Montgomery Catholic names new head football coach

Johnathan Chandler – Photo from Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School

The Class 5A state champion Montgomery Catholic Knights have named a new head football coach.

Jonathan Chandler will lead the Knights this season. He comes to Catholic from the Pike Road Patriots, where he was offensive coordinator. 

Chandler is an Opelika native and a former Troy University football player. He served as a graduate assistant at Troy for two years before continuing his coaching career at Opelika High School and Wetumpka High School.

“Jonathan and his wife, Tiffany, bring a family-oriented approach to the game of football that will only continue to build on the firm foundation established in our championship program. Jonathan brings a character-building mindset and offensive strategy from competing at the highest levels. Knight nation, the future is bright!” Montgomery Catholic President Justin Castanza said.  

“My family and I are honored and excited to join this community as the new head football coach at Montgomery Catholic. We look forward to working with our talented student-athletes, dedicated faculty and staff, and supportive parents to create a program that embodies hard work and respect. Together we will strive for success and use the momentum of the past to develop a product that all stakeholders in the Catholic Family will be proud of. Let’s get ready for Friday Knight Lights!” Chandler said.

Catholic has won back-to-back state titles and is on a 29-game winning streak.

Chandler replaces Kirk Johnson, who is taking over at Benjamin Russell High School in Alexander City, which is a 6A program.
Johnson compiled a 55-2 record in four seasons as head coach at Catholic, becoming the winningest coach in school history.