OAKWOOD – Jason Roquemore has stepped down as Johnson High School football coach according to JHS athletic director Johnathan Edwards Monday morning.
Roquemore led the Knights for seven seasons, finishing his career at Johnson with a 16–54 record.
"It’s been a blessing and honor for my family and me to work and serve JHS and the JHS community. It’s been a pleasure to watch our young men grow over the last seven years. My family is very thankful for the unconditional love and support we have received from our administration, faculty and community. JHS will always have a special place in my heart.”
In 2018, the Knights' 4-6 record was the best finish since Roquemore's first season at 7-4 in 2012 – a non-region schedule.
Edwards said his record was more than just wins and losses.
“Seven years ago, Coach Roquemore inherited a roster of just 22 players, and he has grown his program in not only numbers but into one that significantly impacts all aspects of our school and community," Edwards said. "Coach Roquemore is a tireless worker and runs a first-class program that develops our student-athletes as young people and teaches our core values. From my perspective, Coach Roquemore’s program is what education-based athletics is truly all about, and I can’t thank him enough. He will be missed, but we are happy for him and his family as they enter this new chapter of their life.”
JHS principal Stan Lewis also praised Roquemore and the impact he's made on the program.
“For seven years, I have had the honor of working alongside Jason Roquemore and watching him work with others to shape and mold the lives of so many young people," Lewis said. "He has played a critical role in helping us develop a culture at Johnson High School that benefits all students. His impact goes far beyond the football program and will be a permanent part of our school and community in moving forward. Jason is a special coach who, quite frankly, has the courage to see the bigger picture and refuses to allow character to take a “backseat” to the scoreboard. He has changed the lives of many for the better, and that includes me. I will miss my friend. We all will miss him, and we wish him and his family all the best as they begin this new leg of their journey.”