Jacot resigns from Santa Margarita; Johnson interested?

The Santa Margarita football head coaching job became vacant this morning, and Mission Viejo football coach Bob Johnson said he might apply for it.

While Johnson said he is very happy and satisfied at Mission, a public school, he could be interested in pursuing the Santa Margarita position that became available when the resignation of Coach Mike Jacot at Santa Margarita, a private school, was announced by the school this morning.

"I wouldn't say I wouldn't," said Johnson, when asked if he would apply at Santa Margarita. "Sure, I'd take a look at it. But I love the place where I'm at."

Here are portions of Santa Margarita's official statement on Jacot's resignation:

"Santa Margarita Catholic High School announces today the resignation of Mike Jacot as the school's head football coach. Jacot cited personal reasons for stepping down.

"He will stay on as the school's first strength and conditioning coordinator ...

"Jacot was 38-38 during his seven seasons with the Eagles. In 2006, Jacot was named Coach of the Year (OC Register).

"Santa Margarita principal Ray Dunne: 'One of the most striking characteristics of Mike is his leadership, which is based on high ethical and moral standards, for which we are very appreciative. During his seven years as head coach, the SM football program has been faith based and has emphasized character development. I look forward to continued association with Coach Jacot in his new role as the school's first coordinator of strength and conditioning.'"

Johnson's sons Bret and Rob are on the Mission Viejo coaching staff. Bob Johnson said Rob seems to have more head-coaching aspirations than Bret does at this time.

Johnson has coached at Mission Viejo for 11 years. During his tenure, the Diablos have won eight league championships and three CIF championships. Mission was 12-1 this year, in which it lost to Servite by one point in the Pac-5 semifinals.