Carmel Football Seeks New Leadership Post John Hebert

The Carmel High School football program is entering a new era following the departure of longtime head coach John Hebert. After leading the Greyhounds for over a decade, Hebert’s decision to step down marks the end of a significant chapter in Carmel football history. As the team looks ahead, players, coaches, and fans are eager to see how the program will evolve under new leadership.

A Look Back at Coach Hebert’s Legacy

John Hebert’s tenure at Carmel was defined by success, discipline, and a commitment to excellence. Under his guidance, the Greyhounds became one of the most respected programs in Indiana high school football.

Key Achievements Under Hebert:

Multiple State Championships: Carmel secured several state titles during Hebert’s tenure, solidifying its reputation as a powerhouse.
Consistent Playoff Appearances: The team was a perennial contender, making deep playoff runs nearly every season.
Player Development: Numerous athletes moved on to collegiate football, a testament to Hebert’s ability to develop talent.
Strong Team Culture: Hebert emphasized discipline, teamwork, and academic success, shaping players beyond the field.

Hebert’s departure leaves big shoes to fill, but the foundation he built ensures that Carmel football remains in a strong position moving forward.

The Search for a New Head Coach

With Hebert’s exit, Carmel’s administration has begun the process of finding a successor. The new coach will inherit a program with high expectations, a talented roster, and a passionate fan base.

What Carmel Needs in Its Next Coach:

Proven Leadership: The ideal candidate should have experience leading a successful program or coaching at a high level.
Player Development Skills: Continuing Carmel’s tradition of sending players to college football will be crucial.
Adaptability: Modern high school football requires innovative schemes and the ability to adjust to opponents.
Community Engagement: A strong connection with players, parents, and alumni will help maintain the program’s culture.

Potential candidates could include current assistant coaches, successful head coaches from other Indiana schools, or even former college coaches looking for a new challenge.

The Current Roster: Strengths and Challenges

Whoever takes over will inherit a roster with both experienced players and promising young talent.

Key Returning Players:

Quarterback: If Carmel has an established QB, they’ll be crucial in maintaining offensive consistency.
Defensive Standouts: Strong linebackers or defensive backs can anchor the defense.
Offensive Line: A solid O-line is essential for both the running and passing game.

Areas for Improvement:

Replacing Graduated Stars: If key seniors have moved on, the new coach must identify new leaders.
Depth at Key Positions: Injuries can derail a season, so developing backups will be vital.
Adjusting to a New System: Players may need time to adapt to a different coaching philosophy.

Fan and Community Expectations

Carmel football has a dedicated fan base that expects competitiveness year after year. The new coach will face immediate pressure to keep the program among Indiana’s elite.

What Fans Want to See:

Continued Dominance: Competing for state titles should remain the standard.
Exciting Football: A dynamic offense and aggressive defense keep fans engaged.
Strong Rivalries: Games against top opponents (like Center Grove or Warren Central) will always be circled on the calendar.

The Road Ahead

Change is never easy, especially for a program with such a storied history. However, Carmel’s strong infrastructure—from youth leagues to top-tier facilities—gives the new coach a significant advantage.

Possible Next Steps for the Program:

Hire a Coach Quickly: The sooner a leader is in place, the smoother the transition.
Retain Key Assistants: Keeping some staff members could provide stability.
Focus on Player Buy-In: Ensuring the team embraces the new system will be crucial for early success.

John Hebert’s departure marks the end of an era, but Carmel football is far from fading. With the right hire, the Greyhounds can continue their tradition of excellence and compete for championships. The coming months will be pivotal as the program navigates this transition and prepares for the future. For players, coaches, and fans, the next chapter of Carmel football is just beginning—and the excitement is building.