Southern Utah University Football announced on March 30 several changes to its coaching staff as the program prepares for its upcoming transition to the Big Sky Conference. The Thunderbirds have added three veteran coaches and made internal promotions, aiming to bring experience and continuity as they enter a higher level of competition in the 2026 season.
The staffing changes are intended to help Southern Utah compete immediately in its new league. Head Coach DeLane Fitzgerald said these moves inject experience, proven player development, and schematic expertise into the team.
Jarrell Harrison joins Southern Utah after nearly a decade at Adams State, where he served four seasons as head coach. Harrison was recognized for his leadership and adaptability, developing all-conference talent and improving defensive production and special teams play. He also became the first African American head coach at Adams State. As a player, Harrison earned All-American honors at City College of San Francisco before starting at Missouri on a top-10 team.
Ron Hudson will lead the offensive line room with more than 30 years of collegiate coaching experience. Most recently head coach at New Mexico Highlands, Hudson previously contributed to one of the nation’s top rushing attacks at Georgia Southern during a 10-win season that included a bowl victory. His career includes stops at Penn State, Nevada, Louisiana, and New Mexico.
Josh Runda joins as part of the defensive staff after coaching most recently at Cincinnati and previously helping turn around Idaho State’s defense. Runda has coordinated defenses and developed linebackers across multiple colleges; he was also an all-conference linebacker during his playing career.
Internal promotions include Jack Nelson becoming Special Teams Coordinator while continuing with wide receivers duties, and Scott Fahey stepping up as full-time tight ends coach—moves aimed at strengthening continuity within the program.
Season tickets are now available for fans interested in supporting Southern Utah through this transition period.
