KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Rockhurst High School announced its new head football coach Thursday morning.

The school said it hired Kelly Donohoe to replace Tony Severino, who had led the football program since 1983.

Severino announced his retirement earlier this year.

Donohoe, Rockhurst said, led the Blue Springs football team for 19 years, from 2000 to 2019.

At Blue Springs, Donohoe earned a 191-53 record over 20 seasons, with 14 conference championships, 15 district championships and four state championships.

Severino’s and Donohoe’s teams played each other 32 times over the course of their careers.

“What Coach Severino has done at Rockhurst over the last 37 years is truly amazing. Even though it has been a great rivalry between our two schools, we have maintained a great friendship,” Donohoe said.

Both Donohoe and Severino are Missouri Sports Hall of Fame inductees.

Rockhurst leaders said they’re excited to welcome Donohoe, whose reputation they say is impressive on and off the field.

“He's a faith-filled family man who clearly exemplifies the best traditions and highest principles of our Roman Catholic, Jesuit and college preparatory identity. Personally and professionally, I am thrilled to welcome Kelly to our community,” said Rev. Vincent Giacabazi, principal.

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