The high school football season in Cincinnati has concluded, and the search for new coaching talent is heating up. Several schools are looking to fill head coaching positions, with some already making significant changes. The transition of leadership aims to revitalize programs that have faced challenges or seek continued success. Notable moves include Colerain hiring Jordan Stevens from Mount Healthy, while other schools like Blanchester, Loveland, and Sycamore are still searching for their new leaders.
Colerain's New Leadership and Other Coaching Changes
One of the most significant coaching moves involves Colerain, a once-dominant program that has struggled recently. After two winless seasons under Carl Huber, the school has appointed Jordan Stevens as the new head coach. Stevens brings a strong record from his time at Mount Healthy, where he led the Owls to considerable success. Meanwhile, other schools such as Gamble Montessori and Mount Healthy have also undergone leadership changes, reflecting broader shifts in the local football landscape.
Colerain, known for its past dominance in the Greater Miami Conference, has seen better days. From 2000 to 2019, the Cardinals consistently won conference titles and even claimed a state championship in 2004. However, recent years have been tough, culminating in back-to-back winless seasons. Jordan Stevens, a former defensive line and tight end player at Miami University, takes over after three successful seasons at Mount Healthy. His tenure there included leading the Owls to the Division II regional semifinals in 2024, demonstrating his ability to build a competitive team. Stevens' appointment signals Colerain's commitment to returning to glory. Additionally, Gamble Montessori saw Dave Brausch retire after just one year, with interim coach Will Davis stepping in. Davis, recognized for his contributions beyond the sidelines, will guide the Gators through this transitional period.
Open Positions and Future Prospects
Several schools in Cincinnati remain without a confirmed head coach for the upcoming season. Blanchester, Loveland, and Sycamore are among those actively seeking new leadership. Each school faces unique challenges and opportunities as they look to secure the right person to lead their football programs. The search process is crucial for setting the direction for these teams moving forward.
Blanchester, which parted ways with Justin Schmitz after two seasons, is preparing to interview candidates for its next head coach. Under Schmitz, the team achieved a respectable 11-10 record, including a playoff appearance in his first year. Loveland, meanwhile, is also in need of a new leader following Brian Damewood's departure after just one season. The Tigers finished 3-7 in 2024, highlighting the need for fresh energy and strategy. Similarly, Sycamore is set to begin interviews for a new coach after Scott Dattilo's retirement. Dattilo, who amassed an impressive 109-93 record over 19 seasons, was instrumental in transforming Sycamore into a consistent playoff contender. The school now looks to maintain that legacy under new management. Mount Healthy, too, must find a replacement for Stevens, aiming to continue its upward trajectory since 2022. With applications due by January 5, 2025, the community eagerly awaits the announcement of the Fighting Owls' new leader.