Dover Names Matt Rees as Head Football Coach

[January 27, 2025] – Matt Rees has been hired as the new Head Football Coach for the Crimson Tornadoes. The Board of Education approved his hire at a special board meeting on January 27. Rees, a 2004 Dover High School graduate and former standout athlete, brings a wealth of experience and commitment to the Dover community to his new role.

"We are excited to support Matt Rees as our next Head Football Coach," said Tim McCrate, DHS Athletic Director. "Matt has been a dedicated part of the Dover football family for years. His loyalty, combined with his coaching and playing experience, make him an ideal candidate to lead our team. Matt's commitment to developing young student-athletes on and off the field has impressed us. He cares about winning games on Friday night and, equally, about their success beyond the gridiron."

McCrate added, "We had a number of qualified candidates express interest in this position. However, based on our experience with Matt, his unwavering dedication to the Crimson Tornadoes, and the excellent vision for the future of the program he presented during the interview process, he distinguished himself from the other candidates."

Rees has served as a Varsity Assistant Coach for the Crimson Tornadoes for the past 10 years, most recently as the Defensive Coordinator. His leadership has been instrumental in the team's success. In addition to his high school coaching experience, Rees has been actively involved in the Dover Youth Football League since 2009 and has served as Assistant Commissioner since 2023, demonstrating his commitment to fostering a love of football in young athletes and dedication to the future of the program.

"I am beyond thrilled to be named the Head Coach of the Dover Crimson Tornadoes,” said Coach Rees. “I have been fortunate in my coaching career to have learned from great mentors, including Coach Ifft, and I feel extremely blessed to have the opportunity to lead this football program. As a long-time resident of Dover, this Community and the Dover Football Program have always been special to me, and I look forward to continuing to build on the foundation that Coach Ifft has brought to this program."

Rees' football pedigree extends beyond his coaching career. A four-year letterman at the University of Mount Union, he was a member of two national championship teams, showcasing his commitment to excellence. As a player for the Crimson Tornadoes, Rees was part of an undefeated 10-0 team and earned Honorable Mention All-Ohio honors.

Dan Ifft, who recently retired after 30 years as the head coach for the Crimson Tornadoes, added, “Matt has been an integral part of every facet of our program for the past ten years and is extremely qualified to assume this position. He is intelligent, dedicated, and caring, and always has the best interest of his players at heart.”

Rees, a 2004 Dover High graduate, earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from the University of Mount Union, a Masters of Business Administration Degree from Ashland University, and a Master’s Degree in Special Education from Grand Canyon University. He has served as an Intervention Specialist for six years and as a Business Teacher at Dover High School for three years.

Matt and his wife Courtney (Sattler) reside in Dover with their three children, Rocco, Raymie, and Rowan, who all attend Dover City Schools.