Former Englewood High School star athlete, Johnson, has been named the new head football coach at his alma mater. Having spent the past four seasons as the defensive coordinator under Zach Harbison, Johnson is now ready to lead a team of young athletes from his old neighborhood.
“It was honestly a dream come true,” Johnson said. “I’m an Englewood guy. I graduated from Englewood. I went there from ninth to 12th grade and it was always something that I wanted to do after college, (to) be the head coach.”
A Heart for Englewood and its Community
Johnson’s deep connection with Englewood and its surrounding neighborhood is evident. Growing up within walking distance of the school, Johnson went on to earn a football scholarship to Missouri and later returned to Jacksonville to play baseball at UNF.
New Head Football Coach at Englewood High School. Johnson’s main goal is to have a positive impact on the local kids, saying,
“I really just want to have a great effect on the kids from that neighborhood. I’m from that neighborhood. I used to walk to school. I went to Southside Middle School. I went to Greenville Elementary. I went to Little Englewood. So that is my community and I want to make it proud.”
Success as a Player and Defensive Coordinator
As a player, Johnson quarterbacked the Rams to their only playoff victory. As a defensive coordinator, his defense held the opposition to under 20 points in six out of 10 games in 2023.
Now taking over a team with a 4-5 record last year, Johnson is eager to implement a defensive mentality across the entire roster.
Building Trust and Fostering Personal Growth
One of the most important milestones for a new coach is to earn the trust of the players. Johnson already has an advantage in this area, thanks to his history in the community and his ability to relate to the players
My Last Words!
Englewood High School celebrates Johnson’s return as the new head football coach, uniting passion and experience to invigorate the team and elevate the entire community’s spirit. A new era of Rams football begins!
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