The Spring Garden Panthers on Tuesday night re-hired Jason Howard as head football coach. Howard takes over for John McKay, whose resignation was recently accepted by the Cherokee County Board of Education. 

In Howard’s first tour at Spring Garden (2003-09) he brought respectability the football program had never experienced before. The Panthers made the post-season in 2008 and 2009. The team’s 9-3 record in 2008 remains the best in Spring Garden football history.  

Two years ago, Howard left Spring Garden to return to his alma mater. A 1989 graduate of Ohatchee, Howard had high hopes of turning around his hometown program. But his expectations of returning the Indians to the level of success he enjoyed during his playing days as a two-way lineman didn’t materialize.

Having spent the 20 previous years coaching in Cherokee County, Howard realized that home sometimes means something different.

“I have so built some solid friendships in Cherokee County and the memories here have been awesome,” he said. “I’m glad to have this opportunity to be back coaching at Spring Garden.” 

The first to call and welcome Howard back to his second home was his old friend and mentor, Sand Rock head coach Russell Jacoway.

“Coach Jacoway called me after the board meeting at Sand Rock and told me congratulations,” Howard said. “He is the dean of coaching and someone that has helped out so many football coaches. You really couldn’t ask for a better friend.”   

Within minutes of his hiring, Howard was already thinking about getting the Panthers ready to play football. 

“I’ve got a meeting with the team tomorrow morning,” Howard said Tuesday night. “I know it’s a good group of kids.  Some, I have seen and coached before.  I’ve certainly kept up with them, although I haven’t seen them play in the last two years.  They are pretty familiar with the system.  Coach McKay and I go back a good bit.” 

Because the two coaches have worked together Howard expects the transition to be seamless. He has already talked to McKay about remaining on staff. 

“Coach McKay is an asset to the Panther football program,” Howard said. “I would love to have him in any capacity.  It’s his call on what he would like to do.”   

The Panthers are members of Class 1A Region 7, which has been buffed up to include nine teams. This fall the Panthers face regional opposition from Cedar Bluff, Gaylesville, Collinsville, Coosa Christian, Donoho, Jacksonville Christian, Valley Head, and Woodville.  

Fans will get their first official look at the 2012 Panthers when they face the Fayetteville Wolves on Friday, Aug. 31.

Howard is already thinking about finding an opponent for a spring game. 

“We don’t have one scheduled right now,” he said. “But, I’m going to get on the phone and see what I can do about putting something on the calendar.  I know these boys want to get after it and I’m looking forward to getting started.”