CLINTON, Miss. --- Mississippi College announced today that Head Football Coach John Bland has decided to step down from his position as the head coach of the Choctaws football team. Coach Bland, who has been at the helm of the football program for the past 10 years, has communicated his desire to pursue other opportunities.

During his tenure at Mississippi College, Coach Bland was challenged with returning the football program back into a highly competitive Gulf South Conference after a 17-year stint in Division III. Coach Bland has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the success of the football program, as well as the personal development of his student-athletes. He was named GSC Coach of the Year in 2019.

Coach Bland expressed his gratitude and reflected on his time at Mississippi College, saying, "I deeply appreciate the opportunity to lead the Choctaws football team. I have had the privilege of coaching some exceptional student-athletes who have worked hard to represent this university with excellence both on and off the field. While it is a bittersweet moment to step down, I am excited to explore new challenges and opportunities in my coaching career."

MC Athletic Director Kenny Bizot expressed the university's appreciation for Coach Bland's dedication and accomplishments, saying, "We are extremely grateful for Coach Bland's dedication and hard work throughout his time at Mississippi College. He has been a true leader and role model for our student-athletes, leaving a lasting legacy within our football program. We wish him the very best in his future endeavors."

The search for a new head football coach at Mississippi College will begin immediately, and the university is committed to finding a leader who will continue to build upon the successes of the program.