Chris Zemba Steps Down as Rosecrans Football Head Coach

ZANESVILLE, OH – After seven seasons at the helm, Chris Zemba is stepping down as the football head coach at Bishop Rosecrans High School.

The 1993 Rosecrans graduate helped revitalize the program since taking over in 2020, helping lead the Bishops to 26 total wins and five playoff appearances during his tenure, and even had the opportunity to coach his son Brody until his graduation in 2025. Now, he is stepping away to focus on family.

“After a lot of prayer, I feel this is what is best for me, my family, and the program” says Zemba, who informed the team and staff about his decision on Wednesday. He adds that his wife has been his biggest supporter over the last seventeen years. “For all the sacrifices she has made for me and for this program over the past 17 years, seven years at the high school and ten years at the elementary building, I owe her this 100-fold. She never pressured me not to coach, she was just as much part of it as I was, but there is a new season of life to start and we are looking forward to that.”

In a statement, Zemba expresses his appreciation for the school, program, and community.”I would like to think my entire football family, including all former players, coaching staff, and loyal supporters. It has been a true blessing to have this opportunity and I forever will be grateful.”

The high school responded in kind with the following statement on social media regarding Zemba’s time at the school and as a valued member of the community:

“Today, Bishop Rosecrans offers heartfelt thanks to Coach Chris Zemba for all he has done for our students, football program, and school community. A coach’s impact is not measured by wins, losses, playoff appearances, or seasons alone. His time is weighted by the thoughtful way he has invested in young men, challenging them to grow in character, integrity, faith, responsibility, and service to others.”

The Bishops will now begin a head coaching search for the 2027 season.