A New Era for the Patriots
Jake Smith, a longtime assistant coach at Peoria Heights, has been elevated to head coach for the 2026 season, taking over from Kendal Parker, who departed to join the staff at Dunlap.
Smith and Parker share a long‑standing friendship and previously taught together at the school, a connection that could influence the team's culture as Smith seeks to instill a strong sense of community.
The Patriots, who finished the 2025 campaign with a 1‑8 record, will field roughly 30 players in 2026, including a half‑dozen newcomers from the co‑op partnership with Lowpoint‑Washburn, expanding the program's talent pool.
Funding for the team comes from multiple local sources, including support from Heights Village Hall, the Kiwanis Club and the Peoria Heights Alumni Association, all of which have pledged resources to help the program grow.
Smith, a 2012 graduate of Metamora High School, was a sophomore on the 2009 Class 4A state championship team before embarking on his coaching career, and he now hopes to blend that championship pedigree with a focus on fundamentals.
The upcoming roster features eight to nine seniors, many of whom will play both offense and defense, giving the team versatility as it prepares for its season opener at Champaign St. Thomas More on Saturday, August 22.
Building for the Future
Beyond on‑field tactics, Smith emphasizes community involvement, aiming to develop players into leaders who contribute positively off the field, a philosophy that aligns with the program's historical push to revive its winning tradition, last seen in 2003 under his father, John Smith.
With the Patriots set to open the season against a strong opponent, the coaching staff and supporters remain hopeful that the new leadership will translate early‑season effort into a competitive campaign.