Former NHS star quarterback Payne accepts coaching gig with Tigers
Alex Payne’s football career with Nevada High School has come full circle.
Payne, a three-year starting varsity quarterback for the Nevada Tigers from 2012-14 has accepted an assistant football coaching position on head coach Wes Beachler’s staff.
It was made official at the Nevada R-5 Board of Education’s regular monthly meeting Wednesday evening, as Payne was approved for the assistant coaching gig.
“My excitement level is through the roof,” an elated Payne told the Daily Mail on Friday.
Payne flourished under Beachler, guiding Nevada to its most successful two-year stretch in recent memory. The Tigers compiled a 14-7 record during his sophomore and junior seasons, and a No. 1 district seed in 2012.
After graduating from NHS in 2014, Payne continued his athletic career for NCAA Division 3 Iowa Wesleyan University. Payne graduated in May with a double major in biology and pre-med, and 3.8 grade point average.
“I’ve always had the desire to coach one day, especially with Coach Beachler,” noted Payne.
Payne added that he had previously anticipated joining Beachler’s staff for the upcoming season in a volunteer capacity.
“The news of getting hired on was a really nice surprise, to say the least,” he said.
Beachler said he is thrilled that his former pupil will be joining the staff, as R-5 athletics transitions from the West Central to the Big 8 Conference.
“I am excited that Alex will be part of the coaching staff,” Beachler told the Daily Mail, adding, “former players make great assistant coaches. They understand me, the community, the expectations we have for the players and the program.”
Beachler said Payne will have several roles, including quarterback development.
“Coach Payne will be assisting in the play-calling at the sub-varsity and varsity levels,” explained Beachler. “Alex’s (primary role) will be quarterback coach.”
Beachler said Payne has a “great understanding of the way I want this program to look.”
“He also brings tremendous character, a great work-ethic, and attention to the little details that help in making young men successful.”
Added Beachler: “Alex understands football is about teaching work-ethic, integrity, toughness, teamwork and character — and not just winning games. It’s developing young men to be stronger men, husbands, employees, employers, community members, and dads. Alex understands that and embraces it.”
Payne said he’s eager to begin soaking up coaching knowledge.
“My goal coming in is to learn as much from the coaching staff and players as I can,” said Payne. “Being on the other side is a new experience for me.”
Payne considers himself blessed to have had the opportunity to play for Beachler during his first stint with Nevada.
“One of the most important traits he taught me was how to take constructive criticism, and how to handle pressure,” said Payne, fondly recalling his coming-of-age prep years. “That made my transition to college easier.”
Payne said Beachler instills character in all of his student-athletes. “Everyone leaves his program better for it,” he said.
Payne said he believes he will be a good ft with the current Tiger football staff.
“I played for a couple of them, so that will be the biggest adjustment,” said Payne with a wry smile.
Payne said he will look to instill traits in his players that he feels are vitally important, but he also has his pet-peeves.
“Not being on time and lack of hustle are my two biggest pet-peeves.
Added Payne: “As a QB, being late without probable cause and not hustling are inexcusable. You want to be one of the first ones on the field before practice starts, and the first one to every drill.”
Concluded Payne: “It’s a very humbling feeling to receive this opportunity. Growing up watching Tiger athletics, then playing for Nevada High School, and now getting to coach here, is something very special to me.”
“Hopefully, we can win some games this year, but more importantly, I hope I can make a positive impact in the lives of the kids that I’m around.”
Nevada High School’s varsity football season-opener is slated for Aug. 24, a road-match-up with Reeds Spring High School.