Athletics Administration

Keith Gravitt- Athletic Director

Keith Gravitt

770-781-2264 ext.100610

Cumming, Georgia native and University of North Georgia graduate Keith Gravitt has served as the Director of Athletics at South Forsyth High School since August 2004. He has previously coached basketball, soccer, baseball, and volleyball at various times while at North Forsyth High School (1995-1996) and South Forsyth High School (1996-Present). In addition, he heads the Girls Basketball Program for the Lady War Eagles, a position he has held since 2003.

Gravitt has been with the Forsyth County School System for 25 years and began his education career in the Social Studies classroom, teaching World Geography and United States History. When the position of Automotive Collision Repair opened at South Forsyth High School, he applied considering this vocation had been part of Gravitt’s life for over 30 year and was hired. Since arriving at SFHS, he has been part of the CTAE Department, Social Studies department, and Leadership Team.

Coach Gravitt feels blessed to work with outstanding coaches that lead 25 Varsity Sports Programs at South Forsyth High School. He has been fortunate to coach 16 players that have competed at the collegiate level. Seven teams he has coached have reached the GHSA State Tournament, with a Final Four appearance. His greatest satisfaction comes from the relationships that have been built with the community, staff members, and most importantly student-athletes.

Keith is married to Sarah Montgomery Gravitt, a former educator and coach. They have two girls, ages 9 and 5, who always keep them on their toes!

October 2020
Shayla Brawner-Associate Athletic Director

Shayla Brawner

770-781-2264 ext 100196

Now in her twelfth season at the helm of the Competition Cheerleading Program, Shayla Brawner serves as the Head Competition Cheerleading Coach and Associate Athletic Director at South Forsyth High School. Previous coaching roles and responsibilities have included SFHS Cheerleading Coordinator (2009-2019), Assistant Competition Cheerleading Coach (2008), Head Varsity Football Sideline Cheerleading Coach (2009-2015, 2018), and Head Varsity Basketball Sideline Cheerleading Coach (2008-2013).

During her tenure with the program, the team has earned one State Championship (2017), four State Runner-Up Titles (2015, 2016, 2018, 2019), three Sectional Championships (2014, 2017, 2018), four Region Championships (2013, 2015, 2016, 2019), and two Region Runner-Up titles (2009, 2014). The program has had eleven athletes named to the All-State team, with two winning the title of Cheerleader of the Year. In addition, the 2013 team was named Team of the Year by the Georgia Cheerleading Coaches Association. Furthermore, numerous athletes have continued their cheerleading career at the collegiate level at The University of Georgia, University of South Carolina, Baylor University, University of Mississippi, Valdosta State University, and Georgia Southern University.

She currently serves as the President of the Georgia Cheerleading Coaches Association and has served the organization in numerous capacities including 1st Vice President/Treasurer, 2nd Vice President/Secretary, Region Representative, Website developer, Social Media Chair, Team of the Year Coordinator, and Coach of the Year Coordinator. Coach Brawner was named the Georgia Cheerleading Coaches Association Coach of the Year in 2017. She also earned top honors from the National Federation of High School Coaches for 2017-2018 as the Girls’ Spirit Coach of the Year. However, the most noteworthy accomplishments are the countless lifelong relationships which she has built with her student-athletes, along with their families. Coach Brawner feels blessed to be part of the incredible Competition Cheerleading legacy at South Forsyth High School. The success of the program was established upon its inception as excellence was expected by former coaches and athletes as evidenced by the six State Championships previously won (1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003).

Brawner has been with the Forsyth County School System for 13 years and began her career as a Biology teacher after receiving a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of North Georgia, formerly North Georgia College and State University, (2007) followed by a Master’s degree in Science Education from the University of Georgia (2009). She earned a Specialist degree in Teacher Leadership/Curriculum and Instruction from Valdosta State University (2013) and a Tier 1 Leadership Certificate from the University of North Georgia (2020). She currently serves as the instructor for the Teaching as a Profession pathway which includes three courses: Examining the Teaching Profession, Contemporary Issues in Education, and Teaching as a Profession Practicum. She serves as the FCCLA co-advisor as well. Other courses she has taught include Honors Biology, Environmental Science, Physical Science, High School Transition, Directed Study, Peer Facilitation and APEX. Since arriving at SFHS, she has been part of the CTAE Department, Science Department, and Athletic Department.

