Note: Clea McCaa is the mayor of Sierra Vista who contributes photos and stories to AllSportsTucson.com.
In Cochise County, the name Mark Dannels carries a reputation built on decades of service — not just behind a badge, but on wrestling mats, baseball diamonds, and athletic fields. Sheriff Dannels is a man who leads by example in every arena he enters, and his commitment to the young people of Sierra Vista is as defining as his storied career in law enforcement.
A 42-year veteran of law enforcement, Sheriff Dannels has served as the 26th Cochise County Sheriff since November 2012, elected by the citizens of Cochise County to uphold their quality of life and protect their freedoms.
But when the workday ends, many of times Dannels adds a whistle with his badge — and the results speak for themselves.
As the head coach of the American Leadership Academy-Sierra Vista wrestling and soccer programs, Sheriff Dannels has quickly made his mark. Sheriff Dannels was asked to develop the ALA wrestling & soccer (boys & girls) programs and currently both programs are moving forward.
Sheriff Dannels stated that he would continue to coach the girls as they build upon a program and get back into the state playoffs this year.
Though the ALA-Sierra Vista program has only been in existence for two years, the soccer team has wasted no time building a culture of winning, compiling an impressive 5-1 record — a testament to the standard of excellence Dannels instills from day one. Alongside soccer, he also coaches ALA’s wrestlers, bringing the same intensity and discipline to the mat that has defined his coaching philosophy for nearly three decades.
That philosophy was forged over 28 years on the sidelines. Sheriff Dannels served as the former varsity wrestling and soccer coach at Buena High School, where he built a program rooted in grit, accountability, and character development.
His coaching resume extends to baseball as well, rounding out a body of work that spans multiple sports and generations of athletes.
What sets Sheriff/Coach Dannels apart is not just the wins — it’s the mission. He is deeply committed to developing young men and women into the best athletes and people they can be, understanding that the discipline learned in sport carries over into every aspect of life. For Sheriff Dannels, coaching is an extension of the same values that drive his law enforcement career: leadership, integrity, and an unwavering investment in the community.
Whether he is patrolling the county, mentoring a young wrestler, or drawing up a game plan for his soccer squad, Sheriff Mark Dannels embodies what it means to be a servant leader — He is a coach, a mentor, a protector, and an inspiration — and when it comes to the youth of Arizona, there is no other Sheriff in the state more committed to their growth, their future, and their success than Sheriff Mark Dannels.
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