Staff file photo / Neel Madhavan. Mike Pavlansky (right) stands with former Canfield star quarterback Broc Lowry (12) in the aftermath of the Cardinals’ first state championship last year at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton.

“I enjoyed every minute of it, but it just feels like the right time to move on.”

Canfield Head Coach Mike Pavlansky Steps Down After 23 Years

After a successful coaching career at Canfield High School, Mike Pavlansky has announced that he will not be returning for the 2024 season. Pavlansky, who led the Canfield football program for 23 years, made the decision known to his players and staff on Tuesday morning. Throughout his tenure, Pavlansky achieved numerous accomplishments, including seven league championships, 13 playoff appearances, five regional title games, and a state championship in 2022.

Canfield Football’s First-Ever State Title

In 2022, Pavlansky guided the Cardinals to their first-ever football state title. The team finished with a record of 14-1, defeating Bloom-Carroll 35-14 in the Division III championship game in Canton. Pavlansky’s overall record at Canfield stands at an impressive 183-76.

A Legacy of Leadership and Success

Pavlansky’s coaching career extends beyond Canfield, with a total record of 211-98, which includes previous coaching stints at Lisbon and Mentor. Despite his retirement from teaching three years ago, Pavlansky continued to lead the Cardinals to success on the football field.

Reflecting on the Decision

Explaining his decision to step down, Pavlansky stated, “I enjoyed every minute of it, I still enjoyed it this year as much as ever, but I just felt like it was time to move on.” While he will undoubtedly miss the thrill of Friday nights on the field, he believes the bonds formed behind the scenes and the daily interactions with the players were the most rewarding aspects of coaching.

Impact on Players and the Community

Former Warren John F. Kennedy head coach Dom Prologo, who worked alongside Pavlansky for over a decade, emphasized the significance of Pavlansky’s impact off the field. Prologo highlighted Pavlansky’s investment in his players’ personal growth and success beyond football. The Canfield football program will undoubtedly continue to thrive, but Prologo acknowledged that Pavlansky’s departure marked the end of a special era.

Pavlansky’s Legacy

Canfield athletic director Greg Cooper described Pavlansky as the cornerstone of Canfield athletics and praised his dedication to the job and the positive attributes he brought to the school district. The search for a new head coach will begin immediately, but finding a suitable replacement for Pavlansky’s legendary status will undoubtedly be a challenge.