The Michigan Arrows coaching staff brings a powerful blend of deep Michigan roots and elite experience from every level of football. Head Coach and General Manager Steve Kazor returns to the state with a storied career that includes roles as general manager of the original Michigan Panthers and extensive NFL and CFL scouting and coaching experience. Offensive Coordinator Les Koenning adds over 35 years of collegiate and professional coaching expertise, while Defensive Coach Pepper Johnson—a Detroit native and multiple-time Super Bowl champion—delivers championship pedigree and proven leadership. Additional key contributors like Coach Terry Mitchell, a 5x national champion as both player and coach with high school state titles and indoor football success, round out a staff rich in winning backgrounds.
True to the Arrows’ vision, the coaching staff prioritizes home-grown Michigan talent while leveraging vast experience as coaches and players across high school, college, indoor, and professional ranks. Many on the staff have direct ties to Michigan programs, communities, and talent pipelines—from Jackson Northwest High School to Grand Valley State and beyond. This combination ensures our players receive instruction grounded in local pride, hard work, and a proven pathway to success, building a franchise that reflects the toughness and talent of Michigan football.
Arrows Up!

Steve Kazor serves as the Head Coach and General Manager of the Michigan Arrows, bringing decades of professional football experience, championship pedigree, and proven leadership to the organization. Kazor was part of a Super Bowl–winning coaching staff, giving him firsthand experience at the highest level of the game and a deep understanding of what it takes to build a winning culture.
Kazor also has strong ties to Michigan football through his time as General Manager of the Michigan Panthers, where he played a key role in building and shaping the roster. His experience with the Panthers adds credibility and a deep understanding of the Michigan football landscape as the Arrows look to establish themselves in the state.
In addition to his front office success, Kazor has spent time with the Detroit Lions, further strengthening his connection to the region and its football community. Known for his disciplined approach, attention to detail, and ability to develop talent, he is focused on building a competitive roster and creating opportunities for players to succeed at the next level.
With Super Bowl experience and deep Michigan roots, Coach Kazor is a cornerstone in establishing the Michigan Arrows as a respected and competitive franchise

Les Koenning serves as the Offensive Coordinator for the Michigan Arrows, bringing decades of elite offensive experience, creative play-calling, and a proven ability to build explosive, record-setting attacks.
A veteran coach with roots in Texas and extensive Power Five experience, Koenning has served as offensive coordinator at programs including Texas A&M, Mississippi State, Alabama, and others. He has called plays for high-powered offenses that produced school records in total yards, passing yards, and scoring. At Mississippi State, his units set a then-school record with 434.4 yards per game in 2013 and delivered some of the program's top seasons in offensive production. He also spent time as an offensive staff assistant with the NFL’s Miami Dolphins.
Known for his quarterback development, tempo, and big-play schemes, Koenning has mentored numerous NFL-caliber players, including standout quarterbacks. He brings energy, attention to detail, and a championship-caliber mindset to the Arrows, focused on installing a disciplined, physical, and explosive offense that complements the team’s tough defensive identity.

Thomas “Pepper” Johnson serves as a Defensive Coach for the Michigan Arrows, bringing elite-level experience, championship pedigree, and a hard-nosed defensive mindset to the team. A Detroit native, Johnson’s football roots run deep in the state of Michigan, making his role with the Arrows especially meaningful.
Johnson was a standout linebacker at Ohio State before going on to a successful NFL career with the New York Giants, where he was a two-time Super Bowl champion as a player. After his playing days, he transitioned into coaching, earning multiple Super Bowl titles as part of NFL coaching staffs and continuing to build his legacy in the game.
He also spent time coaching with the Detroit Lions, further strengthening his connection to the local football community. Known for his toughness, leadership, and defensive expertise, Johnson brings a championship mentality and veteran presence to the Arrows.
With experience at the highest levels of football, Pepper Johnson is focused on developing disciplined, physical players and helping build a strong defensive identity for the Michigan Arrows.

Terry Mitchell serves as an Offensive Coach for the Michigan Arrows, bringing a championship mindset, high-level experience, and deep local roots to the organization. A Port Huron native, Terry represents the community-first foundation of the Arrows and takes pride in helping build something special in his hometown area.
A multi-sport standout, Terry earned All-American honors in both football and track & field and is a five-time national champion one in track and four in football. He began his collegiate football career at Harper College, where he won two national championships before transferring to Grand Valley State University, adding two more national titles to his résumé.
Following his college career, Terry signed with the Washington Redskins as an undrafted free agent, gaining valuable experience at the professional level.
He continued his success in indoor football, winning three championships as a player and two more as a coach, while also contributing to championship-winning teams at the high school level.
With a decorated background as both a player and coach, Terry brings leadership, experience, and a strong understanding of offensive football to the Michigan Arrows. His connection to Port Huron and his winning pedigree make him a key piece of the team’s foundation as they continue to grow.
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