Coach Brawner resides in Cumming, Georgia with her husband of ten years, Taylor Brawner, an SFHS Alumni and graduate of Samford University. They have three energetic children and enjoy spending time outdoors together as a family, traveling to Disney, and cheering for the South Forsyth War Eagles and Georgia Bulldogs!

October 2020
Sandy Dupee- Athletics Administrative Asst.

Baseball

Russ Bayer-Head Coach
Russ Bayer

Head Baseball Coach

770-781-2264 ext. 100505

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Bayer began coaching at Roswell High School under close friend and mentor, Mike Power. In his 5 seasons at Roswell, Coach Bayer was fortunate to work with multiple draft picks and over 15 players under his tutelage went on to play Division 1 college baseball.

Coach Bayer is in his 12th year as a teacher and Head Coach of the War Eagle Baseball program. He has been teaching and coaching now for 17 years. Coach Bayer teaches a myriad of subjects from Turf Management, Intro to General Horticulture, Driver’s Education, Weight Training and Health!

As the Head Baseball Coach at South Coach Bayer has:
- sent 43 players on to play college baseball at various levels
- 2 players get taken in the Major League Baseball Amateur Draft.
In Coach Bayer's tenure the program has garnered multiple accolades on the National Level:
- 2010 the War Eagle program rose in the national rankings all the way up to #2 spot in the country before eventually ending a 16 game winning streak and falling out of the top 10.
- 2012 and 2018 South once again broke into the top 25 Nationally and stayed there for the majority of the 2018 season.
- 2019 the War Eagles were invited to participate in the prestigious National High School Invitational in Cary, NC. This great honor was bestowed upon the program as a reflection of the 2018 season where the program won 27 games en route to running away with the Region 5 7A title and spending a large majority of the year atop the state’s polls. The 2018 season also saw 9 War Eagles go on and sign to play at the college level in one graduating class.
Over the years the War Eagles as well have been known to play and beat many state and nationally ranked teams and have played some of the most difficult non region schedules possible in the southeast regularly traveling across state lines to play the best possible competition.

Along with the on the field accolades, War Eagle Field in itself has also had it’s share of success. The major development and expansive growth of the playing surface and facilities in Coach Bayer’s time has helped it garner the honor of the Georgia Dugout Club Field of the Year in both 2011 and 2017. War Eagle Field was also nominated by Turface for National Field of the Year in 2017. The development of the facility allowed Coach Bayer the opportunity with the support of the school and county to launch a career pathway of Turf Management for the High School.

In 2013 Coach Bayer started the Forsyth County unsigned Senior Showcase with the intent of showing off and growing the opportunities for all the young men at each High School in the county by playing in a free showcase for the young men in the county. It has grown tremendously over the 8 years where annually where many young men and colleges attend annually. The showcase has helped over 35 Forsyth County Seniors get offers to play at the next level.

Education:
- Coach Bayer attended Miami University in Oxford, Ohio where he played and lettered 4 years under Head Coach Tracy Smith as a pitcher and first basemen.
Family:

Coach Bayer has been married to the former Jessica Rayburg of Arnold, Pa for 15 years, who was also a scholarship athlete at Miami of Ohio (volleyball) and also coached for 5 years at Harrison High School and just completed her first season helping with the volleyball program at South Forsyth!. They have 2 sons: Tyler (14) who is a freshman at South and Jacob (12), a 7^th grade at South Forsyth Middle School.

Personal Awards & Accolades:
- Coach Bayer is native of Naperville, Il. where he was a 2 time All-State selection,
- 2^nd Team All-American
- the only 2-time Daily Herald player of the year award winner in the State of Illinois.
- a key member of the 1997 Naperville North Baseball program that was ranked #2 in the Baseball America Polls in the spring of 1997.
- Coach Bayer was then selected by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 35th round of the 1998 June amateur Draft.
- played for the prestigious Midland Redskins in Cincinnati, Oh where he won a Connie Mack World Series in Farmington, New Mexico.
- runner up votes for MAC Freshman of the Year in 1999
- Pepsi pitcher of the week multiple times and as well holds many career records in Miami and MAC history. He is still currently 2^nd all time in Miami history with career winds (28) and also in the top 10 in career wins, innings pitched, strike outs and complete games.
- pitch in the NCAA tournament, starting Game #3 of the Tempe Regional against University of Texas.
- summer of 2000 and 2001 Coach Bayer was fortunate enough to receive invitations to play in the prestigious Cape Cod summer league for the Wareham Gatemen. In 2001 Coach Bayer finished the summer with a 7-1 record and a 1.67 ERA and won the Francis Tripp award, along with the CCBL summer championship
- 2002 Coach Bayer was again drafted, this time by the Pittsburgh Pirates. Signing his first professional contract, he began his rookie campaign in short season A. During one point in the 2003 season, Coach Bayer led all of minor league baseball in ERA.
- Before his retirement in 2004, Coach Bayer also won a New York Penn league Championship and the Max Boarder “Good Guy” award or his charitable work on and off the field.
October 2020
Adam Baldwin- Assistant Varsity Coach
Adam Baldwin

