×

Kingsford’s Chris Hofer to step down as football coach after 31 years

Chris Hofer, center, stands with several of his players on the sidelines of a Kingsford High School football game. The school announced recently that Hofer is retiring from coaching and teaching after leading the Flivvers’ varsity football team for 31 years as its head coach. (Iron Mountain Daily News file photo by Burt Angeli)

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.

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper *
   

Starting at $4.62/week.

Subscribe Today