Julien, who held the same position at the school until 2006, is one of the most successful boys basketball coaches in the school’s history. Under his leadership, the Wildcats advanced to the Top 28 tournament, two state quarterfinals and four consecutive playoff appearances.
“I want to help our players win the championship and I want to continue to build on the winning ways that Coach Yussef Jasmine started at East St. John High School,” Julien said. “My goal is also to prepare students for the game of life, so mentoring young men from our community is huge for me.”
Julien has worked with youth for more than 25 years, leading two parish teams to the National Biddy Championship and coaching several travel teams. He has been employed as a teacher since 1999 and is well known for his service in the community, including time as a St. John the Baptist Parish councilman.
“Charles Julien has been a staple in the community and has lived and served in St. John the Baptist Parish,” East St. John High School Principal Tabari Simon said. “It is always a great day to have an opportunity to employ individuals who have the best interest of students and the school at heart. I look forward to having Mr. Charles Julien on staff to work as a teacher and varsity basketball coach. We expect great things from him as a mentor, teacher and coach of our students.”
Julien said he hopes to build excitement for the team among students and the community.
“The style we want to play is fan-friendly,” he said. “We’re going to get up and down. It will be face-paced.”