Russellville parts ways with football head coach Mikie Benton

January 6, 2026

Samantha Money,

RUSSELLVILLE, Ky. – Mikie Benton has been relieved from his duties as head football of the Russellville Panthers.

The Russellville Independent School District released a statement on Tuesday following the decision:

The Russellville Independent School District (RISD) has begun the process to seek new leadership for the Russellville High School football program, effective January 5, 2026. RISD extends its sincere gratitude to Coach Mikie Benton for his eight years of dedicated service and leadership as head coach of the Panthers. Under his guidance, the program achieved notable successes, including a state runner-up finish. The RHS Head Football Coach position will be officially posted for applicants through the RISD Board of Education beginning Thursday, January 8, 2026. Interested candidates are encouraged to visit the district’s website for application details. The district looks forward to building on the strong foundation established and continuing the tradition of excellence in Panther athletics.

The announcement comes over a month after the conclusion of the 2025 season which saw Benton lead the Panthers to a 5-6 record.

Benton shared his thoughts on the news in a post on Facebook on January 6.

“(This) came as a surprise, but the decision came from Central Office,” Benton said in his post on Facebook. “I hate having to move on from a school that I graduated from and gave everything to, but I assure you I have no regrets of my time as Head Coach.”

During his eight years as head coach of the Panthers, Benton led Russellville to an overall 40-52 record, including six postseason wins.

2021 saw the best season during Benton’s tenure, as the Panthers finished with a 12-2 record and even made an appearance in the 1A state championship for the first time in 31 years.

“To all the players I’ve coached, love and appreciate you all,” Benton wrote in a post on Facebook. “To those I’ve sat with on signing days, still proud of you all! To the past players who still reach out, don’t ever let that stop!”