Beloved Mitchell Coach Returns to Girls Soccer After 4 Years

Sometimes the best path forward means returning to where you made a difference before.

Bob Lemon is coming back to coach Mitchell High School's girls soccer team in 2026, four years after stepping down from the same role. The announcement reunites the science teacher with a program he led for six seasons from 2017 to 2022.

Lemon didn't stray far from his coaching roots during his break. He spent the past two seasons as an assistant track and field coach at Mitchell High, staying connected to student athletes while teaching science full time.

The Kernels struggled without consistent leadership in recent years. The team went 10-18-1 over the past two seasons under former head coach Kindra Decker, who resigned in January.

"Bob's experience and history with our program make him an outstanding choice to lead our girls soccer team," said Mitchell High Activities Director Cory Aadland. He highlighted Lemon's proven ability to connect with students while building a competitive and positive atmosphere.

Lemon brings more than just his six seasons with the Kernels. He previously coached boys soccer and track and field at Mitchell Christian, giving him deep roots in the local soccer community.

The returning coach expressed genuine excitement about working with familiar faces again. "It's a special opportunity to work with many of them again, and I'm excited to help them make the most of the upcoming season," Lemon said.

Why This Inspires

This story shows what happens when educators truly care about young people. Lemon could have simply focused on teaching science and calling it a career, but he chose to return to the extra work of coaching because he values the connections with student athletes.

His decision also demonstrates that success isn't always measured in winning records. Mitchell went 36-41-6 during his first stint, but the school's leadership valued what he brought beyond the scoreboard enough to welcome him back.

For the current players, having a coach who already understands the school's culture and values means less disruption and more time focusing on growth. The younger athletes joining the program get to learn from someone the Mitchell community has respected for years.

A coach coming home can inspire more than just better soccer.