After an incredible 12-year run at Pontiac (MI) Notre Dame Prep—one that culminated in a state championship in 2024—head coach Pat Fox is trading the Great Lakes for the Sunshine State.

Fox, who stepped down from the Fighting Irish program with an impressive 89-37 overall record, has been named the head coach at South Marion High School in Florida. This marks a major win for one of the state's newest programs, which had been searching for a leader after a dramatic turn of events earlier this spring.

South Marion originally hired former Apalachee head coach Kevin Saunders, but he backed out just 24 hours after accepting the position. "Friends after much thought and prayers I have decided to turn the job down at South Marion," Saunders shared on social media in late March. "I feel terrible for doing this but I want to get back home closer to family."

Enter Fox, a highly respected figure in Michigan high school football circles. His resume speaks for itself: a 2024 state title, a 2019 induction into the Michigan High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame, and a reputation for developing not just athletes, but well-rounded student-athletes.

"Success at Notre Dame Prep has always been measured by more than the scoreboard; it's measured by the character of the young student-athletes who graduate from our locker room," said Notre Dame Prep athletic director Betty Wroubel. "Coach Fox didn't just deliver a state championship; he gave us 12 years of tireless, selfless devotion to our mission."

The Fighting Irish finished last season ranked No. 31 in the final 2025 Michigan High School Football Massey Rankings with an 11-2 record. Now, Fox brings that championship pedigree and leadership to South Marion as the program gears up for its 2026 campaign.

For Florida high school football fans, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard—your go-to resource for real-time updates and final scores from across the Sunshine State.