KALKASKA - The Kalkaska football program has hired Darren Conklin to serve as its new varsity head coach for the 2026 season. Conklin replaces Jeremy Wilkinson, who retired at the end of last season following an 18-year tenure leading the team.
Kalkaska Athletic Director Jeremy Guggemos confirmed the hire today, noting that the school is excited to welcome a coach with a history of success. Guggemos described the new head coach as a “proven winner” who leads with a disciplined approach. “He is the embodiment of ‘Speak softly and carry a big stick,’” Guggemos said.
Conklin previously served as the head coach at his alma mater, Plainwell High School. His tenure began in 2009 and lasted for a decade. While the program struggled during his first two seasons with records of 2-7 and 0-9, Conklin led a significant turnaround during his third year. In 2011, he guided the Trojans to a 7-4 record and the school’s first playoff appearance since 2001.Throughout his 10 years leading Plainwell, the Trojans achieved a cumulative record of 56-44. Under Conklin’s leadership, the team qualified for the playoffs in seven of those 10 years. After leaving Plainwell, he worked as an assistant varsity coach at Galesburg-Augusta High School from 2021 to 2022 before taking a break from coaching.
Conklin has a personal history with football in the state, having served as a walk-on player at the University of Michigan. He is also the father of Jack Conklin, a current NFL offensive lineman who played his collegiate career at Michigan State University.
The Kalkaska football team is scheduled to begin the 2026 season under Conklin’s leadership.