In Bearden, Tennessee, the local high school football program has announced a significant change as they have fired head coach Josh Jones after three seasons. The decision was confirmed on Tuesday when the district’s chief of communications revealed that the school has decided to go in a different direction and will begin the search for a new coach for the upcoming 2025 season.
Josh Jones, who took over the program before the 2022 season, had a record of 25 wins and 13 losses during his time at Bearden. He previously served as the offensive coordinator for Powell and contributed to their success in winning a Class 5A state title in 2021. Reports indicate that Jones did not resign from his position, and as of 2 p.m. Tuesday, he is no longer with the program.
This change follows a troubling investigation that uncovered improper payments made by the Bearden High School Football Booster Club. According to findings, the booster club had paid two coaches a total exceeding $60,000 over a two-year period without the approval of the Knox County School System. The school district officials were reportedly unaware of these payments, prompting them to request an investigation from the state comptroller.
The investigation detailed that the booster club had issued 23 checks to coaches and charged players fees that were misappropriated for expenses such as player insurance. Additionally, questionable disbursements amounting to over $13,000 were identified, involving expenses for food and supplies without proper receipts.
As the situation unfolds, the findings have been forwarded to the state attorney general and the Knox County District Attorney to ascertain whether any criminal activity occurred. The Bearden football program now faces a pivotal moment as they embark on the search for a new head coach.
