Kevin Verpaele has been named the head football coach at Merritt Island High School, a position he will assume this fall. The appointment was announced by the school district on June 15 after a months-long search. Verpaele, a 20-year coaching veteran, previously served as an assistant coach at Palm Bay High School and as a defensive coordinator at West Orange High School in Florida.
Merritt Island High School, located on the northern end of the Space Coast, has struggled to field competitive teams in recent years. The school’s football program finished with a 2-8 record in 2022. Verpaele’s hiring comes as part of a broader effort by the district to revitalize athletics across the county.
Verpaele said in a statement he is focused on building a program that emphasizes discipline and fundamentals. He will oversee all aspects of the football team, including player development and community outreach. His first official practice is scheduled for July 18 at the school’s 80,000-square-foot training facility.
The hiring has drawn attention from local sports fans and parents. Some have expressed hope that Verpaele’s experience in developing players for college programs will translate to success on the high school level. Others have raised questions about the district’s ability to support the program with adequate resources.
Verpaele’s contract includes a performance-based bonus structure tied to team wins and playoff appearances. The district has not disclosed the terms of the agreement. His first game as head coach will be on August 26 against Satellite High School.