Portland, OR. — Jesuit High School announced that Ken Potter, the winningest football coach in Oregon history, will retire from his roles as head varsity football coach and school counselor at the end of the 2025–26 school year. Potter leaves behind an extraordinary legacy, compiling a 369–92 record over 38 seasons, capturing 25 league championships and four state titles.
This fall, the Crusaders continued that tradition of excellence, finishing undefeated in league play, securing the Metro League championship, and advancing to the OSAA quarterfinals before falling to West Linn.
Potter became Jesuit’s varsity head coach in 1987—his first head coaching position—and immediately led the Crusaders to an undefeated season. Over the decades, he earned Metro Coach of the Year, Oregon Coach of the Year, and National Coach of the Year (Western region) honors.
Beyond the accolades, Jesuit leaders and alumni say Potter’s greatest impact is measured in the lives he shaped. Former Stanford and NFL athlete Dr. Owen Marecic ’07 called Potter “one of the greatest coaches in Oregon state history,” praising his lessons in teamwork, discipline, work ethic, selflessness, and faith. “He leaves a legacy of excellence that is difficult to match,” Marecic said.
Potter’s coaching philosophy is rooted in family. His brother, Gene Potter, serves as Jesuit’s assistant football coach and head men’s varsity basketball coach, while their father, George Potter, coached high school football for 44 years.
Senior linebacker and receiver Jack Tuenge ’26 said Potter’s influence reaches far beyond game day. “He is the best coach I have played for, but more than that, he pushes me to be a better person off the field,” Tuenge said.
Jesuit High School President Thomas D. Arndorfer expressed the community’s gratitude. “The Jesuit family is profoundly grateful for Ken’s service, leadership, and commitment to our mission over the last 38 years,” Arndorfer said. “We wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.”
Jesuit High School will conduct a national search for its next head football coach. Interested candidates may inquire at footballcoach@jesuitportland.org
or visit jesuitportland.org/about/employment for upcoming job postings.
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