Longtime Kentucky High School Football Coach Retires

Randy Borchers steps down after 18 years leading the Cooper Jaguars program

Apr. 13, 2026 at 4:10pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting in navy blue and gold hues, capturing the dynamic motion and energy of a high school football game in an abstract, deconstructed style.A cubist interpretation of the Cooper High School football program's storied history under the retiring Coach Borchers.Union Today

Randy Borchers, the head football coach of the Cooper High School Jaguars in Union, Kentucky, has announced his retirement after 18 years leading the program. During his tenure, Borchers led the team to four regional titles and four district championships, compiling an overall record of 118 wins.

Why it matters

Borchers' retirement marks the end of an era for the Cooper High School football program, which he helped build into a consistent contender in Kentucky high school football over the past two decades. His departure will leave a significant void that the school and community will need to fill as they search for a new leader to continue the Jaguars' winning tradition.

The details

Borchers announced his decision to step down on Monday, citing a need for reflection and many heartfelt conversations. Under his leadership, the Jaguars went 40-13 from 2022 to 2025, including a 9-5 record and a No. 22 state ranking in the final 2025 Kentucky high school football Massey Rankings.

  • Borchers announced his retirement on April 13, 2026.
  • He had been the head coach of the Cooper Jaguars since 2008.

The players

Randy Borchers

The longtime head football coach of the Cooper High School Jaguars in Union, Kentucky, who is retiring after 18 years leading the program.

Cooper High School

A high school located in Union, Kentucky, known for its strong academic programs and active student body, with a robust athletics department that includes the football team Borchers coached.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Cooper High School will now begin the process of searching for a new head football coach to lead the Jaguars program going forward.

The takeaway

Borchers' retirement marks the end of a highly successful era for the Cooper High School football program, which he helped build into a consistent contender in Kentucky over the past two decades. His departure will leave big shoes to fill as the school looks to find a new leader to continue the Jaguars' winning tradition.