Fraley had been acting head coach after being an assistant coach for former head coach Todd Phillips, who resigned last month. Fraley told his players the news Saturday.

"He's had an outstanding history with these guys, and last year he led the state's No. 1 defense, so it was an easy choice," said Chris Perk, Homer High's athletic director.

The Mariners take the field for their first game of the new season on Aug. 10, when they will face Anchorage Christian School.