The search for California's next head football coach is over.
Mikel Gragg, who headed the Scotland County football program the past two years, will be taking over the Pintos' football program this fall.
"We are excited to bring Coach Gragg to our Pinto teaching and coaching staff," said California Superintendent Dwight Sanders. "He will be a tremendous asset in the classroom and on the football field.
"One of the attributes that stands out about Coach Gragg is his work ethic. He is a tireless worker and will expect the same from his staff and his players."
One thing that separated Gragg from other candidates is his background in weightlifting. According to California Athletics Director Rick Edwards, Gragg's weightlifting program was a factor in turning around the Scotland County football program.
"Coach Gragg has head coaching experience and took a program that was down and made them competitive," Edwards said. "In talking with his principal and athletic director at Scotland County, he was able to improve their weight program and get the players, which in turn helped them win."
Sanders echoed Edwards' sentiment about Gragg's success with players in the weight room. Sanders believes that Gragg and his staff will raise expectations not for just the varsity players, but for the entire California football program, including at the middle school and youth levels.
Gragg's coaching background extends beyond the football field, as he also has experience coaching baseball, basketball and wrestling. He compiled a 12-9 record as Scotland County head football coach.
Gragg is a native of Nevada, Missouri, and played offensive line at Missouri Southern State University. Prior to coaching at Scotland County, Gragg was a defensive coordinator at Diamond High School.
Gragg will also have a teaching position in the California School District. He possesses certification in mathematics, special education, physical education and health.
Gragg takes over for Marty Albertson, who resigned in November after six years as Pintos head coach.