Prairie High School found its new wrestling coach. Prairie Athletic Director Rocky Bennett has announced that Derick Ball will lead Prairie’s wrestling program. Ball replaces Kane Thompson who resigned to accept an administrative position in the College Community Schools District.

“Derick is a high energy and a high integrity guy with 17 years of experience,” said Rocky Bennett. “He has tremendous knowledge in the sport of wrestling that will serve our program well. He has the passion, dedication and commitment to lead our program as we continue to compete for individual and team championships.”

Ball comes to Prairie from Highland High School where he led the wrestling program for the past four years. During Ball’s tenure at Highland, he has experienced a lot of success. He coached 9 state qualifiers and three place winners. In 2019 Highland won their conference and were Sectional and District champions.

“I am excited and honored to get to be a Prairie Hawk and lead the wrestling program,” said Ball. “The goal that I have for my student athletes goes beyond wrestling. I am interested in developing each athlete to be the best they can be on and off the mat and help them maximize their potential.”