Northwood football program once again looking for a new head coach

Northwood High School athletic officials are again looking for a head varsity football coach.

Earlier this month, former Long Beach Wilson head coach Justin Utupo was named the new head varsity football coach.

But Utupo’s plans have changed and he will no longer replace Mike Stewart, who was Northwood’s interim coach. Stewart resigned after two spring games. It is not clear what Utupo’s plans are.

OC Sports Zone has reached out to Utupo for comment. There have been a number of head coaching vacancies since the end of the abbreviated spring season.

“Out of respect for Coach Utupo and his decision I think he can share where he will be going,” said Brandon Emery, Northwood co-athletic director.

Northwood officials sent out a letter to football families on Monday:

“Today we were notified that Coach Utupo will not be our next head football coach at Northwood. We know this creates uncertainty and questions but please know we will continue our search for a new head coach over the next few weeks. As an athletics administrative team at Northwood, we are committed to finding the right coach for this program who will continue to build upon the success of previous years. We will let you know when we have any information. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we continue this process.”

After Utupo was hired, Emery said in a statement:

“Northwood is excited to have Coach Utupo as the new head varsity football coach. Justin’s playing experience at Notre Dame along with his coaching experience at Millikan High School, Azusa Pacific University, and most recently at Orange Lutheran will allow him to bring his knowledge of the game and a unique perspective to our program.

Stewart, Northwood’s interim coach, replaced Paige Nobles, who was not brought back after one season. Nobles later joined the Dana Hills staff.

—-Tim Burt, OC Sports Zone; timburt@ocsportszone.com