Assistant Varsity Coach

770-781-2264 ext. 100465

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Adam Baldwin is in his 10th year of teaching/coaching.Baldwin has been at South Forsyth High School for 7 years teaching in the Special Education department as well as coaching baseball and softball. Prior to coming to South Forsyth High School Coach Baldwin was at Newton High school for 3 years.

Education:
- B.S.- University of Georgia; Athens, Georgia
- Master's degree- Georgia Southern University;Statesboro, Georgia
October 2020
Jake Drehoff- Assistant Coach

Basketball- Boy's

Scott Givens- Head Coach
Scott Givens

770-781-2264 ext.100823

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

This will be Coach Givens 21st year in education. This will be the start of his 8th year at South Forsyth High School. Coach will be starting his 6th year as the Head Boys Basketball coach. Givens was the Assistant Boys Basketball coach for the two years prior. Coach Givens will be taking over the responsibilities for the Boys Golf team and this will be his first year to coach high school golf.

Education:
- B.S. from Tennessee Technological University, 2000; Cookeville, Tennessee
- M.S. from National University, 2009; LaJolla, California
Family:

Coach Given and his wife, Jenny Givens have been married 11 years and have two children; Maddie who is 10 years old, and James who is 8 years old.

October 2020
Chris Reonas - Varsity Assistant
Chris Reonas

Varsity Basketball Assistant

770-781-2264 ext.101640
Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Chris Reonas has been teaching for 14 years, this is his 5th year at South Forsyth High School. Reonas teaches Social Studies and this year will be the Assistant Boys Basketball Coach. Coach Reonas has been coaching basketball for 11 years, baseball for 5 years, 2 years softball, and 1 year each Golf and Girls's Lacrosse.
- Region Championship as an Assistant in Basketball in 2007-2008 at Dacula High School
- Region Championship as an Assistant in Baseball in 2014 at Mountain View High School
Education:
- B.A. in History-Georgia College and State University; Milledgeville, Georgia
- M.A. in Teaching-Valdosta State; Valdosta, Georgia
Family:

Coach Reonas and his wife, Laura have a son Brady and expecting their 2nd child in April

October 2020
Eric Siuta- Junior Varsity Coach

Basketball- Girl's

Keith Gravitt- Head Basketball Coach
Keith Gravitt

Head Basketball Coach

770-781-2264 ext. 100610

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Cumming, Georgia native Keith Gravitt has served as the Director of Athletics at South Forsyth High School since August 2004. He has previously coached basketball, soccer, baseball, and volleyball at various times while at North Forsyth High School (1995-1996) and South Forsyth High School (1996-Present). In addition, he heads the Girls Basketball Program for the Lady War Eagles, a position he has held since 2003.

Gravitt has been with the Forsyth County School System for 25 years and began his education career in the Social Studies classroom, teaching World Geography and United States History. When the position of Automotive Collision Repair opened at South Forsyth High School, he applied considering this vocation had been part of Gravitt’s life for over 30 year and was hired. Since arriving at SFHS, he has been part of the CTAE Department, Social Studies department, and Leadership Team.

Coach Gravitt feels blessed to work with outstanding coaches that lead 25 Varsity Sports Programs at South Forsyth High School.
- Gravitt has been fortunate to coach 16 players that have competed at the collegiate level.
- Seven teams Coach Gravitt has coached have reached the GHSA State Tournament, with a Final Four appearance.
His greatest satisfaction comes from the relationships that have been built with the community, staff members, and most importantly student-athletes.

Education:
- University of North Georgia-1991; Dahlonega,Georgia
Family:

Coach Gravitt is married to Sarah Montgomery Gravitt, a former educator and coach. They have two girls, ages 9 and 5, who always keep them on their toes!

