Akron North head football coach resigns from position

DeMonte Powell instructing his players during a game against St. Thomas Aquinas. (Photo: Gene Simmons/B-roll)

AKRON, Ohio — Akron North High School football coach DeMonte Powell has resigned from the position, according to Akron Public Schools.  

Brandon Allison was appointed interim coach while the matter is formally resolved. 

According to the Beacon Journal, Powell was placed on administrative leave on September 30 by Akron Public Schools. "He is on administrative leave with APS," said Chase Canfield, Executive Director of Human Resources. 

"With this being an active personnel issue, the district can't comment on allegations or provide any additional details at this time." -- Chase Canfield, Executive Director of Human Resources

Powell announced his resignation on Saturday, October 3. In a text message, he said, "Due to the confusion and uncertainty of everything that has occurred, I have resigned."

OFFICIAL RESIGNATION LETTER FROM DEMONTE POWELL:

"Since 2014, I have always carried the same goal and the same mindset: to provide the youth with something that I needed when I was their age," Powell wrote. "I have been blessed with the opportunity to impact so many lives, build so many relationships, and be a part of something that means more to me than words can fully express.

"I have given Akron Public Schools the vast majority of my life, and I would not want to redo any of it. Every experience, every relationship, every challenge, and every young person I have had the privilege to coach has helped shape the person and leader I am today.

"At this troubling time, I am thankful, reflective, and apologetic. I fully understand my role and responsibility as a leader, mentor, and coach. This has been the most challenging year of my coaching tenure, but I loved every second of it. Even through the difficult moments. I remain grateful for the opportunity to serve our students and our community.

"To my peers, teachers, counselors, coaches, and athletes: I pray that I was never a letdown and that, through everything, you were able to see the purity and sincerity with which I have always tried to carry myself. My heart has always been with young people I serve, and I will forever be grateful for the trust, relationships, and memories we created together.

"Thank you for teaching me my calling. Thank you for allowing me to grow, to lead, and to serve. The lessons I have learned through Akron Public Schools and North High School will remain with me wherever life takes me next.

"I, Coach Powell, am formally resigning from my coaching position at this time. I leave with gratitude, humility, and a deep appreciation for everyone who has been a part of this journey." 

He served as head coach for four seasons and finished with a 3-33 record, and his other coaching duties include serving as girls assistant track and field coach at Archbishop Hoban High School.