Kevin Leonard

South Eugene High School Head Coach Kevin Leonard observes his players run practice drills during a late season practice at South Eugene High School. Leonard is in his fourth year as a coach at South Eugene High School, however, he has been coaching for more than 25 years. Photo by Ben Lonergan

South Eugene High SchooL head football coach Kevin Leonard directs members of the offensive line during a late season practice at South Eugene High School. Coach Leonard drove fundamentals of football and respect for the game as primary teachings in his practices. Photo by Ben Lonergan

South Eugene High School head coach Kevin Leonard explains a route to wide receiver Dylan Edwards during a late season practice at South Eugene High School.

South Eugene High School head football coach Kevin Leonard discusses player morale with his team at a post practice meeting at South Eugene High School. Leonard was aiming to reinsure his team ahead of their final games of the season. As a team that is beginning to turn around a decade long losing streak Leonard aimed to continue the morale built by winning games. Photo by Ben Lonergan

South Eugene High School head football coach Kevin Leonard leaves the field following a post season practice at South Eugene High School. Photo by Ben Lonergan

South Eugene head coach Kevin Leonard cheers with his team and fans following their shutout of North Eugene High School on Friday night. The South Eugene Axe defeated the North Eugene Highlanders 28 to zero in a penalty ridden game at South Eugene High School on Friday, October 5, 2018. Photo by Ben Lonergan

South Eugene High School head football coach Kevin Leonard (right) congratulates assistant coach Chad Kessler on a win over cross town rival North Eugene High School. The South Eugene Axe defeated the North Eugene Highlanders 28 to zero in a penalty ridden game at South Eugene High School on Friday, October 5, 2018. [Ben Lonergan for KVAL.com] - KVAL.com

South Eugene High School head football coach Kevin Leonard has devoted his life to coaching for more than 25 years. With experience in all levels of youth football, he turned his sights on the South Eugene High School team just over five years ago with the goal of developing a winning program and instilling a love and respect of the sport in each and every one of his players. Leonard can be seen on the sidelines of games cheering on his team, win or lose. He reminds his players that no matter what the scoreboard says, they cannot give up. In addition to undying support for his team, Leonard’s players look up to him for advice on and off the field. He has created an atmosphere that allows them to remain open about their emotions and concerns about all aspects of the game.