Huntington High School Welcomes New Head Football Coach

News Summary

Huntington High School introduces John Simon as the new head football coach, succeeding Stephen Dennis. Simon, a Baton Rouge native with a successful college career and NFL experience, is set to lead the Raiders into a new competitive chapter as they move up to 5A football. With a rich coaching background, Simon aims to build on the foundation left by Dennis and inspire the team with his passion for the game and commitment to community values.

Exciting Changes at Huntington High School: Meet the New Head Football Coach

Huntington, get ready to welcome your new head football coach, John Simon! He steps into the role following Stephen Dennis, who recently took a position as head coach at Benton High School. After a solid run with a record of 44 wins and 41 losses over seven seasons, Dennis leaves the Raiders with a strong foundation, capstoning the 2024 season at 6-6. The transition comes at an intriguing time as the school has just moved up from 4A to 5A in the competitive world of high school football.

Who is John Simon?

John Simon isn’t just any coach – he’s a proud Baton Rouge native with a rich history in football. A talented athlete during his college years at Louisiana Tech between 1998 and 2001, Simon made quite an impression. He racked up over 4,000 all-purpose yards and stretched his record-breaking streak by catching a pass for an incredible 36 consecutive games – a then-NCAA record! His senior year was particularly memorable as he played a crucial role in helping Louisiana Tech secure its first-ever Western Athletic Conference (WAC) championship and make a bowl appearance after an exhausting 11-year wait.

A Coaching Background to Impress

Simon’s coaching journey is just as impressive as his playing days. He has served as an offensive coordinator at well-known programs such as Memphis and Grambling State. His coaching resume also features stints at Southern Miss, Louisiana-Lafayette, and Arizona State. Just last year, he was a finalist for the head coach position at Grambling State, highlighting his rising profile in the coaching arena.

Experience Beyond College

Not only does Simon come with coaching experience, but he also has the exceptional advantage of having played in the NFL. His three-year career saw him don the jerseys of the Tennessee Titans and the Washington Redskins. With such a well-rounded background, Simon brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his new position.

A Family Affair

Football runs in the family for John Simon. His oldest son, John Simon IV, is currently making his mark at Louisiana Tech, while his youngest son, James Simon, has just wrapped up his high school football career at Calvary Baptist and is headed for the University of Texas. With a passion for the game flowing through the family, it will be exciting to see how this influences Simon’s coaching style.

A Legacy of Giving Back

Throughout his career, Simon has been more than just a player and coach; he’s also been recognized for his contributions off the field. In his senior year, he received the Humanitarian Award at the Humanitarian Bowl and was gifted the prestigious Louisiana Tech President’s Award. These accolades illustrate his commitment not only to football but also to making a positive impact in his community.

Looking Ahead

As John Simon steps into this new role at Huntington High School, the excitement is palpable. With a fresh perspective, extensive experience, and a clear passion for the game, he’s poised to ignite a new chapter for the Raiders. As they gear up for the challenges of the 5A division, fans and players alike are eager to see how Simon will shape the Raiders’ future. One thing is certain: a thrilling football season is ahead!