BLOOMDALE, Ohio — Elmwood High School has named JT Bates as its next head football coach.

Bates, a teacher at Elmwood, was the head coach at Van Buren from 2017 to 2021. He also was an assistant coach at Tiffin Calvert, Port Clinton, Fostoria, and Elmwood.

Bates, who has been a health and physical education teacher for 22 years, brings a wealth of coaching experience and a passion for developing student-athletes, according to Elmwood athletic director Nolan Wickard.

“Coach Bates’ vision for Elmwood football aligns perfectly with our goals for the program,” Wickard said. “His combination of experience, leadership, and passion for both teaching and coaching will be a huge asset to our school and community.”

Bates led Van Buren to state playoff berths on two different occasions and the Black Knights won a playoff game during the 2020 season.

Wickard said throughout the interview process, Bates distinguished himself as the ideal candidate.

“His strong organizational skills, high standards, deep knowledge of football, and unwavering commitment to the Elmwood community were evident,” Wickard said. “His passion for strength training and his dedication to the weight room will help elevate Elmwood football to the next level.”

Bates' wife Kelly also teaches at Elmwood.

“We are excited to see the program grow and thrive under his leadership,” Wickard said.

Bates takes over for Greg Bishop, who led the Royals to a 36-49 record over eight seasons.

Bishop led the Royals to play berths in 2022 with a 12-2 record and in 2021 with a 10-2 record. Elmwood, a former longtime member of the Northern Buckeye Conference, now competes in the Blanchard Valley Conference. The Royals went 0-10 last season.

In 2022, Bishop led Elmwood to the Division V regional finals. The Royals also qualified for the playoffs in 2023.

First Published March 5, 2025, 10:11 p.m.