John Livengood's retirement letter

NORWALK — Longtime St. Paul football coach John Livengood announced his retirement after 33 seasons and a 310-87 record at the school on Dec. 8. Livengood — who will be inducted into the Ohio High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2024 — read a statement in a video released by the school on Friday. Below is the full statement: "Flyer football fans, After 36 years of coaching, including the last 33 years as the head football coach of the St. Paul Flyers, I have decided that it is time for me to retire from coaching. This decision came through a lot of thought, prayer, and discussion with my family. I have been involved in football for much of my life. I played football from the time I was in fifth grade through my senior year in college and enjoyed every minute of it. I have coached for 36 years, and all told, I spent the last 48 years of my life on the football field. Football and coaching are both things that I love dearly and will continue to love. I enjoyed coaching this season as much as any other season I have coached. I am not burnt out or wanting to do something else. There are other factors that have brought me to this decision. Over the last five years, I have dealt with some serious personal health problems. I need to make my own health a priority. In addition, my mom has serious health issues and caring for her is very important to me. I now have six grandchildren and a six-year-old son. I need to spend more time with my wife, my children, and my grandchildren. I am looking forward to having experiences with my family that I haven't been able to have while coaching. Discipline has always been a foundational element to my approach to football and life. Part of my own self-discipline is knowing when it's time, but also leaving with the program strong and ready for the next chapter. I have been blessed to have the love and support of my family throughout my career. My wife Kris has been the best supporter and coach's wife that you could ask for. I have had a fantastic and dedicated group of assistant coaches, many of whom are family and former players. They have been like brothers to me. Tom Baker has been my right-hand an for the last 32 years and someone who I could always count on. I have had a school administration that has always supported me. The parent and booster support at St. Paul is second to none. Most importantly, the dedication, work ethic, and commitment of our players over the last 33 years is what has set our program apart. I am forever grateful that Denny Doughty gave me the opportunity to lead our football program back in 1991. Having these great people surrounding me is why we have been successful. I look forward to remaining in my role as Dean of Students and Athletic Director, and continuing to support our students and athletes. I am confident that we will have the next leader of our football program in place very quickly. Thank you for a great 33 seasons! Go Flyers!" — John Livengood