Coach Cade Harelson is in his second year on the Hornet coaching staff as linebackers coach. 
 
In his first season on the Hornet coaching staff, Harelson coached Chance Rodriguez to All-MIAA Third Team honors in 2023.
 
As a student athlete, Harelson was a four-year letterman at linebacker for the Hornets from 2017 to 2022.  In 43 games, Harelson recorded 214 total tackles.  Harelson earned All-MIAA honorable mention honors in 2021 and was selected MVP of the Hornets 48-27 win over Southeastern Oklahoma in the 2022 Live United Bowl.   
 
Harelson graduated from Emporia State in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in health and human performance and a minor in coaching.  Harelson earned a master’s degree from Emporia State in health, physical education and coaching in 2023.
 
Harelson and his wife Tori are expecting their first child.