News Summary
Wide receiver coach Steven Jerry is leaving Savannah State University after one season to take over as head football coach at his alma mater, Lyman High School in Florida. Jerry’s brief tenure at SSU was marked by significant offensive development, including the emergence of standout receiver DaShun Mitchell. With extensive coaching experience from various colleges and high school, Jerry aims to inspire young athletes at Lyman, reflecting a trend of coaches transitioning from collegiate to high school positions.
Irvine, California – Wide receiver coach Steven Jerry is departing from Savannah State University (SSU) after just one season to take on the role of head football coach at Lyman High School in Longwood, Florida. Lyman High School, located north of Orlando, holds significant personal importance for Jerry as he is a proud alumnus, having graduated from there in 1989.
During his brief tenure at SSU, Jerry was instrumental in developing an offense that ranked third in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) with an impressive average of 244.4 receiving yards per game. One of his notable achievements was coaching DaShun Mitchell, an all-conference wide receiver who made headlines by breaking Shannon Sharpe’s single-game receiving record with an astonishing 227 yards. Mitchell’s exceptional performance earned him a spot on the All-SIAC Team and participation in the HBCU Legacy Bowl.
Jerry brings a wealth of experience to his new position, having previously coached at various colleges, including Central Florida, William & Mary, East Tennessee State, Virginia State, Florida A&M, Benedict, and New Mexico Highlands. His experience extends beyond college football; in 2018, he led North Florida Christian School in Tallahassee, Florida, to a state championship during his time there as a high school coach.
His move to Lyman High School reflects a broader trend in football coaching, where various coaches have been transitioning out of collegiate roles, often citing pressures and challenges related to the high school football environment. This departure showcases the dynamic and often fluctuating landscape of coaching within the sport.
Coaching Impact and Records
Jerry’s contributions to the SSU football program were significant despite his short time with the team. Under his guidance, the wide receiving corps developed into a competitive unit that notably improved. His ability to mentor players culminated in producing standout performances, particularly with Mitchell, whose record-breaking game highlights the effectiveness of Jerry’s coaching methods.
Coaching Philosophy and Future Goals
As Jerry steps into his new role at Lyman High School, he aims to leverage his valuable coaching experience to cultivate talent at the high school level. His background in playing at the collegiate level, specifically as a wide receiver at the University of North Carolina, provides him with a rich understanding of the game that he intends to instill in his players. His previous success at North Florida Christian School also underscores a proven track record of leading teams to victory.
Context of Coaching Changes
The trend of coaches moving between collegiate and high school positions reflects the evolving nature of the sport. Factors contributing to this shift may include lifestyle preferences, the search for community connection, and the desire for a different type of coaching experience. For Jerry, returning to his roots in high school football represents an opportunity for personal and professional fulfillment as he aims to inspire the next generation of athletes.
In conclusion, with Steven Jerry’s move to Lyman High School, both Savannah State University and high school football in Florida will feel the impact of this transition. Jerry leaves behind a legacy of development and record-setting performances at SSU, while looking forward to shaping young talent at Lyman in the upcoming seasons.
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Additional Resources
- Savannah Tribune: SSU Assistant Takes High School Job
- Florida Gators: Florida Lacrosse Hires Jared Bernhardt as Assistant Coach
- Orlando Sentinel: Another Coach Resigns at Lyman High
- Rice Owls: Scott Abell Coaching Profile
- Click Orlando: CPL Bryant Bridges Gap as Youth Football Coach
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
