From the Field to the Community: JoJuan Armour’s Football Journey and Contributions to Toledo

JoJuan Armour’s life in football is a testament to his dedication both on and off the field. His journey from a high school star in Toledo to an NFL and CFL player, and now a community leader and coach, exemplifies his commitment to the sport and his city.

High School Glory at Central Catholic
JoJuan Armour began his football career at Central Catholic High School in Toledo, Ohio. As a linebacker and running back, Armour quickly made a name for himself. He was a two-time first-team All-City selection and received second-team Division I All-Ohio honors. His outstanding performances led him to be named Toledo City League Player of the Year in 1994, marking him as one of the top high school athletes in the region.

College Stardom at Miami University
Continuing his football journey, Armour attended Miami University in Ohio, where he solidified his reputation as a formidable linebacker. During his college career, he was a three-time All-MAC selection and won the MAC Defensive Player of the Year award twice. Armour amassed 396 total tackles and 24.5 sacks, culminating in a third-team All-American selection in his senior year. His achievements at Miami University set the stage for his professional career.

Professional Career in the NFL and CFL
Armour was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the seventh round of the 1999 NFL Draft. He found more playing time with the Cincinnati Bengals, where he played from 1999 to 2002. Following his NFL stint, Armour transitioned to the Canadian Football League (CFL), where he played for the BC Lions, Hamilton Tiger-Cats, and Calgary Stampeders. He capped his professional playing career with a Grey Cup victory with Calgary in 2008 before retiring in 2010.

Giving Back to Toledo: Football Camps and Community Initiatives
Even during his professional career, Armour remained committed to giving back to his hometown of Toledo. He organized football camps for young athletes, providing them with opportunities to learn from a professional and gain valuable skills. His camps focused not just on athletic development but also on fostering discipline, teamwork, and a strong work ethic among the youth.

After retiring from professional football, Armour continued his community involvement by working closely with the city of Toledo and the Mayor’s office on various initiatives. One of his significant contributions has been his involvement in the Gun Violence Prevention initiative. Armour’s work in this area focuses on reducing gun violence and creating safer environments for young people in Toledo. By leveraging his influence and experience, he has helped shape programs that aim to provide positive alternatives and support for at-risk youth.

Coaching Career and Continued Impact
In his post-playing career, Armour has transitioned into coaching, bringing his extensive knowledge and experience to the next generation of athletes. He served as a defensive lineman coach at Whitmer High School in Toledo before being named head coach at Reynoldsburg High School. Armour’s coaching philosophy emphasizes character development, academic achievement, and community involvement alongside athletic excellence.

His dedication to coaching and community service has not gone unnoticed. Armour was nominated for the Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year Award, an honor that recognizes high school coaches who demonstrate exceptional leadership, integrity, and a commitment to player health and safety.

Legacy and Impact
JoJuan Armour’s journey from high school standout to professional athlete and community leader is a testament to his unwavering dedication to football and his hometown of Toledo. His contributions on the field are matched by his efforts to make a positive impact off the field, through coaching, community service, and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of young people. Armour’s legacy is one of perseverance, leadership, and a deep commitment to giving back to the community that shaped him.

Through his work, JoJuan Armour continues to inspire and influence countless young athletes and community members, demonstrating that true success lies in using one’s talents and opportunities to benefit others. His story is a powerful example of how sports can be a vehicle for positive change and community development (JoJuan Armour – Wikipedia) (Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year Award | NFL Play Football).