CEDAR CITY, Utah – With a move to the Big Sky on the horizon, Southern Utah Football has made some staffing changes to better prepare the team for the elevated level of competition. The Thunderbirds have added a trio of veteran coaches, while making some key internal moves, injecting experience, proven player development, and schematic firepower into the program as it gears up for the 2026 season. The additions signal the T-Birds' clear intent to compete immediately in a new league.
Head Coach DeLane Fitzgerald Said
"We've been very intentional about bringing in coaches who not only have great experience, but who align with the culture we have here at Southern Utah. Jarrell, Ron, and Josh each bring a unique background and a proven ability to develop players and lead at a high level. Adding their knowledge to our staff, along with elevating Jack Nelson and Scott Fahey into larger roles, gives us a great balance of new energy and continuity. I'm excited about what this group will do for our program and, most importantly, for our student-athletes."
Leading the group of newcomers is Jarrell Harrison, who arrives after nearly a decade at Adams State, including four seasons at the helm. Harrison climbed the ladder from position coach to head coach, a rise that reflects both his leadership and adaptability. Along the way, he developed all-conference talent and helped sharpen both defensive production and special teams play. He also made history as the first African American head coach at Adams State. As a player, Harrison earned All-American honors at City College of San Francisco before finishing at Missouri, where he started on a top-10 team.
Up front, Ron Hudson brings a veteran presence to the offensive line room. With more than 30 years of collegiate coaching experience, Hudson has built a reputation for producing tough, physical units. Most recently the head coach at New Mexico Highlands, he previously engineered one of the nation's top rushing attacks at Georgia Southern, helping power a 10-win season and bowl victory. His résumé includes stops at Penn State, Nevada, Louisiana, and New Mexico, where he consistently developed NFL-caliber talent.
On the defensive side, Josh Runda brings an aggressive approach to the Thunderbirds' scheme. Runda most recently coached at the University of Cincinnati following a successful stint at Idaho State, where he played a key role in orchestrating a significant turnaround of the Bengals' defense. Runda has coordinated defenses and developed linebackers at multiple collegiate stops. A former standout linebacker himself, Runda earned three all-conference selections during his playing career and remains among Bluffton's all-time leaders in tackles.
The Thunderbirds also made key internal moves, elevating Jack Nelson to Special Teams Coordinator and promoting Scott Fahey to a full-time tight ends coach. Nelson will continue to lead the wide receivers while taking on added responsibility in the kicking game, while Fahey steps into an expanded role with the tight ends, further strengthening continuity within the program.
With a blend of fresh voices and familiar leadership, Southern Utah is positioning itself to hit the ground running in its new conference home.
Tickets
Season tickets for the upcoming Southern Utah Football campaign are now available, giving fans the chance to lock in their seats for an exciting new era in Cedar City. With the Thunderbirds set to begin their transition into the Big Sky Conference, now is the time to secure your spot at Eccles Coliseum and be part of the action all season long. For more information and to purchase, visit tbirdtickets.com.
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