Kingsford’s Chris Hofer to step down as football coach after 31 years
KINGSFORD — Chris Hofer, who coached unbeaten Kingsford to the 1993 Class B state football championship, will not return next season.
Kingsford athletic director Al Unger confirmed that Hofer plans to retire from coaching and teaching after this school year.
“Chris is a legend,” Unger said.
Hofer, who compiled a 253-94 record in 31 seasons with the Flivvers, did not respond to a text message for comment.
His retirement follows by slightly less than a month a similar announcement made by 27-year head coach Jeff Olson at Ishpeming High School.
Hofer’s career began in 1987, with the Flivvers struggling to a 2-7 record. They improved to 6-3 in 1988 before capturing seven straight Great Northern Conference titles from 1990-96.
The 1993 Flivvers posted a 13-0 record in winning the state title. Kingsford also reached the state finals in 1990, 1992 and 1996.
Hofer, a four-time Upper Peninsula Coach of the Year, guided the Flivvers to 17 GNC championships and six regional crowns. Chris’ father, Ken, coached Menominee to a 314-119-1 record and three state championships.
Chris Hofer will join his father Ken in the U.P. Hall of Fame on May 11. Ken Hofer was inducted in 1987.
Chris Hofer was a three-sport athlete at Menominee High School and a three-year starter at defensive back for Northern Michigan University.
His Flivvers’ football teams had just three losing seasons in 31 years, including a 4-5 mark in 2018. Kingsford, noted for playing a strong schedule, advanced to the state playoffs 23 times.