Head Coach Lee Shaw announces retirement

As one Shaw steps down, another Shaw steps up.

Superintendent Melissa Williams announced Friday morning, that Head Coach/Athletic Director Lee Shaw will be resigning after leading the Wildcat nation for nearly seven seasons.

To fill his shoes, the school board has adopted the recommendation to name his son, Jaybo Shaw former offensive-coordinator, as Head Varsity Football Coach.

In his time of leading the Wildcat nation, Shaw has brought home six regional titles to Rabun and numerous memories that are sure to be missed.

“I’ve had a great career coaching football. It’s been one heck of a ride. A retired coach once told me, ‘ you’ll know when it’s time to retire’ and that statement became true after this past season,” Shaw said. “I always said that I would never stay in this profession if I felt like I was spent mentally and physically.”

Williams commented on behalf of the District and said Shaw will be leaving behind a legacy, but she is confident that his son will be able to hold the torch and continue to bring greatness to Wildcat football.

“It is with a great deal of regret that we accepted Coach Shaw’s resignation. He is loved by the school system and by this community. He is, Rabun County Football and he leaves such a strong legacy. He’s built an outstanding program and he is well respected in our county and throughout the state,” Williams said. “He’s put together an outstanding coaching staff and it’s been my privilege and honor to get to know him. At the same time, we are passing the torch to his son Jaybo who has been a valuable part of the coaching staff. I’m excited to see him put his stamp on the program. I think Rabun County football continues in strong safe hands as it stays in the Shaw family.”

Shaw said he is extremely thankful for his time as head coach within Rabun County, but said he is looking forward to seeing his son take over and lead the Wildcat nation.

“I’m grateful to so many for fueling my passion for this game. Especially thankful for the young boys that I watched grow into young men because of what this sport reveals about you. I appreciate the coaches on all my staffs that battled with me and believed in the process that I was selling, and I will miss the coaches I battled against. That competition brought out greatness in everyone,” Shaw said. “I now look forward to my son Jaybo taking over at Rabun and taking the program to another level. For me now, I’m going to take a deep breath and see what the next journey will be in my life.”