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Marana’s search to replace the popular Andy Litten as football coach had dragged on. Kingman High School’s Cam Wierson had been offered the job, but backed out following some community backlash. Some Tigers players weren’t happy that Wierson, who had struggled to build Kingman’s program in recent years, was the first choice.

The small-town drama didn’t discourage Ramirez. Instead, he turned to his mentors within the “fraternity of coaches� to learn more about the school.

“A lot of them had said this community is very passionate about football — there’s a lot of parent involvement, which for me is awesome,� Ramirez said. “If you can get a community that believes in what a coach wants to do and believes in the kids and the players that have come up playing with each other since they were little kids — that’s what you need for a successful program.�

And Marana has been successful. The Tigers are 4-2, and even though they’ve lost their last two games, they’re still ranked No. 13 in Class 5A. They’ll travel to No. 19 Ironwood Ridge on Friday.

Even with the bump in the road, Ramirez said he’s enjoyed his first season.

“It’s great to look behind you, when I’m on the sidelines on a Friday night, and the stands are packed,� Ramirez said. “That just shows you something about the community and their support, because that doesn’t happen everywhere.�

Ramirez can’t pinpoint what exactly has led Marana’s parents and fans to be so vocal and involved, but he believes it may just be the small-town community.

“A few college coaches have come out here and they call it the ‘Friday Night Lights’ of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥,â€� Ramirez said. “All we’re missing is the oil rigs. Everyone comes out here on Friday night because it’s the place to be.â€�

Ramirez has also surrounded himself with successful — and notable — assistants. The Tigers’ coaching staff boasts three former ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Wildcats: Kyle Quinn, a former offensive lineman who spent time as an offensive graduate assistant under former coach Rich Rodriguez; Vince Amey, who coached the defensive line last season; and former offensive lineman David Catalano.

Ramirez had to do some recruiting to fill up his staff, but he got it done.

“You don’t need 20 guys to have a great staff,� Ramirez said. “I think, if you have four, five quality coaches that understand the game plan — understand the offense, defense, special teams and what you’re trying to get coached and what you’re trying to accomplish – you can piece together some things.�

Before the start of the season, Ramirez’s goals included a slight change in culture. Marana is known for its high-scoring offense, but the new coach wanted to build up a defense just as strong. Ramirez also wanted to make sure to provide his athletes with the skills needed outside of football.

Of course, Ramirez would also like to make a run in the state playoffs.

“For me, I’m not worried about where we’re at ranking-wise,� Ramirez said. “That’s why I always say our focus is to go 1-0 each and every week. So, we’re not worried about the outcome, we’re worried about the process it’s going to take to get there.