The Morris Eagles athletic program is gaining strength for the upcoming school year with the return of a seasoned coaching veteran and the addition of a promising young coach.

Morris Public Schools recently announced the return of Coach Stephen Castlebury, who brings 32 years of coaching experience back to the Eagles. Castlebury will serve as the head softball coach and also assist with the boys basketball program. His deep connection to the school and the community makes his homecoming especially meaningful.

“I’m privileged to get to work and coach again with great people that have been friends for several years,” Castle- bury said. “Being an Eagle again feels right. I’m excited to be back doing what I love in a community that means so much to me.”

Coach Castlebury is known not only for his strategic knowledge and leadership but also for his positive relationships with students, staff and families. Outside of coaching, he enjoys time with his family and his three beloved boxers Millie, Marley and Moxie.

He and his wife Heather, his high school sweetheart of 34 years, have built a family rooted in support and tradition. The couple has two children, Kagen (married to Jenny) and Kelsey (married to Justin), and are proud grandparents to Wyatt (11) and Kyli (6).

Also joining the Morris coaching staff is Kaden Bumgarner, a rising young coach whose passion for athletics and mentoring youth is already evident. A 2023 graduate of Eufaula High School, Bumgarner was a multi-sport athlete for the Ironheads, excelling in football, baseball and powerlifting. He earned third place in the 168-pound weight class at the 2023 Small School State Powerlifting Meet.

After high school, Bumgarner earned an Associate’s Degree from Connors State College and will continue his education at Oklahoma State University in the fall of 2025.

His coaching journey began early. Over the past two years, he’s served as a coach in the Eufaula Youth Football program, giving back to the sport that shaped him.

“My passion for sports runs deep - as does my commitment to instilling strong values and a winning mindset in the players I coach,” Bumgarner shared. “I look forward to being a part of the Morris Eagles coaching staff and school community. It’s an exciting opportunity to continue growing as a coach and mentor while contributing to a program that is built on tradition, hard work, and excellence.”

At Morris, Bumgarner will be assisting with football and serving as an ISD (In-School Detention) teacher.

The dual additions of Coach Castlebury’s veteran leadership and Coach Bumgarner’s youthful energy reflect Morris’ continued focus on fostering excellence and building a well-rounded program for student-athletes.

With the new school year on the horizon, the Eagles community is buzzing with excitement for what lies ahead.