One Moment in Time – Supporting Coach Joe Johnson and the Henryville Football Program

I met Joe Johnson in 3rd grade. He was the new kid joining a class that had been together since kindergarten—but he fit right in. Now, here we are in our early 50s, and our bond has only grown stronger. We’ve always been a close-knit class, and Joe has always stood out—not just for his love of football, but for his determination, his kindness, and the deep love he shows his beautiful wife, Andi, and amazing children: Lila, Jett, and Lucy.

What I remember most is Joe’s relentless drive. As kids, I would see him out on the high school track, running in the summer heat—morning and night—getting ready for football season. I know because I was there too, conditioning for field hockey. That’s who Joe has always been—driven, committed, and all heart.

Fast forward to today, and Joe “Coach Joe” Johnson has done something truly remarkable: he helped start a football program in Henryville, a town that hasn’t had one in 113 years. Let that sink in—113 years. His dream is now a reality, and it’s a gift to the children of that community.

But Joe’s story of helping others didn’t begin with this program. He’s been lifting people up for decades. I know this firsthand—because when I was at my weakest, fighting for my life in the hospital with COVID, Joe showed up in the most powerful way.

My twin sister posted on Facebook about my condition. I was failing. I was tired. I was dying. Joe saw that post and called my sister. She handed me the phone while I was hooked up to machines and barely able to speak. But I heard his voice, and I heard the tears as he coached me through that moment. He reminded me I was an athlete, a fighter, and that I had more life to live. That moment saved me.

This is what Joe brings to the children he now coaches. More than football, he’s teaching life lessons. He’s offering mentorship, compassion, and sometimes even a father figure. These kids need him now—and they’ll carry his lessons for the rest of their lives.

Like Whitney Houston sang in One Moment in Time—this is their moment. Let’s help them seize it.

This isn’t just about donating to a football team. It’s about giving back. It’s about honoring someone who’s given so much of himself to others. Henryville is a small town with limited resources, and every dollar donated goes directly to the football program.

I’ve already donated, because this is the least I can do for a Coach, a lifelong friend, and someone who gave me strength when I needed it most.

Let’s come together and give these kids something unforgettable. Every little bit helps. Let’s make a difference—together.

With gratitude,

Mary Ann Coulter