Cancer Diagnosis Forces Haynes King’s Father to Make Critical Career Decision

John King, the coach who turned Haynes King into a record-breaking quarterback, now faces the fight of his life. The Texas mentor, who led Haynes and the Longview Lobos to a state championship and saw him break the ACC completion record, just received a cancer diagnosis. John, known for his unwavering commitment both on and off the field, is at a pivotal moment, facing tough decisions about his future. The same determination that made an athlete a star is now being tested in a personal fight, showing that even the strongest mentors face life-changing challenges.

Growing up in Longview, Texas, shaped King’s understanding of high expectations. As the son of legendary Longview Lobos coach John King, Haynes witnessed his father guide the team to 17 district championships and a 2018 state title. He spent his youth immersed in football, absorbing the pressures and culture of the sport. These experiences instilled discipline, resilience, and the mental toughness needed to succeed under pressure. Now, this anchor of success faces a health challenge. Imagine your head coach receiving a cancer diagnosis—yet still leading the team.

That’s exactly what John King is doing. On August 26, King told Longview News-Journal sports editor Jack Stallard, “It’s something hopefully they can cut out. …no radiation. We’re going to be proactive and do the procedure as soon as possible. Might be later this week, but the sooner the better.” Despite the diagnosis, he’s determined to coach the Lobos at home Friday against Lufkin. This season marks his 22nd as head coach, a tenure that began in 2004. Under King’s leadership, the Lobos have consistently made the playoffs.

That’s resilience and determination embodied in John King. Despite a health setback and the need for immediate surgery, he remains dedicated to his team. He’s still developing top-tier talent, including Division I prospects and future NFL players such as Malcolm Kelly and Trent Williams, through his program. Under his guidance, the Lobos have consistently excelled in district play, boasting an outstanding 118-9 record. King sets the standard in every practice and every game.

Haynes King’s father https://t.co/6wbHcSUkQh

— Chad Bishop (@MrChadBishop) August 30, 2025

But John King’s legacy extends beyond victories; it’s rooted in his relationships with others. Before becoming the famed Longview High coach, King was a Northwestern State University offensive lineman, starting all four years and even playing all five positions in one game. King reflected on early coaching struggles after college, saying, “That was kind of a wake-up call.” After being let go following a losing season at NSU, he quickly learned the business side of coaching: “You do your job, or they’ll find someone else to do it.”

Then King rebounded, refining his skills at Vidor High School, West Ouachita, and Ouachita Parish under mentors like Pat Collins. Coach King said, “He taught me how to treat people,” adding, “Whether it was a football player, a parent, a band member, or a cheerleader, it didn’t matter because they’re all important.” This philosophy became a cornerstone of his approach at Longview, where he stresses the value of every individual in the program. Now, you can understand why even health concerns can’t stop him from coaching his team.

And that’s exactly what he inculcated in Haynes King too.

John King’s support for Haynes

When King arrived in Longview in 2004, he found a special chance. He became head coach with Collins’ backing, even though he’d never been a head coach before. “In my mind, I didn’t see what the big deal was when they hired me as a first-year head coach, because I knew the kids and I knew I could do the job,” he said. He quickly proved himself, leading the Lobos to success right away, with district titles and playoff runs, building the base for a dynasty in East Texas. Despite consistent success, early losses stung. The Lobos lost several playoff games, including a 2004 third-round loss to Lufkin. These experiences formed King’s coaching style, emphasizing persistence, preparation, and resilience. And he instilled those values in his son.

When Haynes became Longview’s starting quarterback in 2017, the father-son relationship took center stage. John King had always cautioned Haynes about the QB spot, knowing its pressures. He’d even encouraged Haynes to try a different role when he was younger, constantly warning him about the difficulties of being Longview’s quarterback. But Haynes rose to the challenge, leading the Lobos to a state championship in 2018. “I’m going to tell you this – Every kid that plays high school football has dreams and aspirations of winning a state championship,” John King said. “Every coach that has a kid that plays has that same dream. That was unbelievable.”

That championship win solidified their shared legacy, highlighting John’s leadership and Haynes’ skill. John King remained a constant presence, even as his son achieved national recognition and received scholarship offers. “This is where he was born and raised,” John King said. “It’s his home—he wants to win games with his teammates. That’s what I’m most proud of—he’s a great teammate. He couldn’t care less about any individual award. He knows the importance of teamwork.”

Even now, he’s concerned about his team and standing tall beside him. Well, let’s hope John King recovers soon and gives Lobos that playoff run he always aims for.

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