WARREN, OH-  Five years into his tenure as the head coach of Warren JFK boys soccer, Anthony Ledenko continues to inspire and challenge his team against all odds. Recalling his journey from joining as an assistant coach for the girls’ program in 2019 to leading the boys’ team through various trials and triumphs, Coach Ledenko’s story is a testament to perseverance and dedication.

Reflecting on his first season in 2020, where the team faced a daunting 0-16 record amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Ledenko acknowledges the struggle as a transformative phase. “We weren’t 0-16 bad. We had a culture that needed changing completely,” he reveals. His focus on cultural shift rather than immediate victories has been instrumental in turning the program around. The team’s record progressively improved, boasting a 14-4 streak and a district final appearance two years later.

Despite this year being tough, with a spate of newer players, including nine freshmen, Ledenko’s optimism remains unshaken. His strategic emphasis on daily improvement over the long season ensures that the team is prepared for the playoffs. “The goal this year is to get better every single day,” he insists.

Ledenko deeply cherishes his roots in the JFK program, driving his relentless pursuit to elevate JFK soccer to the same esteem as its renowned football and basketball programs. He actively engages his players with the rich history of JFK sports, hoping to motivate them by bridging past achievements with current aspirations.

This season’s key players include Nick Ryan, a two-time Allstate athlete, and Christian Swagger, a versatile senior, among others. Freshman talent like Anthony Brzezinski signifies a promising future, reflecting Lodenko’s skill in nurturing new talent.

Asked about his evolving coaching style, Lodenko admits, “I got less and less intense, a little more loose, a little more lax.” His dynamic approach, adapting to the players’ needs and situational demands, has been a cornerstone of his coaching philosophy.

Ledenko’s journey is also fueled by daily doses of inspiration from icons like Jim Valvano, Muhammad Ali, and Kobe Bryant. “That sort of thing gets me into my element, getting ready to go,” he shares.

Anthony Ledenko’s continuous commitment and adaptive strategies signify a bright horizon for Warren JFK boys soccer. His passion, deeply intertwined with the program’s history and his forward-looking philosophy, makes him not just a coach but a true leader for the Eagles.

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