Winning coach resigns position

FARMINGTON – It has been said that life is made of many chapters. When one ends, another begins. For John Bacon, head football coach at Farmington High School, a chapter that is just beginning to be written will make a big impact on the lives of he and his wife Tina Betz-Bacon.

After a football season in which many in the community are still applauding the accomplishments of the team, Bacon announced this week he is retiring from the coaching helm at the school.

&#8220My wife and I have come to a point in our lives where we are wanting to start a family and we have begun the process of adopting a child from China. This process will entail us traveling during either next summer or fall. I made the decision that I want to spend as much time as I can with my family. To be a head coach the way I try to do it and to be a dad would be very difficult. I am really happy with the decision I’ve made,” he said.

Bacon has been a coach at the high school for the past ten years, serving as the head coach for the last four years. Prior to his arrival in Farmington, Bacon coached at Valle Catholic High School for nine years. His total win-loss record as a head coach at both schools was 106-26.

This year, the Farmington Knights had a record of 10-2, with the team advancing all the way to state quarterfinal play. Bacon recalled what he shared with the team when he announced his retirement Tuesday to those who would be returning next year as well as those who will graduate next spring.

&#8220I told the kids it’s how hard they work that makes the team successful. It was hard to say my good-byes. I have been lucky to have such a great coaching staff and group of players. It has been a lot of fun to coach,” he said.

Bacon will not be saying good-bye to the school completely. He and his wife will continue to teach at the high school.

Pat Burns, athletic director, said while there was some disappointment when told of Bacon’s decision, there was also a lot of respect as well.

&#8220We are very supportive of his decision. John Bacon is a gentleman more than anything and that is very evident on the conduct of his coaches and players. Everyone thinks very highly of John and his decision is one we very much respect and support” said Burns.

Burns also acknowledged the impact Bacon made on the program during his time as a coach.

&#8220The new coach will have some big shoes to fill,” he said.