Layton Christian Academy has moved swiftly to hire a familiar name as its new head football coach.

Kitt Rawlings, who once made a reputation as one of the state's most prolific running backs, takes over the Eagles after Will Hawes departed to coach at Clearfield. Rawlings most recently had an abbreviated stint at Woods Cross, and coached in Washington before that.

Rawlings had a decorated playing career with the Wildcats, once rushing for 423 yards in a game, before playing defensive back at Kansas State under then-position coach Bob Stoops.

He learned about the job through his brother, who has children who attend the school.

"I threw my hat in there and was welcomed with open arms," Rawlings said. "I'm really excited about the opportunity. Will did a great job as coach, and we want to continue that and continue to improve."

Rawlings was in line to make his return to Utah last year as head coach of his alma mater Woods Cross, but he was plagued by health issues and elected to step down before the season began. A year later, Rawlings says he's feeling healthy, and sitting out has made him even more passionate about the game.

"The one thing is I love kids, I love coaching and teaching, and I really missed it," he said. "I fell in love with those kids at Woods Cross, and I know they'll have success. But not coaching just reinforced my love and passion for it, and I'm ready to bring that to Layton Christian."

The Eagles had a breakthrough season last year, reaching the Class 1A finals for the first time in school history.

Rawlings said he'll evaluate the strengths of his personnel before deciding what schemes to use, but with all-state quarterback Kyle Yockey returning, he wants to try to balance running and passing on offense. Rawlings said his coaching experience in Washington has shown him how to bolster interest in a small school football program.

He said he recently got to tell some of his players about his experiences in high school and college. He hopes it might inspire a few of them to follow similar trajectories.

"It seems like a long time ago, but I think it's important for the kids to know where I'm from and what I've done," Rawlings said. "I want these guys to get excited and know that they can do this."

— Kyle Goon

kgoon@sltrib.com

Twitter: @kylegoon