Bloomfield Hills High School’s football team is entering an exciting new era under the leadership of Coach Scott Merchant, who brings over 30 years of coaching experience to the program. With a strong track record of success at both the high school and collegiate level and a passion for mentoring student-athletes, he is eager to make an impact both on and off the field.
Coach Merchant began his coaching journey as a college assistant coach at Albion College, where he spent five years and was part of a national championship team. He later transitioned to coaching high school football, spending nine years at University of Detroit Jesuit High School, where he helped lead the team to the state playoffs and the state semifinals twice—an achievement the program had never accomplished before.
After earning a master’s degree in counseling, he became an assistant coach at Brother Rice for two years, and later served as the head coach at Chippewa Valley High School for 15 years, where he won a state championship in 2018. Most recently, he was the head coach at Lawrence Technological University.
Merchant got his first taste of coaching leading a powder puff game in high school. Inspired by the positive influence of his own coaches, he knew early on that he wanted to make a similar impact. “They had such a positive impact on my life,” he said. “I wanted to make that same kind of impact on others.”
“The football field is my classroom,” he said. His philosophy centers on teamwork, discipline, attention to detail, and sacrifice. He is committed to shaping players into not just better athletes, but better individuals.
Merchant was drawn to our school for its high-quality education, outstanding facilities, and personal connections—his daughter graduated in 2022 after winning a state soccer championship and his son currently plays football here. With his new coaching position, he sees this role as an opportunity to give back to the community.
His top priorities this season include creating a memorable football experience for players, helping players achieve their dreams, developing them for opportunities beyond high school, and helping them get recruited. With a track record of over 125 former players going on to play in college—and four making it to the NFL—he is committed to providing exposure and guidance for aspiring athletes.
Merchant emphasizes hard work, discipline, and selflessness. His coaching style is exciting, competitive, focusing on playing smart, tough football. “Being part of something bigger than yourself”, Merchant said, as he described the culture he hopes to bring to the Black Hawks this year.
With the season approaching, Coach Merchant is focused on getting more students interested and involved. Off-season workouts have already drawn significant participation, and a major spring meeting in May will provide more opportunities for players to join. “Anyone is welcome,” he said, encouraging students to consider being part of the program.
As the Bloomfield Hills High School football team gears up for a new chapter, Coach Merchant is ready to lead with commitment, experience, and dedication. “I love the game of football, Ive learned alot about people and life. To be able to pass that positive experience onto other people is my way of giving back to the game.” Our school’s future looks bright under his leadership.
