Montclair High School Head Football Coach Jermain Johnson was selected as a coach in the Phil Simms North-South All-Star Football Classic being held on June 9 at Kean University. He is one of only 24 coaches chosen from the 386 football-playing high schools in New Jersey. They join Honorary North Coach and former New York Giants player Stephen Baker (1987-1992). The prestigious high school football matchup is named after the legendary New York Giants quarterback and affords athletes the opportunity to showcase their talents and enjoy the spirit of camaraderie with their fellow teammates from across the state.
In addition to Coach Johnson, Mounties senior defensive back David Thom-Rogers was also selected to represent Montclair on the North Team. Thom-Rodgers has committed to playing for Army West Point in the fall.
Johnson, in just his second year as Head Coach, led the Mounties to the North 1 Group 5 state finals in November. This season the team had some big back-to-back wins, beating Columbia, 42-7, in regular season, and 19-7 in the state playoff opener. The team fell short of the state title, losing to Passaic County Tech in the sectional game but ended the season 8-4.
“To coach in the North-South Game is a big honor. I am so proud of our staff and our student athletes for making this happen,” said Johnson. “I am mostly proud to be coaching one of our own players. What an amazing way to send our senior off to college. This makes it extra special to coach in this game.”
Rogers caught 27 passes for 534 yards and seven touchdown passes. He made first team all-league, first team all-county, third team all-state, and made the Super 100 Team for the state of New Jersey. “I couldn't be more proud of him, and this journey that he's about to go on,” added Johnson.
Congratulations Coach Johnson and Thom-Rogers! We look forward to cheering you on in the Big Game!