James Stacy is back at the helm of the Enochs High School football program, taking on the dual responsibilities of head coach and athletic director for the second time in his career. His return comes after a three‑year stretch that featured three different head coaches, and it marks a deliberate move by the school board to bring continuity and stability to a program that has struggled to find its footing.
Stacy’s first stint from 2009 to 2021 produced a 45‑71‑1 record but also delivered a Modesto Metro Conference title in 2010 and a playoff appearance in 2012. Those achievements remain a benchmark for what he hopes to replicate, especially as the team looks to rebound from a 3‑8 record in the 2024 season.
After Tracey Traub and Joshua Bradshaw were let go in May 2025, Stacy stepped in to lead the squad. He inherits a roster of roughly 50 varsity and junior‑varsity players, 40 freshman‑team members, and a coaching staff of 16, half of whom are new additions. The recent 36‑29 victory over Golden Valley in the Sac‑Joaquin Section bowl game has injected optimism among players and fans alike.
Looking Ahead
Stacy’s immediate goal is to qualify for the eight‑team playoff bracket in 2026 while juggling the administrative demands of his athletic director role. He acknowledges that the transition was initially overwhelming, but he notes that the students remain excited about the program’s new direction. The coach believes that balancing on‑field strategy with off‑field logistics can create a more cohesive athletic environment.
The community’s response has been supportive, with local stakeholders eager to see the team return to its former competitive form. If successful, Stacy’s dual appointment could set a precedent for other schools seeking integrated leadership models. As the 2025 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Enochs to see whether the coach’s vision translates into on‑field wins.