Buck James, a football coach, discusses his decision to leave Bryant Hornets and join Conway

Conway, Arkansas – After leaving one of the most successful programs in the state to take on new challenges at a nearby school, a well-known figure in central Arkansas football recently made headlines.

After leading Bryant High School to five state championships as its head coach, Buck James is now taking over as the Conway Wampus Cats’ head coach.

The long-time coach found it difficult to leave the Saline County strong program.

“I will always have Bryant in my heart,” James said. “What they were able to do for a football program; what they did for me, and my family is something that I will treasure for the rest of my career and the rest of my life.”

For his first look at the Wampus Cats, James entered the field during Monday’s 7-on-7 competition.

“This is my first day here,” he said. “I’m just here to evaluate what’s going on and what I could do to put my stamp on it.”

Coach James is already enthused about the possibilities of the youthful club after Day 1.

“There’s a good football team coming back.” James said. “They are talented skilled players. They have some big lineman, they have talented secondary, and it looks like they are young. It looks like a football team that can grow and get better as the season goes on.”

The goal for his new club is evident right away for the coach, who is accustomed to being at the top of the heap in Arkansas.

“I don’t know if I’m the difference maker, I just want to give a chance and try for these kids and this community to do the best job I can to try to make this program the best in the state,” James said.

Conway’s 2023 season opens against Morrilton at home on August 15. Bryant is their final match in the regular season.