Same faces, different places…Conner, Holmes, Simon Kenton have new coaches

Across northern Kentucky, several high school football programs will enter the fall with new leadership with each change driven by different circumstances, but none involving a stranger to the sidelines. From Hebron to Covington to Independence, veteran coaches and longtime assistants with deep local ties are stepping into new roles.

Noel Rash, Conner

Conner will have a new leader on the sidelines this fall, but it’s a name familiar to nearly every football fan in northern Kentucky.

Former Beechwood coaching legend Noel Rash takes over the Cougars, stepping into the role after the unexpected passing of longtime head coach Dave Trosper in June.

“The difficult part is the balance between your emotions and making sure you’re running the program and getting better every day,” Rash said. “That’s never an easy task even when you don’t have this kind of emotional transition.”

Rash’s success speaks for itself, as Beechwood won eight state titles and 200 games during his remarkable tenure in Fort Mitchell, a stretch of dominance that cemented him among the most respected and decorated coaches in the state.

There’s a reason he’s been so successful, and that was seen right away by the Cougars.

“My first impression of him was like, ‘This guy means business,'” senior quarterback Grayson Montgomery said. “He demands respect in the room when he’s talking, and everything he says is legit. He’s got a great reputation, and I can see why already through practices. He’s a great coach and an even better guy.”

It may be a new setting, but the standard hasn’t changed. With Rash now steering the ship, Conner will be charging ahead, carrying the memory of Trosper during every snap.

Joe Wynn, Simon Kenton

Some Pioneer players did their homework when Joe Wynn was hired, and it didn’t take long for them to understand what he brings to the table.

“We were excited knowing he was coming here,” said senior linebacker Brayden Schoborg. “We saw that he did a great job at Newport and Mason County, and we trust in him and have faith that he’ll have us in position to compete and win on Friday nights.”

At Newport, he took over a program that had just three wins in the three years prior to his arrival and led the Wildcats to 18 victories in his three seasons. At Mason County, he posted a 36-14 record over four years, including a state semifinal run in 2022.

Wynn has already started reshaping the culture in Independence, earning trust and laying the groundwork for success.

“He’s brought a new demeanor, a winning attitude every day,” said junior Kyle King. “He pushes us and teaches us. We’re getting better every day.”

Wynn’s approach is consistent, regardless of school size or classification, connecting with the community and players. He’s energized the program with purpose.

“Football is football, but it’s about building relationships,” Wynn said. “We recently had a team picnic with nearly 200 people. We’re building a community, from youth league to varsity, and we’re going to build confidence, toughness, and a new identity.”

Jon Hopkins, Holmes

“Coach Hopkins” may hold a new title, but he’s no stranger to 2500 Madison Avenue in Covington.

Whether it’s in the counseling office, on the track, or now as interim head football coach, Jon Hopkins has long been a fixture at Holmes High School. His involvement across multiple areas and his consistent presence have made him one of the school’s most trusted figures.

He’s not easing into this position, nor does he want to.

“Counselor is a year-round position, football is pretty much year-round, and we jump right into track after football season,” Hopkins said. “There’s no downtime, but I think it’s good for me because I want to stay involved with the kids and they’ve been great kids.”

That constant presence and connection across sports and school life has already made a noticeable impact on a program hoping to snap a two-year losing streak.

“I was really excited when he took the role of head coach,” said sophomore Devon Dunaway. “I’ve been around him for about four years, and he’s always been a great coach to me, both in track and football. He keeps things real with us, and he also has these analogies that are kind of funny.”

Hopkins isn’t promising immediate wins or quick fixes, for a program searching for traction, sometimes the best move forward starts with someone who’s already been there all along.