Valdosta, GA — February 24, 2003 — Mr. Sam Allen, Superintendent of the Valdosta City School System announced this evening at a press conference that Rick Darlington of Apopka (FL) High School will be the new head football coach for the Valdosta High School Wildcats. Before coming to Valdosta High School, Coach Darlington led the Apopka (FL) Blue Darters football program to an overall record of 37-11, including the 2001 Class AAAAAA (6A) Florida State Championship and three straight playoff appearances.

A believer in character building, Coach Darlington pushes his players to be the best, not only on the field, but off as well. Coach Darlington began his coaching career at Lakeland (FL) H.S. as a Linebacker Coach and soon won the position of Defensive Coordinator under Bill Castle due to his intense drive and will to succeed. His three-year coaching record at his alma mater was 25-7 and won him his first head football coaching post. After accepting the head football coaching position at Fort Meade (FL) H.S. in 1994, he created a rigorous program centered on conditioning and discipline.

In 1995, Coach Darlington was offered the position of Linebacker and Running Back coach at one of Florida’s premiere H.S. football programs, Bay High School in Panama City, FL. While at Bay H.S. Coach Darlington helped lead his team to an 11-2 record and a first place ranking in class AAAAA (5A) football. His success on and off the field won him another head coaching position at Eustis (FL) High School after a short stint as Eustis’ offensive coordinator. A regular in regional and state playoff games, Coach Darlington will make an exceptional addition to the Valdosta High School staff and community.

Coach Darlington is married to Shelly, and has five children, ages one to ten and holds a B.B.A. in Business Management form Stetson University (1978). Coach D. is active in the community as well, and has been involved in the Fellowship for Christian Athletes for almost twenty years as a coach and huddle leader.

The national search began Wednesday, December 19, 2002 and was conducted by a Citizens’ Advisory Committee appointed by the Valdosta Board of Education. The committee’s role was to recommend three applicants to the Valdosta Board of Education for possible employment. The Head Football Coach/Athletic Director will lead the winningest high school football program in the nation, and will be responsible for all athletic programs and facilities in the Valdosta City School System. The national search heeded excellent results, with applications received from all over the country.

The Valdosta (GA) Wildcats, with an 802-165-34 overall record, have amassed 23 State Championships and 6 National Championships since the programs inception. Applications were extended to all individuals with superlative experience in coaching, leadership, and athletic administrative duties.

The Valdosta City School system serves more than 7,000 students in 9 schools. Valdosta is a city of approximately 50,000 residents, and is located in south central Georgia, 15 miles north of Florida.

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