Justin Roland Named New Head Football Coach

Justin Roland has been named the new head football coach for the Ponca City Wildcats, pending board approval. Roland has been a football coach in the district for over a decade. He served as defensive coordinator since 2016 and was named interim football coach for the district last October.

Roland is a 2004 graduate of Ponca City High School and the district’s head wrestling coach.

“I am humbled and grateful for the opportunity to be head football coach for Ponca City Public Schools,” said Roland. “I look forward to the hard work ahead!”

PCPS Superintendent Adam Leaming said, “When we started looking at the future of our football program, it didn’t take long to see who checked every box on our list of wishes for the future coach. It’s no secret Justin is a kid magnet. He’s respected by his players, the community, and is a defensive genius. Having a coach who can inspire youth to new levels of productivity is a special talent. Justin is a natural encourager, strategic in his scheming and knows how to get more out of each player put in front of him.”

“Watching Justin in our hallways, on the field, and in our community, it’s clear he’s ready for the pressures and challenges of coaching in a 6A football environment. Coach Turner and I have each thoroughly enjoyed Justin’s professionalism throughout last season and this off season.”

“Something special is happening with the culture of our football program, and I’m thrilled to watch Coach Roland grow a culture that makes our community excited to share in it on Friday nights in the fall,” said Leaming.

PCPS Athletic Director Joe Turner said, “Coach Justin Roland brings a wealth of experience, both as a player and coach. I feel Coach Roland is the perfect fit to lead our football program that will exemplify the Wildcat Way. I am excited and confident that Justin will continue to build upon the success the football program has experienced.”

“This is a great day for our Wildcat family!” said Leaming. “I’m thrilled to see our positive momentum propel us forward. Please join me in welcoming Head Coach Roland! Let’s go Wildcats!”

As an athlete, Coach Roland began wrestling as a freshman and finished his senior year at a state champion. He was also a member of two traditional state championships and two dual state championships. While playing football for the Wildcats, Roland was named All-District three times. After graduation, he went on to play for Northeastern Oklahoma A&M in Miami. At NEO he was a two-time NJCAA All-American. After NEO, Roland continued his playing career at Kansas State University where he was a two-year starting linebacker. In addition, he was named to the honorable mention All-Big 12 team. Post-college, Roland continued on to the National Football League for four years, playing for the San Francisco 49ers and Philadelphia Eagles.