Johnsrud steps down as Wolves head football coach
Titus Stenberg
Farmer Sports Writer
It’s the end of an era in Watford City, as Justin Johnsrud informed his players on Friday morning that he is stepping down as Head Football Coach.
“I’ve been coaching for 25 years, including 17 years in Watford City,” said Johnsrud. “Seven years as defensive coordinator under Coach Fred Fridley, then the last 10 as head coach.” Fridley and Johnsrud are the only head coaches Watford City football has had in the last 52 years, continuity rarely seen at any coaching position.
“The decision was purely based on my family,” continued Johnsrud. “The past two-and-a-half years have been an emotional rollercoaster for our family with the loss of my daughter and father, two of my biggest fans. Coaching families have to make concessions during the season. The family plans have to be based around the season. With Judd leaving for college, I couldn’t put football ahead of all the family things we will have going on in the coming years. It wouldn’t be fair to the football family, if I can’t be fully committed.”