October 2020
Kassie Smith- Assistant Coach
Kassie Smith

Assistant Basketball Coach

770-781-2264 ext. 100133

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Kassie Smith went to South Forsyth as a freshman and graduated from West Forsyth. Coach Smith had Mrs. Wilson as a middle school science student and have known Coach Gravitt as long as she can remember. South is home to Kassie!
Coach Smith currently teach AP Calculus AB/BC and AP Calculus BC.
Kassie loves traveling and experiencing other cultures.She taught in Tanzania and Colombia before coming back home.

Coach Smith started coaching basketball and lacrosse at SFHS in 2014. This year Coach Smith is excited to be the head flag football coach, the first year that flag is a GHSA sanctioned varsity sport. Kassie is excited to see how the sport continues to grow! Coach Smith is the head JV Basketball Coach and Assistant Varsity Basketball Coach.

Coach Smith invites all of you to:
Come watch our amazing athletes play… we would love to see you in the stands!

Education:
- Graduated from University of Georgia (goooo dawgs!) studied Mathematics Education; Athens,Georgia
Go War Eagles!! South Strong!

October 2020
Ally Welch- Assistant Coach
Ally Welch

Assistant Basketball Coach

770-475-6670 ext.760344

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

South Forsyth Alum, Ally Welch, graduated from South in 2015. Following Welch’s College career, she found herself back at her alma mater in the Fall of 2019. She accepted a position working in the Special Education Department. During her first year back at South she coached Freshman Volleyball and was an Assistant JV and Varsity Basketball Coach.

This school year(2020-2021) Welch is no longer working at the High School but found a home at Midway Elementary School where she teaches in an ACA classroom. She still coaches JV and Varsity Basketball at South and has enjoyed her time working under her old Varsity Coach, Keith Gravitt and staying involved in the basketball world following her playing career.
- Coach Welch was very successful during her time at Mercer;Welch's team managed to collect four conference championships, won two SoCon Tournament Championships in Welch’s Junior and Senior Seasons. These tournament championships took them to the NCAA tournament. These were the first time Mercer went to the NCAA tournament since it became a Division 1 program.
Education:
- B.S.in Education- Mercer University;Macon, Georgia
October 2020

Cheer- Basketball

Ashley Fireall- Head Coach
Ashley Fireall

770-781-2264 ext. 101141

Teaching /Coaching Experience:

Coach Ashley Fireall has been teaching for 8 years, 7 of the years have been at South Forsyth High School. Coach Fireall has been Basketball Cheerleading coach for 5 years.

Education:
- Mercer University M.A.T. English Education; Atlanta, Georgia
- The University of Georgia A.B English; Athens ,Georgia
October 2020
Courtney Johnson- Assistant Coach
Courtney Johnson

770-781-2264 ext. 100630

Teaching/Coaching:

This is Coach Courtney Johnson 8th year in education. Coach is in her 3rd year of being a Professional School Counselor at South Forsyth High School. Previously Coach Johnson taught Language Arts for 6 years at Dacula Middle Schools in Gwinnett County.

Coach Johnson has been the Varisty Basketball Cheerleading Assistant Coach for 3 years and the Junior Varsity Volleyball Assistant Coach for the past 2 years .

Go War Eagles!

Education:
- B.S. in Middle School Education -The University of Georgia; Athens, Georgia
- Master’s degree in School Counseling- Mercer University;Atlanta, Georgia
October 2020

Cheer- Competition

Shayla Brawner- Head Competition Cheer Coach
Shayla Brawner

770-781-2264 ext. 100196

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Now in her twelfth season at the helm of the Competition Cheerleading Program, Shayla Brawner serves as the Head Competition Cheerleading Coach and Associate Athletic Director at South Forsyth High School. Previous coaching roles and responsibilities have included SFHS Cheerleading Coordinator (2009-2019), Assistant Competition Cheerleading Coach (2008), Head Varsity Football Sideline Cheerleading Coach (2009-2015, 2018), and Head Varsity Basketball Sideline Cheerleading Coach (2008-2013).

