November 9th 2024.
In an exclusive interview with the Bay Area News Group, Branham's head football coach, Stephen Johnson, revealed that he will be stepping down from his position after the 2024 season. This decision was not an easy one for Johnson, who has been at the helm of the Bruins' team since 2018. After much contemplation, he realized that he needed to prioritize his own well-being and make a change in his career.
"I've always been a selfless person, putting everything else before myself," Johnson shared. "But I've come to the realization that it's time for me to focus on my own growth and stability, both financially and emotionally."
During his seven years as head coach, Johnson has led the Bruins to an impressive record of 50-22. Under his leadership, the team has moved up from the Santa Teresa Division to the Mt. Hamilton Division, reaching the CCS Division IV championship in 2022. Johnson also helped the Bruins secure league championships in 2019, 2022, and 2023.
While coaching the Bruins, Johnson has also worked as a substitute teacher. Although he loves working with the players, he has come to a point where he needs to prioritize his professional career over his passion for coaching.
"I'm not just looking for a teaching position, I'm looking for any job that will provide me with stability and benefits," Johnson explained. "I need to be able to support myself and not worry about going hungry during the summer when I don't have work as a substitute teacher."
Johnson made the difficult decision to inform his players of his departure after their recent win against Leigh. He shared that leaving the Bruins is not easy for him, as being their head coach has been a huge part of his identity.
"Being the head coach at Branham is more than just a job for me, it's a part of who I am," Johnson said. "It's definitely a tough pill to swallow, but I know it's the right decision for me at this point in my life."
Johnson will be finishing out the season with the Bruins as they head into the CCS playoffs with a 7-3 record and a third-place finish in the BVAL Mt. Hamilton Division. He remains committed to helping his players achieve their goals and become the best versions of themselves on and off the field.
His decision to step down is not related to the recent change in Branham's athletic director, but he admits that it does make it easier for him to say goodbye. The Bruins hired a new AD, Kaleb Lane, at the beginning of the academic year.
"I have a great relationship with Landon Jacobs, the former AD, and I see him as a role model and father figure," Johnson shared. "But ultimately, this decision is not affected by who the AD is. I've been putting myself on the back burner for too long, and it's time for a change."
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