Southeast Missouri State University is saying farewell to one of its top football minds as Offensive Coordinator Jeromy McDowell has announced he is stepping down to join Saxony Lutheran High School’s football program. McDowell, who has spent the past seven seasons shaping SEMO’s high-powered offense, will take on the same role at Saxony Lutheran, where he will also have the opportunity to coach his son.
Despite the move from the collegiate level to high school football, McDowell is embracing the opportunity to balance his professional and personal life.
“I am excited to begin with Saxony. This decision comes from a deep desire to spend more time with my family. When approached with the opportunity to coach my own son and be actively involved in his growth, both as an athlete and as a person, I simply couldn’t say no. Over the years, my career has required significant time and energy, which has kept me away from important family moments. Coaching at a smaller level provides an opportunity to balance my professional and personal life while contributing to a new football program and helping it build success from the ground up. Many might consider this a step down from a career perspective, but in all honesty, it feels like the opportunity of a lifetime to me.”
McDowell will be joining Saxony Lutheran’s coaching staff alongside head coach OJ Turner Jr., his former SEMO teammate. The program, which finished its junior varsity season undefeated, will compete at the varsity level for the first time next fall.
The Barn 