During her tenure with the program, the team has earned one State Championship (2017), four State Runner-Up Titles (2015, 2016, 2018, 2019), three Sectional Championships (2014, 2017, 2018), four Region Championships (2013, 2015, 2016, 2019), and two Region Runner-Up titles (2009, 2014). The program has had eleven athletes named to the All-State team, with two winning the title of Cheerleader of the Year. In addition, the 2013 team was named Team of the Year by the Georgia Cheerleading Coaches Association. Furthermore, numerous athletes have continued their cheerleading career at the collegiate level at The University of Georgia, University of South Carolina, Baylor University, University of Mississippi, Valdosta State University, and Georgia Southern University.

She currently serves as the President of the Georgia Cheerleading Coaches Association and has served the organization in numerous capacities including 1st Vice President/Treasurer, 2nd Vice President/Secretary, Region Representative, Website developer, Social Media Chair, Team of the Year Coordinator, and Coach of the Year Coordinator. Coach Brawner was named the Georgia Cheerleading Coaches Association Coach of the Year in 2017. She also earned top honors from the National Federation of High School Coaches for 2017-2018 as the Girls’ Spirit Coach of the Year. However, the most noteworthy accomplishments are the countless lifelong relationships which she has built with her student-athletes, along with their families. Coach Brawner feels blessed to be part of the incredible Competition Cheerleading legacy at South Forsyth High School. The success of the program was established upon its inception as excellence was expected by former coaches and athletes as evidenced by the six State Championships previously won (1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003).

Brawner has been with the Forsyth County School System for 13 years and began her career as a Biology teacher. She currently serves as the instructor for the Teaching as a Profession pathway which includes three courses: Examining the Teaching Profession, Contemporary Issues in Education, and Teaching as a Profession Practicum. She serves as the FCCLA co-advisor as well. Other courses she has taught include Honors Biology, Environmental Science, Physical Science, High School Transition, Directed Study, Peer Facilitation and APEX. Since arriving at SFHS, she has been part of the CTAE Department, Science Department, and Athletic Department.

Education:
- B.S. in Biology- University of North Georgia (2007); Dahlonega, Georgia
- Master's degree in Science Education-University of Georgia (2009); Athens, Georgia
- Specialist degree in Tacher Leadership/Curriculum and Instruction- Valdosta State University (2013);Valdosta, Georgia
- Tier 1 Leadership Certificate-University of North Georgia (2020); Dahlonega, Georgia
Family:

Coach Brawner resides in Cumming, Georgia with her husband of ten years, Taylor Brawner, an SFHS Alumni and graduate of Samford University. They have three energetic children and enjoy spending time outdoors together as a family, traveling to Disney, and cheering for the South Forsyth War Eagles and Georgia Bulldogs!

October 2020
Lyndsey Phelps- Assistant Competition Cheer Coach
Kendall Robinson- JV Competition Cheer Coach
Kendall Robinson

JV Competition Cheer Coach

770-781-2264 ext.101426

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Kendall Robinson is in her 8th year of teaching in the Math department at South Forsyth High School. Robinson has coached; basketball cheer, 2nd year as JV Football sideline cheer, is in her 1st year as JV Competition Cheer coach and 2nd year as the Assistant Girls Golf coach.

Education:
- Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Mathematics Education from -University of North Georgia; Dahlonega, Georgia
- Master of Arts in Teaching -Piedmont College;Demorest,Georgia
October 2020

Cheer-Football

Nicole McClinton- Head Coach
Nicole Barth

770-781-2264 ext. 101148

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Nicole McClinton is in her 6^th year at South Forsyth High School and her 8^th year in education.

Coach McClinton has been involved with the athletics program at South since she began working here, coaching JV Volleyball and Girls Golf her very first year. This is her 6^th year coaching Girls Golf and the 2^nd as the Head Coach. Additionally, this is her 3^rd year as the Head Coach for Varsity Sideline Cheerleading. Coach McClinton sees the importance of not only coaching the whole athlete, but also fostering their academic career as well, continuing to build relationships inside and outside of the classroom and striving to mold her student-athletes into the future leaders of our community.

Education:
- Bachelor’s of Arts in History Education from North Georgia College and State University; Dahlonega, Georgia
- Masters and Specialist degrees from Piedmont College; Demorest, Georgia
Family:

Congratulations to newlyweds, Coach McClinton and her husband, Jacob.

October 2020
Leah McGray- Assistant Coach
Leah McGray

770-781-2264 ext. 101427

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Leah McGray has been teaching for 8 years; 5 years at South Forsyth High School teaching Social Studies, and 3 years teaching in Kentucky.

This is Coach McGray's 2nd year as Varsity Football Sideline Cheer, Assistant Coach. Coach was Head Cheer Coach for 3 years in Kentucky.

