2007 Adams USA Coach of the Year

Adams USA National Coach of the Year - Winningest Coach Named
Summerville, S.C.’s Coach McKissick to be honored December 7
SAN ANTONIO, TX – The all-time winningest high school football coach in the world is about to receive one of the most prestigious awards in the game – the Adams USA National Coach of the Year Award. McKissick, who just completed his 54th season at the helm at Summerville (S.C.) High School, has amassed an eye-popping record of 543-128-13.

McKissick will be honored at a special ceremony in the high school this Thursday, Dec. 7, at 2 p.m. The honor is one of many being awarded in conjunction with the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, which takes place Jan. 6, 2007, at the Alamodome in San Antonio, TX. This classic East vs. West match-up featuring the 80 best high school football players in the country, produced by Sportslink, will be televised live on NBC at 1 p.m. (EST).

“This is a great honor,” said the 80-year old McKissick, who has no plans to retire anytime soon. “I feel humbled by this.”

McKissick’s 2006 team, the Region 8 champs, finished with a record of 12-1. He has had only two losing seasons in over a half-decade of football that has spanned a daunting variety of generations. What is his program’s secret to success?

“We’ve always changed with the times,” said McKissick, who has coached countless all-stars over the years. “Staying around young people helps. It keeps you young.” In McKissick’s case, very young!

“Coach McKissick’s outlook on football – and life - has positively influenced many people over the years,” noted Garry McNabb, Vice President at Adams USA. “He is truly deserving of this award. We offer him our heartfelt congratulations.”

Adams USA is one of the world’s largest providers of sports products. The Tennessee-based company, which started in 1947, specializes in football gear, as well as baseball and softball products.

Gary Joe Kinne of Canton High School in Canton, TX, was last year’s Coach of the Year.

Since its inception, the U.S. Army All-American Bowl has been a key launching pad for America’s future college and NFL stars. The 16 join the likes of Reggie Bush, Vince Young, Brady Quinn, and Adrian Peterson who all made their national debuts as U.S. Army All-Americans.

Excerpts taken from Adams USA Press Release - November 28, 2006.
Posted 12/4/06