felt like this was a good opportunity for me," Potter said in a phone interview. "I'm very fortunate to get the opportunity to oversee this program." 

Potter played at Fulton in high school and became an assistant coach for the Falcons in 1994. He was at Fulton until 2008 and was on staff on the Falcons' state championship teams in 2003, 2004 and 2006. 

Potter then was an assistant at Halls from 2009-13.

He has served as an assistant under Jones for the past five seasons.

"I'm happy to see a HVA coach get a chance to continue to build HVA football and I wish Mike Potter the absolute best of luck!" Jones said via text message. 

Potter plans to meet with the team Thursday morning. Hardin Valley is currently conducting summer workouts.

"I think hiring a staff member is gonna be a great transition for the players," Potter said. 

The Hawks finished 6-5 last season and lost to Ooltewah in the first round of the Class 6A playoffs. Hardin Valley opens the season Aug. 23 at Oak Ridge.