Ben Guin was hired at the most recent meeting of the Franklin County Board of Education to take over the Vina High School football program. Guin replaces Jason Harris, who resigned after two seasons.

“Coach Guin is a veteran coach and a man of great character,” said Franklin County Superintendent Greg Hamilton. “He has experience playing football in college, and he is very familiar with the kids at Vina.”

Guin graduated from Mantachie High School in Mississippi in 1992. He played football at Itawamba Community College from 1992-1993 and has 21 years of experience in education as a special education teacher, 15 of which have been at Vina High School. He also has 19 years of experience as an assistant football coach.

Guin said he is looking forward to the process of building a program that has struggled in recent years.

“Our immediate goal is to get the kids doing what they need to do to get better every day,” said Guin. “We have already started in the weight room to get stronger, faster and quicker. We are going to focus on basics.”

Guin said he knows coaching football at a small school is a challenge, and he is ready to accept that challenge head on.

“Our biggest challenge is to get the kids to believe in what we are doing and that we are working toward a common goal,” explained Guin. “I want to get them to believe in themselves and create a team-like atmosphere and get the kids to enjoy the game. If we can do that and teach them a few positive life lessons along the way, we will be successful.”

Vina High School principal Brent Gillespie said he is excited about the future of the program.

“Ben will do a great job,” said Gillespie, who is in his first year as the school’s principal. “He is a good example for the kids to follow, and he gives us the best opportunity to be successful.”