The world of American football mourns the loss of a coaching legend, Kenneth Gene Stephens, who passed away on Monday, August 28, 2023, at the age of 92. Stephens, a member of the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame, carved an illustrious career as a football coach.

He left behind an indelible mark on the sport he loved dearly. His journey from a young track star to a highly successful football coach speaks for itself.

From Track Star to Gridiron Gladiator

Kenneth Gene Stephens’ early years were marked by his exceptional athletic prowess. At Conway High School, he excelled in various track and field events. He earned multiple accolades and high-point awards, including the 1948 state meet. He was not only a track star but also dabbled in football, showcasing his skills as a halfback and safety. His high school days were a foreshadowing of the greatness that lay ahead.

Stephens continued his athletic journey at Arkansas State Teachers College (now the University of Central Arkansas), where he set records in both football and track. His remarkable achievement of five interceptions in a single football game still stands unbroken. On the track, he made history by becoming a two-time NAIA All-American and the first Arkansas Intercollegiate Conference athlete to earn All-American honors for two consecutive years. His dominance in the 120-yard high hurdles was unrivaled during his college career. He had lost only two national meets during this period.

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Stephens’ coaching career began with a bang at Crossett High School. He served as an assistant football coach. After this, he ascended to the position of head coach and athletic director at Bethany High School in Oklahoma. His very first year at Bethany saw his team clinch a conference championship and triumph in the state playoffs.

Shaping College Football Excellence

After a brief hiatus to complete his master’s degree, Stephens returned to coaching at Walnut Ridge High School, guiding his team to a conference championship in 1957. His coaching journey took him back to Conway High School for a brief but successful stint, recording back-to-back 7–3 seasons. However, it was at North Little Rock High School where Stephens etched his name in history, leading the Wildcats to three state championships in 1965, ’66, and ’70.

Stephens’ impact extended to the college level, where he played a pivotal role in reshaping football programs. He made a triumphant return to his alma mater, the University of Central Arkansas, in 1972 as head coach, laying the foundation for the Bears’ enduring success. Under his guidance, the team secured four AIC titles and made four appearances in the NAIA playoffs.

In 1982, Stephens took on the challenge of coaching at Lamar University but resigned in 1985 after four tough seasons. His coaching journey culminated at Arkansas Tech University, where he spent seven memorable seasons before retiring in 1992. However, retirement could not keep him away from the sport he loved. In 2001, he resurfaced as the head coach at Ranger College, Texas, leading the program to significant improvements.

Kenneth Gene Stephens’ impact on the world of football transcended wins and losses. His dedication, knowledge, and mentorship influenced countless players and coaches throughout his career. He garnered numerous accolades, including induction into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame in 2014, a testament to his enduring legacy.

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