The Oxbridge Academy has selected Jason McCleod as its next head football coach. McCleod is a 2018 graduate of Oxbridge and a current faculty member who has taught humanities and essential skills to middle school students for the past two years. He has also served as an assistant football coach for the ThunderWolves.
“I am pleased to announce an exciting new chapter for our football program. After a thorough and thoughtful search, we are thrilled to welcome Jason McCleod as our new head coach,” Oxbridge Athletic Director Stan Ross said. “Coach McCleod brings experience, a passion for developing athletes on and off the field, and a commitment to fostering a culture of excellence, integrity and teamwork. I am confident we will achieve great things under his leadership.”
McCleod is already setting high expectations and articulating a vision for the team that extends beyond the game. “I’m thrilled to lead the team and encourage a winning environment built on respect and integrity — respect for staff, teachers, referees and an appreciation for the opportunities our players have here at Oxbridge,” he said. “My goal for each player is for them to develop a strong sense of identity and purpose that transcends the football field. I aim to strengthen the bonds between teammates on and off the field and inspire them to embrace their purpose and responsibility as student-athletes.”
McCleod’s deep connection to Oxbridge and his stellar credentials as a student-athlete further highlight his qualifications. As a ThunderWolves defensive back during his junior year, he earned first-team All-County and second-team All-State honors and recognition as a scholar-athlete. His coach at the time described him as one of the most intelligent and prepared players he had ever coached. In addition to his athletic achievements, McCleod served as class vice president during his senior year.
After graduating from Oxbridge, McCleod earned a bachelor’s degree in political science with a concentration in international relations and a minor in music from the University of Pennsylvania. He also earned a master’s degree in communications from Sacred Heart University. A defensive back on the UPenn football team, he earned All-Ivy League Second Team honors as a senior in 2021.
Reflecting on his return to Oxbridge as a teacher, McCleod described it as “an amazing experience,” adding, “I enjoy teaching, connecting with and learning from each of the students. As a second-year teacher, I feel so supported by my colleagues, especially those who played roles in my academic journey.”
