Jon LeDonne Brings Community & Football Together at Penn Hills

Last week I was lucky to spend some time with a good man - Penn Hills Head Football Coach Jon LeDonne. 

LeDonne, an Aliquippa graduate, is entering his fifth season as the leader of the Penn Hills Indians. And lead is what he’s done his entire life. 

LeDonne agreed to be the Coach at Penn Hills after spending three seasons at Shaler. His record in those three seasons was 2-27, so you can imagine that many in the area were a bit shocked when they learned of LeDonne’s hiring. Especially considering the Indians storied history with five WPIAL titles, while producing future NFL Hall of Famers such as current Rams defensive lineman Aaron Donald, and 1980’s All-NFL Decade member, offensive lineman Bill Fralic. 

That shock and awe wore off rather quickly however, when Penn Hills finished 16-0 in 2018, and won WPIAL and PIAA titles for the first time in decades. That earned LeDonne Post-Gazette Coach of the Year honors, as he became the first WPIAL Coach to win a title just two years after going winless in the WPIAL. 

LeDonne was quick to deflect attention from himself, acknowledging the work of his coaching staff, including the handful of assistants he brought over to Penn Hills with him from Shaler. 

“Work ethic, passion and commitment is what they bring to the table,” said the Indians Coach. 

He’s now fully embraced the Penn Hills community, and they have embraced him right back. I asked Coach what it meant to be at the helm of such a storied Football program. He referenced his upbringing in another football town:

“Growing up in Aliquippa, Friday night lights meant everything,” said LeDonne. “It’s the same when I came to Penn Hills. I pride myself in the community and it’s roots, and the Penn Hills Football family is amazing.”

He brings a blue-collar work ethic, constantly reinforcing his favorite motto to his players - “Be who you are.” 

“If you be who you are, you’ll usually get what you want,” he often preaches.

Of course, I couldn’t leave without asking about those said players. Following a 4-4, shortened season last year that dealt with the challenges of Covid-19, LeDonne likes his young group this season.

Last year’s team was led by a Freshman QB in Julian Dugger, and his running mate in the backfield was also a Freshman in Amir Key. They finished as the two leaders in yards on the roster. LeDonne acknowledged the growing pains a young team typically has, but understands that they call them growing pains for a reason. He expects much improvement from his team this season. 

One thing is for certain. If they are able to play within themselves and try not to do too much, they could potentially replicate the success of the 2018 and 2019 Penn Hills teams. 

At the end of the day, all they can do is be who they are. 

That’s exactly what their coach will be doing.