Porter Lacey is the new coach at Meridian High, and Brandon Harris is taking over at Columbia in Nampa.

MERIDIAN

Lacey, 31, has been the head coach at New Plymouth, where he led the Pilgrims to five straight 2A state playoff appearances and an overall record of 26-17.

“He understood the big picture with football. He understood that it starts down with those middle school kids,” Meridian Athletic Director Luke Wolf said. “He is an amazing teacher, and amazing teachers are amazing coaches.”

Lacey, who teaches physical education and weight training, was one of more than 20 applicants.

“I did a long-term substitute stint at Meridian before I came to New Plymouth, and I developed some good relationships with the administration, and staff and students,” Lacey said. “I felt strongly that it would be a great place to work, and it would have to be to get me to leave New Plymouth.”

Lacey replaces Kip Crofts, who resigned in December.

COLUMBIA

Harris graduated from Melba High (1992) and Boise State (1997). For the past eight seasons, he has been the head coach at John H. Pitman High in Turlock, Calif.

Harris was the offensive coordinator at Pitman while San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick was at the school.

“He’s a great kid,” Harris said.

Harris said he applied for the Columbia job to be closer to family.

Pitman qualified for the section playoffs in seven of Harris’ eight seasons. He has an overall record of 63-25.

“I’m just excited to be working with the administration and the people at Columbia,” Harris said. “It seems like a top-notch group of people. I can’t wait to get going.”

Harris replaces Derek Mertz, who resigned in December to spend more time with family.

Rachel Roberts: 377-6422,Twitter: @IDS_VarsityX