Meet Washingtonville boys varsity soccer coach Jon Johansen

Soccer has always played a big part in Jon Johansen’s life, from youth soccer programs and travel teams to his current role as Washingtonville’s boys varsity soccer coach. Now in his first season leading the varsity team, he is focused on continuing to develop the program while building on the strong foundation established by the coaches before him.

As the former junior varsity coach at Washingtonville High School, Coach Johansen has had the opportunity to work with many of his current players in previous seasons. The Wizards have enjoyed a strong start to the season, including a five-game winning streak, as Coach Johansen continues to focus on developing the team’s identity and culture.

“The game has given me so much over the years, and coaching is my way of giving back and helping the next generation develop both as players and as people,” he said.

Much of his coaching style is inspired by two of his own coaches from his playing days.

“There were two coaches who had a tremendous impact on me growing up,” he said. “Much of my coaching style is inspired by the environment they created and the way they taught the game. I'd say I coach in a similar way... just with a little less yelling.”

Growing up in Wallkill, Coach Johansen became familiar with Washingtonville’s soccer program through games against the Wizards.

"Growing up in Wallkill, I was familiar with Washingtonville through our games and even played with Coach Cutney,” he said. “I'm excited to be part of this community.”

With a coaching philosophy centered around guided discovery and asking questions, Coach Johansen believes in empowering players to think independently.

“I want players to understand the game and think for themselves so they can make confident decisions on the field,” he said. “I'm not a big yeller—I believe that about 80% of games are won or lost on the training pitch through preparation, habits and attention to detail.”

Coach Johansen is working toward his goal of reaching the sectional finals while helping the team improve individually and collectively throughout the season.

"I hope to build a strong sense of camaraderie and accountability while encouraging continued success in the classroom," Coach Johansen said.

He also hopes players leave the program having grown not only as soccer players, but as individuals with the problem-solving skills, leadership and resilience to serve them well in college, their careers and throughout life.