The Natchitoches City Chiefs football program, which serves students from Natchitoches Junior High, Natchitoches Magnet, and NSU Middle Lab, has officially announced its 2025 assistant coaching staff under the leadership of Head Coach Brian Young.
Coach Young expressed his enthusiasm for building a team of dedicated coaches who not only love football but also understand the importance of teaching and mentoring youth while supporting the Natchitoches community.
“The program has found its true essence through these men,” said Coach Young. “They bring priceless value to our program because they love both children and football, as well as our community. I am deeply appreciative of their dedication to put in both the time and energy needed to develop the future football talents of Natchitoches.”
Meet the 2025 Assistant Coaches
Coach Louis Melancon Jr.
A California native, Coach Melancon graduated from Dominguez High School in 1989 before earning his associate’s degree in health and physical education from Los Angeles Valley Junior College in 1991. He continued his football journey at Grambling State University, playing under the legendary Coach Eddie Robinson. After leaving Grambling in 1993, he spent three years playing semi-professional football in Arizona. Today, his athletic dedication is focused on youth coaching. As a father of three and grandfather of three, he is passionate about developing young people who will shape the future. “I am grateful for this chance to serve the community,” Melancon shared.
Coach Richard Paul Moody Jr.
A proud Natchitoches native, Coach Moody attended Natchitoches Central High School, where he developed his lifelong dedication to his hometown. He has coached with the NJH football program for the past decade and also spent four years mentoring baseball players. At 48 years old, Moody and his wife, Jackie Perry Moody, have been married for 20 years and have five children and four grandchildren. His strong family values and coaching experience bring stability and strength to the Chiefs’ program.
Coach Rick Terrell
Coach Terrell brings both athletic and business expertise to the program. A four- year football letterman at Liberty University, Class of 1978, he played defensive back and handled punt return duties. In his final two years, he earned All-Defensive honors after intercepting 16 passes and averaging 19 yards per punt return. Terrell previously coached at Calvary Baptist High School before building a successful business career, founding and expanding Terrell Brothers Furniture into four locations. Now retired from business, he is committed to helping Natchitoches football thrive, believing that strong junior high feeder programs are the key to long- term success.
Coach Henry McSheppard Sr.
A former Natchitoches Central High School running back, Coach McSheppard is recognized for his discipline and leadership on and off the field. A devoted husband and father of four, he is deeply committed to faith, family, and community. He dedicates his time to mentoring young athletes, instilling character, values, and perseverance. His coaching goal is to develop student-athletes into responsible leaders through mentorship, faith-based service, and volunteerism.
Coach Chioke Helaire
A Natchitoches native and 1996 NCHS graduate, Coach Helaire excelled in football, soccer, track and field, and ROTC during high school before serving eight years in the Army National Guard. He later earned his degree in Recreation and Leisure Studies from Grambling State University while playing football. With more than 20 years of involvement in youth sports, Helaire has given back to the community through coaching football and basketball, mentoring, and volunteering. While running his own business, he remains committed to service and mentorship. His work with NJH’s football program reflects his dedication to local youth and his pursuit of excellence.
The 2025 assistant coaching staff combines expertise, leadership, and a deep sense of community. Together with Head Coach Brian Young, the Natchitoches City Chiefs’ coaching team embodies the values of inclusiveness, teamwork, and mentorship. The program looks ahead to a promising future under their guidance.
