Marana High football coach resigns just weeks before season begins

Phillip Steward resigned as Marana High School's head football coach on Wednesday, Aug. 5, just a few weeks before the season begins.

Phoenix-based recruiting analyst Adam Beadle first reported the resignation on X Wednesday.

Marana was 42-14 in five years under Steward, who led the Tigers to the No. 1 seed in the Open Division state playoffs in 2024 during a 10-0 regular season. That team lost to Chandler Hamilton in the first round.

Last season, they went 10-2.

The Republic sent messages to Steward but had not heard back early Thursday.

Marana began practice in helmets on Aug. 3. The Tigers open the season at Tucson Salpointe Catholic on Thursday, Aug. 27.

Alli Benjamin, public relations director for the Marana Unified School District, forwarded a letter to The Republic that was sent Wednesday to the Marana football families and was signed by principal Caitlyn Kauffman and athletic director Amie Cormell:

"This afternoon, Coach Steward informed us of his decision to resign as Head Football Coach. We recognize this news is difficult for our student-athletes, families, alumni, staff, and the entire Marana Tiger community. We share in your disappointment and understand the emotions many are feeling.

"While this news was unexpected, we respect his decision and thank him for the passion and leadership he invested in our student-athletes and program over the past five years."

The statement said school officials are working with the coaching staff ''to ensure continuity, stability, and a successful season for our team,'' adding that administration will share its short- and long-term plan for the team when it's established.

"The Marana Tiger Football Program has a proud tradition built on the commitment of our players, coaches, families, and community. That commitment remains unwavering. We are fully dedicated to supporting our student-athletes and providing them with the leadership, preparation, and opportunities they deserve throughout this season and into the future.

"We ask our community to rally around our players and coaches during this time. They need our encouragement now more than ever."

Richard Obert has been covering high school sports since the 1980s for The Arizona Republic. Catch the best high school sports coverage in the state. Sign up for Azcentral Preps Now. And be sure to subscribe to our daily sports newsletters so you don't miss a thing. To suggest human-interest story ideas and other news, reach Obert at richard.obert@arizonarepublic.com or 602-316-8827. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter:@azc_obert

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Marana High football coach resigns just weeks before season begins