About Coach Johnson

Coach Joseph Howard-Johnson’s journey embodies athletic excellence at every level. His 7 years in the National Football League (NFL); 1 year in the Canadian Football League (CFL); and 1 year in the World Football League (WFL), leading to a 1991 Super Bowl XXVI victory, and a 1992 (WFL) World Bowl runner-up. His legendary football career at Notre Dame showcased his exceptional athleticism, and abilities which lead to a very decorated college
career. He finished his ND football career averaging 19.6 yards per catch, on 85 receptions, which is still an ND record with a minimum of 75 receptions. Joe lead the Irish in receiving yard each of his first three years. In his Junior year at ND, Joe joined the ND basketball leading them to a 17-11 record and an NIT finals appearance vs the University of Michigan.

A rare two sport standout in the Washington, D.C. area as a Blue Chip and Parade All American in football, to playing in the McDonald’s Capital Classic with Patrick Ewing and against Michael Jordan. Joe dominated both football and basketball at a high level, with extraordinary versatility.

Joe was the Head football coach at Archbishop Carroll H.S. for 6 years; an assistant varsity football coach at DeMatha Catholic H.S. for 3 years; an assistant varsity football coach at Bishop Dennis J. O’Connell H.S. for 3 years; an assistant varsity football coach at the American School in Japan (ASIJ) for 2 years; an assistant girls varsity basketball coach at Archbishop Carroll H.S. for 2 years; an assistant freshman and varsity boys basketball coach at Bishop Denis J. O’Connell H.S. for two years. As a high school football and basketball coach, he leveraged his relationships with college coaches to assist over 70 plus players with receiving college scholarships.

For 15 years, Joe was a certified Personal Trainer, where he had the privilege of training several Ambassadors. The Honorable Thomas Foley, Ambassador to Japan, and the Honorable William Eacho, the Ambassador to Vienna Austria. As you can imagine, that was one of the highlights of his professional training career. Joe also served as the Youth Sports Director at the Tokyo American Club of Japan, where, he coordinated all sports programs and ran the Youth basketball and baseball leagues, as well as the summer basketball camps. While living in Japan, Joe also played in a Japanese basketball league.

But it’s his profound understanding of athletic development that sets him apart as a coach. Having mastered the fundamentals of speed, agility, and power through relentless work ethic and unwavering perseverance, Coach Howard-Johnson now transforms athletes with the same elite principles that propelled him to the pinnacle of professional sports. His unique combination of championship experience and technical expertise makes him more than a coach – he’s a proven architect of athletic excellence.

What Others Are Saying About Coach Johnson

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Joe for providing my godson (Desmond Umeozulz, a 6'7" 258 lbs, DE @ The University of South Carolina) with an exceptional opportunity to excel in college-level football. While my godson possesses natural talent, Joe recognized his potential and offered the necessary guidance to help him compete at the next level.

Coach Howard-Johnson's ability to connect to young athletes and work with them to create a "life-plan" not a temporary plan for right now is why I highly recommend him as an important role-model for any student athlete.

Over the past year, my son Joziah, has had the opportunity to train with Joe, and the experience has truly elevated his game Even after Joziah received a football scholarship, to Averitt University,. Joe’s expertise in player development ensures that each athlete receives the specific tools and skills needed to perform at a high level. From footwork to proper technique, Joe has consistently challenged my son, helping him grow not only as a football player but also as a leader.

From agility and plyometrics to understanding how to break down film, Coach Joe was the reason I was able to play college football. Fast forward, I believe his training and coaching not only prepared me for the gridiron but also provided me with the skills I needed to transition to the real world.