While he appreciates the gesture, Col. John Kopka didn’t know what all the fuss is about.
The 30-year Marine veteran and longtime Jacksonville High School football team contributor humbly questions why he deserves to have the Cardinals’ press box named in his honor.
“Any time they put your name on something, it’s an honor, but I think there are other people who deserve it more than me,” Kopka said. “I never expected this. It’s a total surprise, but I am thankful that they would think that much of me.”
The 85-year-old Kopka has been a part of the Jacksonville football team since 1994, serving the Cardinals in many different ways. His official title is the Cardinals’ “Get back coach,” but he also helps remind the coaches of down and distance, opposing teams’ formations, by being a liaison to officials and being a role model to coaches and players.
On Friday prior to Jacksonville’s 35-21 home victory over J.H. Rose, the school recognized Kopka by unveiling the “Col. John Kopka Press Box.”
“There’s not much I can say but that it means a lot for people to honor you for doing something I love doing,” Kopka said. “It’s an honor. And one thing that I cherish is the comments on Facebook that I have seen from people.”
Jacksonville coach Beau Williams said Kopka means a lot to the coaches, players and school community.
“The kids respect him, he respects people, and the kids buy into that love and how positive he is all of the time,” Williams said. “Col. Kopka is a great man.”
Jacksonville junior offensive lineman Tanner Jones agreed that Kopka is respected and beloved on the sidelines.
“It all starts with how he is there every single game supporting us and how he is always telling us to back up and always helping us,” Jones said. “He is always in a great mood. It starts when he gets there and when he’s talking to different people, getting their minds off different things.”
The press box named in his honor is another recognition for Kopka and his community service.
In 2016, Kopka was one of four recipients of the United Way of Onslow County Golden Rule Award and in 2018, he was one of seven people awarded the Fabric of Our Community Award by the Onslow Civic Affairs Committee.
Kopka received the Heroes Spirit Award during the 2019 Jacksonville-Onslow Sports Hall of Fame banquet.
But while he appreciates the recognition, Kopka stresses that he takes more pride in helping others.
“I am privileged to be able to show up and do what I do. I’ve had great coaches and great officials I’ve worked with over the years,” Kopka said. “And I love hanging out and talking with the young men. They are our future. I am proud of them and proud to be with them.”
Chris Miller can be contacted via email at cmiller@jdnews.com. Follow him on X @jdnsports.