Dexter, Missouri - Life is always filled with change, but the times of change have now come upon the Dexter High School football program.  Coach Aaron Pixley has announced today that he and his family will be leaving his DHS alma mater to take the head coaching position at Kennett High School.

"No one will understand why a person would move when you are comfortable and satisfied where you are," stated Pixley.  "It's an excellent opportunity for my family and I have always loved a challenge."

In his first year as the Dexter Head Coach, Pixley had a team shirt that stated his philosophy toward the game of football, and obviously life.  The slogan read "Never Accept Mediocrity".

His thirteen seasons at the gridiron master has provided our community many exciting Friday nights.  His record tells the story with 78 wins which is a record for any Head Coach at DHS.  His two best seasons were in 2002 in his third year as the head coach the Bearcats had a season of 8-3 and then in 2010 was perhaps his most memorable year with a record of 8-5 and playing in the State Quarterfinals. 
 
The Bearcats have scored 3,285 points under Pixley with their opponents scoring 2,670.  In addition, we have been able to experience the joys of victory with three titles as SEMO Conference Champions, 2002, 2005 and 2011.  The Bearcats won four District Playoffs, 2002, 2005, 2010 and 2011, with 2010 making it to the State Quarterfinal. 

Many emotions flood a community when news of this nature is shared.  The feelings of loss will weigh heavily among students, faculty, friends, and the fans of Dexter High School and the Pixley's.  None more critically touched than those athletes who have become known as one of the "Pixley's Boys".

Coach Pixley has gone above the normal call of dedication for Bearcat athletes, both current and past.  Not simply the football players, but all athletes as well as non-athletes.  he has delivered to our young people the proud virtues found in organized athletes such as hard work, dedication, team and honor.

The jealously that Kennett would snatch such a good man and family from our community could be considered rivalry material.  However, in the high hopes of good things for a great family, we certainly wish him well.  May these opportunities only bring about greater opportunities for the Pixleys and Dexter High School.

The news certainly comes as a surprise to the Dexter Public Schools and they will busy themselves working on a replacement for the head position.  There is little speculation at this time to the direction the district will pursue.

Coach Pixley and his wife, Amy, will finish the year at Dexter before making the move to Kennett sometimes this summer.  Typically known as the "coaches wife", Amy has been a major part of her husband's success with the football program in Dexter.  She has dedicated countless hours to the tough jobs of laundry, schedule interruptions and household duties.