Peyton named Warriors’ new head football coach | News, Sports, Jobs

Photo by Kerry Patrick
New Warren head football coach Jimmy Peyton, left, makes his debut during an introductory press conference Tuesday at Warren High School in Vincent. Sitting next to Peyton is his wife, Megan.

VINCENT — Two names immediately came to mind when newly-appointed Warren football coach Jimmy Peyton stated what he knew about the Warriors’ returning prospects.

Running back Jason Williams rushed for a school-record 381 yards in last season’s opener against Belpre, while Trent Taylor returns at quarterback.

“(Williams and Taylor), those are two kids that stick out out right away,” said Peyton, who was hired by the school board on Monday night then formally introduced to the public during Tuesday’s press conference inside the high school’s commons area. “They have an incredibly high ceiling with a lot of talent. They are hard workers.

“Taylor is 6-foot-5, maybe 6-6 with a great frame. He throws the ball well. I think Williams is the second-rated back in Southeast Ohio, so I am really excited about that.”

Peyton, who is the all-time leading passer at both Ironton High School and Joliet College (Ill.), has the type of pedigree which should benefit Taylor. Peyton was named an all-state quarterback on two occasions at Ironton and led the Tigers to the Division V state championship game in 1999. During his junior college career, he led Joliet College to the NJCAA championship.

The offensive numbers glitter Peyton’s background as assistant coach during his stops at Indian River High School (N.Y.), South Point High School (Ohio), Arizona Western College (JUCO), Garden City Community College (Kansas) and Ashland Paul Blazer High School (Ky.).

Peyton’s one previous head coaching position landed him at Missouri Military Academy. In Peyton’s first season, the academy finished 5-3 — the program’s first winning season in 34 years.

“I know there are going to be years where we will have to play to the personnel,” Peyton said. “We may not be able to be spread and wide open as much as I like to do, and sometimes we may have a better defense than an offense. What we do will come with the talent.”

Sitting alongside coach Peyton at the press conference were his wife, Megan, and 13-year-old son James.

“If I have to give any credit, it has to go my wife and son — that’s kind of how this works,” Peyton said. “My wife is the best thing that has happened to me. If it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t be sitting here.”

Peyton served as a Ranger in the United States Army for nine years. Philosophies used in coaching have a connection with his military background.

“Absolutely you will see the military background,” Peyton said. “The accountability, structure and discipline — sometimes that kind of thing scares people off. By no means is it to avert, but I think it is important in this age group have structure, guidance and be mentored. I think it will help create better young men and human beings.”

Peyton is seeking to restore stability for a Warren football program which has witnessed the revolving door effect. Peyton becomes the 23rd football coach in program history and the 12th since 2000.

“I need to be able to gain their trust and let them know I am going to have some longevity here,” Peyton said. “I want to kids to know and understand that the way we start doing it will be the way it will be done for a long time.”

Contact Kerry Patrick at [email protected]