The Johnson football program has hired Hephizbah's William Harrell as its next head coach, Johnson Athletics Director Tony Wagner confirmed Friday afternoon.
Harrell compiled a record of 29-16 and 3 playoff appearances while at Hephizbah, and he looks forward to the new opportunity he has at Johnson.
“I am honored and excited to be named the new Varsity Head Football Coach at Johnson High School,” said Harrell. “Special thanks to Johnathan Edwards for giving me this dream opportunity of being able to be near my hometown of Atlanta, and a special thank you to Tony Wagner, the Athletic Director, for his communication throughout the process…I am excited to meet the players, coaches, parents, faculty, staff, alumni, stakeholders, media, and community!"
Wagner feels Harrell is a good fit for the Knights. “As we got to know Coach Harrell,” he stated, “it became evident he shares the same values and beliefs as our school and community. After speaking with others, we learned of his humility and his putting kids first mentality. We look forward to Coach Harrell leading our football program and reinforcing the culture of our school and community through his teaching and coaching.”
Associate Principal Jonathan Edwards, who led the interview process, is equally excited to have Harrell join the Knight Nation.
“Coach Harrell is a man of high-character, a proven program-builder, and an excellent teacher of the game,” Edwards stated. “He has high expectations for everyone who is a part of the program, and we are very excited to have him lead Johnson Knight football.”
Harrell will also teach physical education for Johnson High School.
