Richard Bell Named New Leopard Head Football Coach
One of the most decorated Leopard Football players in DHS history, who helped lead the Leopard Football program to conference championships and a state title appearance, will now be leading the program as the new Leopard Head Football Coach and Athletic Director. The De Queen Public Schools Board of Directors met in a special session Wednesday, February 1st, and approved the hiring of Richard Bell as the new De Queen High School Leopard Head Football Coach for the 2023-2024 school year. Coach Bell is replacing Jarrod Fannin is moving into a DHS assistant principal position.
Coach Bell’s playing career included numerous awards and recognition on both sides of the ball which include: three-time All-Conference honors, two-time All-State honors, winner of the 2000 Rotary Cup Award, and a single season school record of 167 tackles which still stands today.
While his playing career was impressive, Coach Bell’s coaching career has allowed him opportunities and experiences that have helped mold him into the perfect choice to lead the program. Coach Bell has been coaching the Leopards in multiple roles since 2008, including leading the junior high basketball and track programs as a head coach, and is currently serving as the DHS Head Boys Track Coach.
During his time with the football program, Coach Bell has been a constant presence on the defensive staff for the Leopards and served as the Defensive Coordinator for the past five seasons. More importantly, Coach Bell played a major role in leading the Leopard Football program through multiple transition periods over recent years.
Assistant Superintendent and Athletic Director Lance Pinkerton stated Coach Bell’s contributions over the past 16 years earned him this opportunity. “I am very excited to have Coach Bell leading our Leopard football program. He has been a Leopard his whole life and has dedicated the last 16 years to Leopard Athletics as a coach.” Pinkerton said, “I believe Richard has earned this opportunity and will do a great job. De Queen Schools, our community, and all current and future Leopards can be proud to have him as our coach. It’s a great day to be a Leopard!!”
In another board action, directors also approved the hiring of Gabriela Balderas as the new DHS Counselor. Mrs. Balderas is replacing Sally Hennard who will be retiring at the end of the school year.