Since 1971, the Northampton football team has not seen many coaching changes.

The late Frank Tudryn coached for 29 years until 2000. Ken O’Brien followed and guided the Blue Devils until 2012.

From there, Pat Sledzieski took over until his resignation at the conclusion of the 2016 season.

Thus began a coaching search that ended with the introduction of Eddie Jewel on Friday.

At 27 years old, Jewel is taking his first head coaching job at any level.

“I am anxious for the season to be here,” Jewel said. “Big things can happen but it’s going to take some time. I am excited to help mold these young men.”

Jewel grew up in Amherst, and has admired the Blue Devils program from across the bridge.

“Growing up in Amherst, Northampton was one of our rivals,” Jewel said. “I’ve always had tremendous respect for their program, the town, and the way they run things. I am excited to be a part of this culture.”

Jewel met with some potential and returning football players for the first time Friday to discuss the direction of the program.

“In the short term I just want them to believe in themselves and me,” Jewel said. “Building a foundation for the future is the biggest goal.”

The Blue Devils have been a run-first team for the past 46 years. That is something that could change under Jewel, who prefers the spread offense.

“We’ll move the ball around and go spread a little bit,” Jewel said. “Defensively we will be aggressive. Think outside the box and force the offense into what we want them to do.”

Northampton graduated 18 seniors from last year’s 8-3 squad.

“I have big shoes to fill,” Jewel said. “It’s going to be a challenging task but that’s what was enticing about the job. I get the chance to build something.”

Jewel hopes to build a program that will attract more and more players.

On Friday, there were already some athletes who didn’t play football last season speaking with Jewel. Henry Doherty played as a freshman, but stopped to focus on basketball.

“With a new coach it seemed like a good opportunity to get back on board,” Doherty said. “He seems to be bringing promise in the program.”

Wide receiver Andy Gyrgorcewicz liked the hiring of Jewel.

“I have heard he has a lot of experience,” Grygorcewicz said. “I am excited for the season.”

Jewel left Amherst Regional after his sophomore year to attend Wilbraham & Monson, where he played football, basketball and track. He graduated in 2009 then played two years of football at Monmouth. He transferred to Bridgewater State where he finished his collegiate career as a cornerback.

Jewel was a student assistant at Bridgewater for one season, before becoming an assistant for two years.

He coached special teams and defensive backs last season at Worcester State.

“I enjoyed it and it’s been a passion ever since,” Jewel said.

Jewel works in the special education department at Amherst Regional Middle School.

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