(Ryan Casey/CHSAANow.com)
After nine seasons that have resulted three state championships and a runner-up finish, Tom Pulford has decided to take a step back in the Palmer Ridge football program.
Pulford has stepped down as head coach of the Bears in order to prioritize his family and health. He does plan to remain involved with the team, despite not being the ultimate shot-caller.
“After 16 years teaching and coaching in D-38, nine of which I have been the head football coach at PRHS, I need to step back and do what is best for my personal health and for my family,” Pulford said in a release. “I look forward to continuing to support the program in any way I can; my role will just have to look different.”
Before taking the job at Palmer Ridge, Pulford coached at Lewis-Palmer for three years. In his nine years as head coach of the Bears, Pulford’s teams went 62-29. He won three straight Class 3A state championships from 2017 to 2019. The Bears advanced to the 4A state championship game in 2020 — their first year in the classification — where they were beat by Loveland.
The first state championship win capped an undefeated 2017 season and the Bears beat Erie at Falcon Stadium on the grounds of the United States Air Force Academy.
(Chris Fehrm/Chris Fehrm Photography)
Their next two state championships came against Pueblo East in 2018 and Pueblo South in 2019.
Pulford’s decision to step back is based on what is best for his personal life and he is excited to be able to focus more on himself and his family while still remaining active in both the school and the football team.
“While I am sad to see Tom stepping down from this role, I am extremely happy for Tom and his family,” athletic director Lance McCorkle said in the district release. “The countless hours that he has put in over the years would take a toll on any coach. We are fortunate to have Tom remain as a teacher in the school and also remain as a member of the Palmer Ridge football staff. Coach Pulford has built a lasting foundation for our football program and will be an integral part of its future.”
Palmer Ridge will immediately conduct its search into Pulford’s successor. While the school hopes to make the hire quickly and effectively, patience is preached as the school doesn’t want to just find the “next” coach, but the “right” coach first and foremost.