News Summary

Jon Marcus Duncan, renowned for his remarkable 25-year coaching career at Jackson Prep, bids farewell after achieving 862 wins and 30 state titles. His legacy as Mississippi’s most successful high school soccer coach leaves an indelible mark on the sport and the lives he touched. As he steps away from the sidelines, Duncan reflects on the influence he had on his players and the community, celebrating the relationships forged and the shared triumphs during his time at Jackson Prep.

Jackson, Mississippi Bids Farewell to Coaching Legend Jon Marcus Duncan!

After an impressive 25-year journey, Jon Marcus Duncan, the most successful high school soccer coach in the history of Mississippi, has decided to hang up his whistle and take a step back from the coaching sidelines. His contributions to the game and the lives he’s touched are nothing short of legendary.

A Stellar Coaching Career

Throughout his remarkable coaching career at Jackson Prep, Duncan racked up an astounding total of 862 wins! This includes 474 wins for the girls’ teams and 388 for the boys’ teams. With a phenomenal career winning percentage of 83%, it’s no wonder that he holds the title of the winningest high school soccer coach in the state. His collection of trophies boasts a staggering 30 state titles, with equal contributions to both boys and girls soccer teams—15 titles in each category.

Duncan’s success did not come by chance; he surpassed Karl Friedrich of Harrison Central last August, who finished his impressive career with 831 victories over 32 seasons. Duncan’s strategic prowess and passion for the game undoubtedly set him apart as a remarkable figure in Mississippi high school sports.

A Journey Begins

Duncan’s coaching journey began back in the year 2000. After being encouraged by his father, Jimmy Duncan, to explore coaching, he took the plunge and quickly became a force to be reckoned with at Jackson Prep. Alongside his coaching duties, Duncan also educated young minds, teaching seventh-grade life science, showcasing his multifaceted talents.

Personal Reflection

As his youngest daughter, Abby, prepares to graduate and pursue her soccer dreams at Jones College, Duncan viewed this as the perfect moment to transition to a new chapter in his life. While he’s stepping away from coaching for now, he isn’t putting away his passion for the sport entirely. He expressed his excitement for exploring new career opportunities while keeping his options open for future coaching roles.

Gratitude and Relationships

During his time at Jackson Prep, Duncan formed countless cherished relationships with players, staff, and families. He emphasized how grateful he is for the unwavering support he received from the school community, which has played a vital role in both his professional achievements and personal life. His connection with players runs particularly deep, as he had the privilege of coaching both of his daughters, Josie and Abby. Josie is currently a junior pursuing her dreams at Mississippi State University.

Legacy and Impact

The impact Duncan has had on his players cannot be overstated. Many former players have come forward to share how much he meant to them, not just as a coach but as a mentor. Players like Torrey Polk, Austin Craft, and Laura Lee Smith (now Beneke) attested to his incredible ability to inspire and educate them about resilience and facing challenges head-on.

One of his standout players, Beneke, known as one of the best girls’ players Duncan coached, was honored as the Mississippi Gatorade Girls Soccer Player of the Year twice and has since embarked on a successful career as an emergency room doctor. This is just one example of how Duncan’s influence extends far beyond the soccer field.

Looking Ahead

As Duncan takes this new step, Athletic Director Will Crosby, along with head of school Lawrence Coco, are fully supportive of his decision and will begin the search for his successor. There’s no doubt that Duncan’s energy and enthusiasm will be missed on the field, as Jackson Prep and the Mississippi soccer community bid farewell to a true icon.

Though the coaching world is losing a genius, Jon Marcus Duncan’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations, and who knows? Maybe we’ll see him back on the field someday, coaching once more.

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