After five seasons of first-round playoff exits, the Middlesboro Yellow Jackets are going in a different direction for the leadership of their football program.

Zach Massengill has been let go as coach of the Yellow Jackets after compiling a 10-44-1 record in five seasons. Middlesboro finished 1-10 this year, falling 42-0 to Shelby Valley on Friday in the playoffs.

Massengill took over in 2014, after a 9-3 campaign in 2013 under Randy Frazier, and led the Jackets to a 5-5-1 mark. Middlesboro finished 1-10 in both 2015 and 2016 and posted a 2-9 mark in 2017.

The Jackets will lose quarterback Ryan Rogers (361 yards passing last season and 392 yards rushing), running back Alex Mason (650 yards rushing) and receiver Sebastian Wagoner (seven receptions for 173 yards and first in tackles with 43) to graduation but can rebuild around freshman Seth Huff, who was second on the team with 429 yards rushing and was second in receptions with six and in tackles with 26.

“After serious thought and consideration, the Middlesboro Independent Schools decided to move in a new direction with their football program,” said Middlesboro Independent Schools Supt. Waylon Allen. “I appreciate the years of service from coach Massengill and the example he has set for our students. However, at this time, I believe it is in the best interest of the program to move in a new direction. Please know this decision was not lightly made and, as always, I have the best interest of our students and program at the heart of my decision.”

The district will begin the planning process immediately and open the position to interested applicants.

“It will take the entire community to embrace our new coach and support the vision for the program,” said Allen, who noted he hopes to have a new coach in place as soon as possible.