JHS will face off with Lawrence Central tonight

by Austin Bainbridge

New JHS football coach Nick Cotner came into the position in mid-July, five months later than every head coach in the area after former head coach Doug Preston resigned. However, he still feels ready for this season.

“We haven’t felt rushed since most of these guys have run spread before; they know the formations. It’s all just a different name. I feel like we’re ready,” said Cotner, who previously coached at Scottsburg.

Cotner knows that coming in so late means he still needs to find a connection with his players to lead to success.

“Players don’t care what you know until they know you care. So I make sure everybody knows I’m here to stay and I want what’s best for them,” he said.

Players said they feel how much Cotner cares and wants success for the Red Devils.

“He really wants to win here and not quit on Jeff. He really wants to build a program here where we can win every year,” said sophomore linebacker General McLain.

The players can also feel the trust their new coach has in them.

“Cotner really helps me to be the best player, he believes in me even though I’m undersized for my position,” said junior center Jacob Fifer.

Cotner wants to be a mainstay at JHS and the local community.

“I’m here to stay. I want to build a real program here. I’ve been to a couple of the middle school practices so they can know who I am. I’ve lived here since 2020, so I really feel like part of a community,” he said.

Even with most doubting the team with Cotner at the helm, the players still have confidence.

“He’s (Cotner) just such a great guy. He really keeps us in check, and I even think with him we could go 9-0 this year,” said junior tight end and defensive end Tristan Newby.

Even in his short tenure as head coach, Cotner has already gained respect from his team.

“He’s really stepped in like a good leader. Everyone has to earn reps, and he often says that small things lead to big things. I think that really helps us stay focused, especially at practice,” said freshman lineman Collin Kenedy.

Cotner still tries to relate to his players to understand what they are going through and how to get them to perform better.

“I think I’m a detail-oriented coach; we hold our players to standards. I think being a young coach –  I’m only 36 – they can still see that I’ve played the game, and I feel like they know I care,” said Cotner.

The players don’t have blind confidence in their coach, but also because they’ve seen his success.

“Scottsburg has won sectionals, which we haven’t done. And he’s bringing a winning mentality. Along with giving everyone goals,” said McLain.

Even with all the expectations surrounding the team, Cotner still takes time to reflect on his success.

“Ever since I was 16, I’ve dreamed of being a head coach. So this is truly a dream come true, even if it’s an unconventional way of getting the job, I’m grateful,” said Cotner.

The Red Devils play at Lawrence Central tonight.