Interview: 2024 AFC Don Shula Award Winner John Hart of Brownsburg High School

John Hart of Brownsburg High School in Indiana is the AFC winner of the NFL’s 2024 Don Shula High School Coach of the Year award. This past season, Hart led Brownsburg to its first state championship since the mid-80s. The 6A title led the Bulldogs to being ranked No. 79 in the High School Football America 300 national rankings.

The NFL selected Hart and Bill Jacklin of Slinger HS (Wisconsin) as the NFC Shula Award winner from among the 32 club nominees based on character, integrity, leadership, community service, commitment to player health and safety and on-field success. Hart is the Indianapolis Colts nominee for the award.

Hart attended the Pro Bowl Games in Orlando and Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, enjoying VIP access to events, practices and other celebrations of football, as well as engaging with various members of the NFL community.

In addition, Hart receives a $10,000 prize and a $15,000 grant for the Brownsburg football program, courtesy of the NFL Foundation and Nike.

“Coach Hart represents the qualities and values exemplified by Coach Shula, and we’re very proud a Hoosier football coach was selected among all AFC nominees to represent the Colts, his school and his community in front of the entire NFL world,” said Colts legend and current Football Development Commissioner Mike Prior.

Below, Coach Hart talks with High School Football America’s Jeff Fisher about winning the prestigious award.