A New Chapter for Pleasant Football
Jake Schaefer, a former college quarterback who once dazzled in Germany’s professional leagues, has been named the new head football coach at Pleasant High School, taking over a program that has seen its share of turnover in recent years.
Schaefer’s journey to Ohio has been marked by a blend of playing and coaching experience, from leading John Carroll to an 8‑2 senior season that earned him an honorable‑mention All‑Ohio nod, to stints at Eastern Kentucky and the University of Akron, and most recently a coaching role at Gilmour Academy and Otterbein University.
His philosophy centers on building a strong foundation, emphasizing discipline, community connection, and a smart, well‑coached style of play that he believes can compete in a rigorous conference.
Beyond the X’s and O’s, Schaefer is eager to re‑engage alumni and local supporters, hoping their involvement will help restore a winning culture and provide the stability the Spartans have lacked.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, he sees promise in returning veterans and a talented incoming class, and he has set his long‑term sights on playoff contention and a run at the state championships.