Henryetta Public Schools is kicking off a new chapter in its athletics program with the addition of three accomplished and passionate coaches set to lead the charge in football, girls basketball and wrestling. The district recently announced the hiring of Kevin Adler as Head Football Coach, Denise Gray as Assistant High School Girls Basketball Coach and Middle School Girls Basketball Coach and Rocky Garrison as Head Wrestling Coach for both the high school and middle school levels.
— Kevin Adler
Head Football Coach
With nearly two decades of coaching experience, Coach Kevin Adler brings a wealth of knowledge, success and leadership to the Henryetta Knights football program. Adler has coached at powerhouse programs in Oklahoma’s 4A through 6A classes, including a stint at Bixby High School, where he was part of two state championship teams.
Coach Adler is recognized for his commitment to developing student-athletes both physically and mentally, emphasizing integrity, accountability and growth. “I love being able to impact kids and use sports as an avenue to prepare kids for life outside of school,” he said. His coaching philosophy focuses on whole-person development, ensuring his athletes are equipped with the tools they need on and off the field.
The community will also be a key focus for Adler, who shared his enthusiasm about joining the district: “My family and I are extremely grateful and excited to become part of the Henryetta community, and we look forward to making a positive impact in the school and throughout the community.” Adler, alongside his wife Kadence and children Kaden and Kinsley, enjoys golfing, traveling and grilling in his downtime.
Henryetta Public Schools expressed confidence in Adler’s vision, stating, “HPS is excited about Coach Adler’s expressed commitment to creating a positive and successful culture in the Knight Football program.” — Denise Gray
Girls Basketball Coach & Middle School Teacher Coach Denise Gray brings a remarkable 28 years of teaching experience and an equally impressive coaching record to HPS. She has dedicated nearly her entire educational career to coaching, helping lead teams to several state tournament appearances and collecting eight state championships across three sports – five in basketball, two in track and one in softball.
Her latest mission is to help build a competitive and respected girls basketball program at Henryetta. “My hopes in joining the HPS family are to help Coach Kennemer build a basketball program that the school and community can be proud of,” said Gray. “My dream for the girls basketball team is for it to flourish and become a quality program that makes it to the State Tournament.”
Coach Gray and her husband Rodney – a 1984 Henryetta graduate – have three daughters and are proud grandparents to six grandchildren, with one more on the way in July. “Watching their grandkids on the weekends is the greatest joy for the Grays,” the school noted.
Gray’s dedication to students goes beyond athletics. “My favorite thing about being in education is running into former students and hearing about their lives now. I also love hearing them tell me stories they remember from my classes. It never gets old!”
Henryetta Schools praised Gray as a well-rounded addition, noting, “Coach Gray is known to be a school district team player and supporter of all students and athletes across the board. We are thrilled for the mentorship Coach Gray will surely provide our students, especially our young ladies.”
— Rocky Garrison
Head Wrestling Coach
Rounding out the new coaching additions is Coach Rocky Garrison, who steps into the role of Head Wrestling Coach for both high school and middle school programs. With over 50 years of wrestling experience, including time as a competitor, coach and respected referee, Garrison is poised to bring structure, passion and leadership to Knight wrestling.
Coach Garrison wrestled competitively for 12 years and was a three-time state placer. His coaching career includes 10 years of experience, including at Tulsa Central, and 15 years as a highly regarded wrestling official. A familiar face in Oklahoma wrestling circles, Garrison has also assisted with Henryetta’s local wrestling club and is involved year-round through OSSAA-sanctioned events and freestyle/Greco competitions.
In addition to his extensive background in wrestling, Garrison also brings valuable experience from ministry leadership, further reinforcing his commitment to mentorship and positive team culture. “I’ve always said it takes a village,” Garrison stated. “I am excited to be a part of this village of HPS to make the wrestling program successful on and off the mat.”
Garrison’s personal life reflects the values he brings to his coaching. He enjoys hunting, camping and spending time with his wife Tabitha, their four children – Tanner, Hunter, Zac and Aubree – and their three grandchildren. One of his favorite pastimes is watching his daughter in tumbling.
Henryetta Public Schools welcomed the Garrison family with open arms, stating, “We are proud to have Coach Garrison and his family as Knights and look forward to the future of Henryetta Wrestling!”
As Henryetta Public Schools looks ahead to the upcoming seasons, these three new coaches are expected to play a pivotal role in transforming and enriching the athletic culture. With decades of combined experience, a passion for student development and a shared commitment to community, Coaches Adler, Gray and Garrison represent a promising future for Henryetta athletics.
