Football coach resigns after 17 years in Alex

The Jefferson High School head football coach announced his retirement last week after 17 years in Alexandria.

Dennis Kalpin was hired as the head football coach in 1991. He inherited a football program that had lost 19 straight games. During his tenure, Alexandria finished as high as state runner-up in 1994, played in six state tournaments and captured six conference titles.

As head football coach, Dennis created a family atmosphere with the gatherings after home games in the cafeteria. He made this a place for family, friends, alumni and players to gather win or lose. His emphasis on strength training and multi-sport participation changed the attitude of students throughout the entire activities program.

In his letter of resignation, Kalpin said, “.. football has been a large part of my life for the past 54 years, going back to my high school career. But after 47 consecutive years of coaching football, 29 as a head coach, and 17 in Alexandria, I feel that it is time for another man to take over the program. We have made great strides in our football program and I leave with no regrets. I am proud of what our players and coaches have accomplished. …. Thank you for a lifetime of memories.”

“When I came to Alexandria I had an opportunity to see Dennis transform our football program beginning with the upset of number one seed, Wayzata, 7-6. The many trips to play-off games played in domes to seeing the atmosphere he created was very special,” said David Hartmann, JHS Activities Director. “I was fortunate enough to work with Dennis as an administrator, parent and most of all a fan. I consider him a man of high integrity who strived to create a positive football experience for young men that would teach character values that would go far beyond the game of football.”

The position will be advertised with teaching openings for the 2008-2009 school year and opened to current staff members with a head coach licensure.