BREAKING: George Howanitz Named New Head Coach at Honesdale
By: Brad Loff | Sportzwire | April 15, 2025
SportzWire has learned that Honesdale has officially hired George Howanitz, the longtime former head coach of Valley View, to lead its football program—marking one of the biggest coaching moves in recent District 2 memory.
He replaces Paul Russick, who stepped down earlier this year to take the head coaching job at Pittston Area.
Howanitz, who led the Cougars for 16 seasons and racked up over 90 career wins, brings championship pedigree and a blue-collar mentality to a Honesdale team hungry for a turnaround. After stepping away following the 2022 season, Howanitz is back on the sidelines—this time ready to lead the Hornets into a new era.
At Valley View, Howanitz built one of the most consistent programs in the LFC, guiding the Cougars to deep playoff runs and district title contention year after year. His teams were known for their physicality, discipline, and relentless approach—traits he’ll now look to instill in Honesdale’s red and black.
This is a bold move by Honesdale—a clear signal that the Hornets are aiming to raise the bar. With one of the most respected coaches in the area now calling the shots, expectations just changed in Wayne County.
“It’s a great District and I’m so privileged to have an opportunity to work in another great community with great hard working student-athletes,” Howanitz told SportzWire. “I hope I can drive them toward championships and great memories.”
