Detroit Lions honor Johannesburg-Lewiston’s Joe Smokevitch

Johannesburg, Mich. — Each week during the high school football season, the Detroit Lions select one high school football coach that demonstrates success on and off the field. This week, the Lions have selected Johannesburg-Lewiston’s Joe Smokevitch. The Cardinals (3-0) are coming off a dominating 37-6 victory over Frankfort last Friday.

The Detroit Lions High School Coach of the Week program awards a $1,500 donation to the recipient’s football program. Smokevitch will receive a certificate as well as a personalized game ball and acknowledgment at an upcoming home game. At the end of the season, the season’s Coach of the Year will win $3,000. That money will go to the school’s football program.

“I think it’s great for the program,” said Smokevitch. “Without those great kids, I wouldn’t get something like this. It’s a nice award to have.”

In his eight seasons as head coach, Smokevitch has led the Cardinals to the postseason six different times. This Friday, Johannesburg-Lewiston will look to remain unbeaten as they will square off with St. Ignace at 7 p.m.