Heath McKinniss is in his second season as an assistant coach for Rio Grande men's program. McKinniss has taught at Jackson Middle School since 2004. During  that time he served as assistant varsity boys coach for Jackson High School in 2004-2005  and was varsity girls head coach at Jackson from 2005-2007. Prior to his stint at Jackson, McKinniss was assistant varsity boys coach at Gallia Academy from 2000-2004.

      Heath graduated from Rio Grande in 2001 with a degree in Elementary Education. He, along with his wife, Melissa, who graduated from Rio Grande in 2002 reside in Jackson with their son Garrett. Melissa teaches third grade in Wellston. He replaces longtime assistant Thad Haines.