RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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NEW ORLEANS — John F. Kennedy football has transformed from pretender to contender with six straight playoff appearances.
"The standard is set at JFK now. We were a building program at one point. Now we set the standard, and we have to reach that standard every year," said Kennedy head coach Lynarise Elpheage.
The Cougars have advanced to the Division II Select quarterfinal round three times (2022-2024) in the last six years, and they are committed to making a deeper run in 2026.
Kennedy played in Class 4A during playoff appearances in 2020 and 2021.
"Man, we've been knocking on the door and trying to get over that hump. I think the hard work and dedication that we're putting in during the spring and the summer and just doing the little things right. I think if we clean up the little things, we get over that hump," Elpheage said.
Kennedy tested its progress with a spring scrimmage against Edna Karr. The Cougars are the back-to-back, undisputed Division I Select champions.
"It gave us a measuring stick to see where we are and where we need to be. When you're going against the defending state champions, it's always going to be a battle, and I love what they're doing over there with their program. So, I want to get to that point. So, in order to do that, you need to see where you are and see how they do things and match up with those guys, and hopefully we will get there one day," Elpheage said.
Kennedy returns ten starters this fall, seven on offense and three on defense. This offseason, the Cougars received a big boost with long-term benefits.
Frederick Douglass High School merged with John F. Kennedy.
The move combines the two football programs and gives the Cougars more numbers and depth.
"I'm excited to see them come together and play for one another. By having two different teams come together and build camaraderie they built through the summer, I need that to continue through the season, and hopefully it'll bring us through the playoffs," Elpheage said.
Kennedy will scrimmage John Ehret Wednesday, August 19th at Hoss Memtsas Stadium. The Cougars will face Warren Easton in their jamboree on Friday, August 28th.
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