Lake Washington High School health and fitness teacher AJ Parnell has been hired as the Kangs new head football coach.

“He is a longtime coach in the area and a character guy,” said Lake Washington High School athletic director George Crowder. “He really has the pedigree and intangibles to become a really successful head coach.”

Parnell is no stranger to KingCo or even Kirkland football, as he has been an assistant coach under Shaun Terantola at Juanita High School since 2008 and played for the Rebels football team

Parnell replaces former Lake Washington High School head coach Steve Supple, who took the Kangs to the state playoffs during the 2013 season.

“It was a building decision,” said Crowder. “We felt like we needed to move in a different direction.”

Parnell graduated from Juanita High School in 2002 and then went on to play quarterback for Bethel University in Minnesota.

Most recently, Parnell acted as defensive coordinator for the Rebels.

“He has a good vision for what a great program should be,” said Crowder.

A committee of parents, players and the Lake Washington High School athletic  administration made the unanimous selection of Parnell, said Crowder.

Crowder said that Parnell expects a lot out of his players.

“He will stress the importance of academic excellence, athletic success and strong character,” said Crowder.

The Reporter will update this story when more information is available.