Freeport names new varsity football coach

The Freeport School District Board of Education convened on March 6, during which they sanctioned the appointment of Jimmy Jones as the latest head coach for the Freeport High School varsity football team.

Jones assumes the role previously held by Russ Cellan, who retired from his coaching position.

Dr. Kishore Kuncham, Superintendent of Schools, expressed enthusiasm about Jones’s appointment, stating, “From a very early age, Jimmy Jones has always dreamed of becoming the varsity football head coach. Now that dream has become a reality.

“He has all the coaching skills and knowledge to lead our athletes to achieve even greater success and the personal values and characteristics to serve as their role model.”

Bringing over two decades of football coaching experience to the position, Jones has worked at various levels, including middle school, junior varsity, and college.

Prior to his tenure with the Freeport coaching staff, Jones showcased his talent as a player at Freeport High School, where he served as captain.

He later earned a Division I football scholarship to Hofstra University, where he continued to demonstrate leadership as team captain.

According to Johnathan Bloom, Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics, Jones’s deep-rooted connection to Freeport makes him an ideal candidate for the role.

“Jimmy Jones is a hometown guy who came up through the system. He’s been part of the Freeport football program since he started playing in middle school,” Bloom remarked.

“It has been a huge part of his life. He’s well prepared to take on this new role, and we couldn’t be more excited to see him take this next step in his athletic coaching career.”

Having served as a dedicated varsity football assistant coach at Freeport High School for the past 17 years, Jones has demonstrated his commitment and value to the team.

In his role as defensive coordinator, he provided leadership and guidance to various positions, including running backs, linebackers, defensive backs, and wide receivers.

Additionally, Jones actively engaged in professional development, attending numerous football coaching conferences and workshops, including several national high school football conferences.

“To have worn the Freeport ‘F’ as a player and now as the head coach of the varsity football program is an amazing feeling,” Jones reflected.

“I am looking forward to continuing to give back to the community that has given so much to me.”

With Jimmy Jones at the helm, Freeport High School’s varsity football team anticipates a promising future filled with dedication, skill, and community spirit.