Flores Undergoes Lung Transplant Surgery, Oates Named Interim Head Football Coach

Flores Undergoes Lung Transplant Surgery, Oates Named Interim Head Football Coach

Aaron Flores on the sideline during a game in 2016.

Coffeyville Community College Head Football Coach Aaron Flores received the call he has been waiting on for months on Sunday, and he immediately made the trip to Omaha, Neb. to receive a double lung transplant. Flores has been dealing with acute interstitial pneumonia for approximately 12 years. The surgery was performed on Monday, and Flores will be required to remain near Omaha for several months as doctors will closely monitor the transplants.

During Flores' absence, Assistant Head Coach Cody Oates has been appointed Interim Head Football Coach. Oates, originally from Topeka, Kan., joined the CCC Staff in 2016.  

“Cody has been an excellent addition to the CCC football coaching staff,” said Athletic Director Jeff Leiker.  “When planning for this day, and evaluating our options to ensure consistency and maintain a quality program for our athletes and the institution, Cody was the logical choice to step in during this time.”  

“The Red Raven family has been anxiously awaiting this day.  We will continue to keep Coach Flores and his family in our thoughts as they travel the next path of this journey to better health,” said CCC President Linda Moley.