Jupiter High welcomed Timothy Tharp as the new varsity football head coach this past January. Already, Tharp has begun to make positive changes in the program, leading the Warriors to a pre-season win against Okeechobee High 34-30.

“This year we have the guidance, leadership and coaches putting us in the right direction,” said senior Jordan Kleinman.

The team had a series of rigorous practices and conditioning throughout the summer. The boys aren’t just putting in work on the field; off the field, they do extensive weight training to improve their strength

“In the off-season, we are in the weight room five days per week and outside conducting speed, agility, plyometric training one day per week after weightlifting,” said Tharp.

Many players on the team feel that Tharp’s practices are more difficult yet more effective than in previous years.

“Coach Tharp’s practices are more effective. We work harder, and we condition more than we did with Coach Powers,” said senior Sergio Sanchez. “We are more dedicated and more determined to win games.”

Tharp’s philosophies of hard work, dedication and diligence have made an impact on the lives of his players on and off of the field. Junior Tanner Nairn explained Tharp’s influence on the team to do things outside of football to help the community.

“He’s a coach with a vast amount of knowledge of the game; he’s tough but knows how to motivate the team,” said Nairn.

Overall, the players respect Tharp’s coaching style and drive to succeed. Tharp was a five-time “Coach of the Year” during his time at South Fork High School.