School: Mason 1988-2016, University of Mount Union 2017-2018, Michigan State University 2019
Notable Accomplishments: Seven Conference Championships: 1992, 1994, 2002, 2008-2011; Consecutive Regular Season Wins: (13) 2008-2009, (12) 2011-2012; Most Wins in School History (169) as Mason High School Head Coach, 1991-2016; 15 Years State Playoff Qualifier: 1992, 1994-1995, 2002-2004, 2006, 2008-2011, 2013-2016; First Playoff Game in School History 1992; One District Championships 2014; One MHSFCA Academic All-State Team 2014; Three Time Coach of the Year (Lansing State Journal) 1992, 2002, 2008; While Coaching at The University of Mount Union: Division III National Champions 2017, Division III National Runner-up 2018; MHSFCA East/West All-Star Game West Coach 2012; Six Time MHSFCA Regional Coach of the Year 1994-1995, 2002, 2008, 2010, 2014.
Coach VanHavel graduated from Morenci High School in 1983. He attended The University of Toledo for two years followed by two years at Hillsdale College where he enjoyed a fulfilling football career. Jerry graduated from Hillsdale College in 1987 with a Bachelor Science degree in Elementary Education and, in 1990, he earned his Masters in Educational Leadership. He has taught sixth and seventh grade at Mason Middle School for 24 years.
Coach VanHavel began his football coaching career at Mason High School in 1988 as the Freshman and JV Coach. In 1991, Jerry took over as the head coach. During his 21 year tenure, the program has experienced vast success: 7 Conference Championships including the most recent four years, 11 playoff berths (which had never occurred prior to 1991), and 133 career wins setting a school record.
Jerry has been awarded Regional Coach of the Year 7 times and Lansing State Journal Coach of the Year in 1992. Additionally, Jerry has been instrumental in sending over 20 young men to the collegiate level in their football careers.
Jerry and his wife of 23 years, Lisa, have four children. Erika (20) plays volleyball at Alma College, Erin (17) is a high school senior, Emily (16) is a high school sophomore and Jarrett (14) is a high school freshman in Mason.
Coach VanHavel said, “I am very humbled and grateful that I can represent the Mason coaches and players in this game. The support of my wife, Lisa, my children, and father, John, have enabled me to coach all these years. I thank you all for your love and support.”