OHSAA football: Perry High School to hire Massillon assistant Spencer Leno as head coach

Posted by author January 30, 2025 Football

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PERRY TWP. — Perry High School announced Thursday that Massillon assistant Spencer Leno will be the Panthers’ new varsity football head coach, pending board approval.

Leno would replace Zach Slates, who was not brought back after going 16-28 over four seasons as head coach.

“After an extensive search and careful consideration, we are thrilled to welcome Spencer Leno as our new Head Football Coach,” Perry athletic director Kevin Yoder said in a press release. “Coach Leno brings not only a wealth of experience but also a deep commitment to developing well-rounded student-athletes. His passion for the game and his dedication to creating a positive and hardworking environment will undoubtedly provide our athletes with an enriching experience that will prepare them for success on the field and beyond.”

A 2009 Massillon Washington High School graduate, Leno was a standout football player for the Tigers before playing collegiately at Wittenberg. He coached at Columbus Westland and Urbana high schools before returning to Massillon in 2018.

He most recently served as the Tigers’ defensive coordinator and inside linebackers coach for head coach Nate Moore.

“It is with tremendous honor and gratitude that I accept the opportunity to be the next Head Football Coach at Perry High School,” Leno said in a press release. “I look forward to joining this tight-knit community that prides itself on toughness, discipline and hard work. It is my mission to maximize the potential of each student athlete in the classroom, on the field, and in the community. I am beyond excited to be a Perry Panther and call Perry High School my home.”

Leno and his wife, Abby, live in Massillon with their three daughters, Raegan, Rowan and Tatum.

Perry Local Schools’ next board of education meeting is scheduled for Feb. 20.