At the beginning of preseason this fall, a variety of new faces dotted the Circle, particularly within the Groton football team. However, one familiar face on the field and in the classroom was notably absent: John Lyons. This year marks the first of Mr. Lyons’ retirement from Groton and his impact on the school resonates around campus even after his departure. As the season rolls on, the 2024–25 Groton football team has had to adapt and adjust to Coach Lyons’ absence in a plethora of ways.
During his tenure as the offensive coordinator, Coach Lyons mentored and guided his players with unwavering tenacity and dedication. Often referred to as “JL,” he implemented his patented offensive playbook for over three decades, and his extensive experience proved invaluable when new players had to learn his distinctive style of play. Charlie Stubbs ’26 describes Mr. Lyons as extremely blunt, a “very tough coach who challenged us each and every day at practice.”
“It was a lot at times, [but] it always made us better as a team,” said Stubbs “I think all of these emotions were because he wanted to win more than anything.”
Coach Lyons’ ferocity and meticulous attention to detail fostered his players’ mental toughness, and his presence inspired players to give their utmost effort on the field regardless of the numbers displayed on the scoreboard.
Coach Lyons’ presence wasn’t just as the playcaller, but also “as the twelfth man on the field,” according to captain Salim Hill ’25. Hill remarks that what he appreciated most about Coach Lyons was how, despite there being only 11 players on the field, he pushed all his players further through tough love while having their backs.
Hill also adds that in 2022, during a game against St. George’s—one of Groton’s most competitive rivals—some of the opposing fans started to heckle the Zebras’ players. Groton players ignored these comments; however, the opposition continued. During a pause in play, Coach Lyons confronted the hecklers, telling them, “You have no right to be talking, you’re not out there!”
Coach Lyons’ defense of his players empowered the team and inspired them to carry on not only for themselves but for the name blazoned across their chest. JL’s treatment of his players has left an impression upon each one of them, none of which will forget his coaching style of tough love and support.
In any organization, someone who has stood stoutly in their position for over 30 years is difficult to replace. Change is strenuous and complex, especially after relying on JL’s leadership for such a long time. Despite a major loss in the culture of the Zeebs’ football team, they have adapted with new offensive coordinator, Karim Hill.
Coach Hill has implemented a more modern style of offense that makes it easier for players to understand their responsibilities on the field, earning praise from all position groups. Nevertheless, Coach Lyons’ endless support for the team will be missed and we thank him for sharing his robust fountain of knowledge on the football field. JL’s legacy will reign on the team for years to come. Roll Zeebs!
