By James Williams

After nearly a decade of molding young men and elevating a program rooted in pride, purpose, and perseverance, Coach Malik “Coach Lik” Jones has announced his resignation as Head Football Coach at Martin Luther King High School, his beloved alma mater.

“After much reflection and with a heart full of gratitude, I’m announcing my resignation as Head Football Coach at Martin Luther King High School,” Jones shared in a heartfelt public letter. “It has been the honor of a lifetime to lead the Cougars Football program.”

For the past nine seasons—six of them as head coach—Jones poured every ounce of himself into a football program that became more than just Xs and Os. It became a platform for transformation. A safe space. A brotherhood. A beacon for North Philadelphia youth trying to navigate life and loss while chasing greatness.

During his tenure, MLK secured the 2019 Public League 5A Championship and the 2023 Liberty Division title, racking up more than 25 wins and sending over 20 players to college on athletic scholarships. But for Coach Jones, the wins weren’t the point—they were a byproduct of something deeper.

“I was never perfect,” Jones wrote. “But I gave everything I had to build something special—something respectable, competitive, and proud for this school and this community.”

Coach Jones’ holistic approach to coaching, rooted in his background in behavioral health, included trauma-informed care, academic mentoring, and emotional support. His leadership drew local and statewide recognition: in 2021, he was named Uppity Magazine’s Coach of the Year, and in 2025, he was the only District 12 coach selected for the PSFCA East–West All-Star Game staff.

But accolades aside, what mattered most to Jones were the lives changed.

“To the countless young men I’ve had the chance to coach: I thank you for your trust, your loyalty, and your dedication to our vision,” he said. “You gave this program life and purpose.”

His story is one of return. A young man who once walked the halls of King without any formal football experience became the architect of one of the city’s most respected high school programs. His message to the next generation was clear:

“No matter where you come from, you can change your path if you’re willing to work hard, set goals, and believe in yourself.”

Though stepping down as head coach, Jones made it clear: he’s not stepping away from the community. He remains a proud supporter of MLK Football, confident in the strength of the program and the coaches who will carry the torch.

“Thank you all for allowing me to live out this dream. The journey continues,” he concluded.

Coach Malik Jones is leaving the sidelines—but the legacy he built will carry forward with every snap, every stride, and every life he touched.