The new school year brings new opportunities for students and staff. Varsity Quarterback and Running Back coach, Nick Janes had the chance to take a bigger step in his coaching career. Janes has had multiple years of playing and coaching. He was the quarterback at Blue Springs High School and played for a total of 12 years.

This is his sixth year coaching, and fourth at the school district. Janes was a student assistant coach at Kansas from 2008-2012. He was also the running back coach at William Chrisman HS, and coached at the school district  from 2013-2016.

“He is a young coach who I believe is a great fit to our program at this time and we are very happy to get him to the varsity level,” said Athletic Director and Head Varsity Coach, Tom Kruse.

Janes started at the school district as the middle school head coach. He coached there for two years, but then moved to the varsity level.

“I really have enjoyed coaching at both levels. Developing our players is very important at the lower level, varsity is a bigger stage and challenge. I would have to say the varsity level is my choice though,” said Janes.

Coach Janes had been working with the varsity program for three years, even when he was coaching at the eighth grade level.

“We had an opening at the varsity level and we were looking at adding a few things to our offense, so I brought in Coach Janes in as our offensive coordinator,” said Kruse.

Moving from eighth graders to the varsity level has changed the way Janes coaches the game.

“I think you have to adapt your style to the type of kids you have and what level you are coaching at. You have to create a positive culture and team concept,” said Janes.

Janes has also noticed a big difference in the atmosphere while coaching under the lights on Friday night.

“Nothing can match Friday night lights. The support we have gotten this year from our students and community has been fabulous. It was awesome to see our fans fill up the visitor stands at LSW week 3. It almost felt like a home game,” said Janes.

Moving to the varsity level can bring new challenges and new experiences. With the help of returning coaches and players, coach Janes will not experience these new waters alone.