Coach McGray feels her most important accomplishment in coaching has been watching her team grow. There isn’t one specific event but rather a multitude of them such as the look on an athlete’s face when she lands her full, or when they win region and make it to state, the experiences on the sidelines as they display school spirit are what make her accomplishments, the end goal is to watch these kids become better athletically and to teach them how to be role models.

Education:
- Bachelor of Arts in History- Georgetown College; Georgetown, Kentucky
- Master of Arts in Teaching - University of the Cumberlands; Williamsburg, Kentucky
- Master of Arts in History - Western Kentucky University; Bowling Green, Kentucky
October 2020
Kendall Robinson- JV Football Cheer Coach
Kendall Robinson

JV Football Cheer Coach

770-781-2264 ext. 101426

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Kendall Robinson is in her 8th year of teaching in the Math department at South Forsyth High School. Robinson has coached; basketball cheer, 2nd year as JV Football sideline cheer, is in her 1st year as JV Competition Cheer coach and 2nd year as the Assistant Girls Golf coach.

Education:
- Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Mathematics Education from -University of North Georgia; Dahlonega, Georgia
- Master of Arts in Teaching -Piedmont College;Demorest,Georgia
October 2020

Cross Country

Christine Shaw- Head Coach
Christine Shaw

770-781-2264 ext. 101414

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Christine Shaw came to South Forsyth from Ashley Ridge High School in the fall of 2015 from Summerville, SC . Shaw taught mathematics, coached Cross Country and Track & Field. She also was a co-sponsor of their school's FCA Chapter.

Coach Shaw continues to teach mathematics and joined the coaching staff as Assistant Cross-Country coach in 2015 and Head Girls Track Coach,spring of 2016. In 2019 the Athletic Department was excited to announce that Shaw would also become the Head Cross Country coach as well as continuing as Head Girls Track coach.
- 2015 seasons Coach Shaw was voted Men Cross Country Region Coach of the Year and Women’s Track Region Coach of the Year.
- South Forsyth Girls Track Team won back-to-back Region Championships in 2017 and 2018.
Shaw enjoys her students and South Forsyth High School since coming on staff, but also continues pursuing her passion of coaching runners.

Education:
- Bachelor’s Degree- Wingate University; North Carolina.
- Please congratulate her and wish her good luck when seeing her in the halls. She takes the helm of two teams that have won two State Championships and multiple State Runner-ups the last three seasons.
Family:

Christine currently resides in Cumming with her husband Chris Shaw and stepdaughter Charlee.

October 2020
Desta Long- Assistant Coach
Nick Wansley- Assistant Coach
Nick Wansley

Assistant Coach

770-781-2264 ext. 100363

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Nick Wansley is in his 10th year at South Forsyth High School in the Science department. Currently teacing AP and IB Physics.Coach Wansley has been coaching Track and Field for 10 years and Cross Country for 9.

Education:
- B.S.- University of Georgia;Athens, Georgia
- Doctorate-Kennesaw State University;Kennesaw, Georgia
October 2020
Van Munn- Assistant Coach

Dance

Carla Yonk- Head Coach

Carla Yonk

770-781-2264 ext. 100156

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Carla Yonk is in her second year as the War Eagle Dance Team sponsor. Administratively, she supports the coaching role of talented community coaches. Mrs. Yonk is in her 10^th year of teaching Business Education after a career in Accounting & Finance.

She has a great appreciation of dance having watched the positive impact it has on her daughters since they started dancing at the age of three. The sanctioning of Dance as a competitive sport by GHSA elevates dance to a new level allowing dance teams the opportunity to earn recognition for their talents.

October 2020
Breenan Byrd- Assistant Coach
Sarah Darby- Assistant Coach

eSports

Terry Wickman- Head Coach
Terry Wickman

770-781-2264 ext. 101637

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Wickman was a Structural engineer for 22+ years before becoming a teacher.. Coach Wickman has been teaching Math and coaching at South Forsyth High School for 5 years. Coach is currently the Head Coach for eSports; previously 2 years Head Boys Lacrosse, 1 year 9th grade Boys Lacrosse and 1 year Assistant Boys Lacrosse.

Education:
- BS Civil Engineering Technology (1997)- Southern Polytechnic State University; Marietta, Georgia
- Masters of Arts in Teaching (2015)- University of North Georgia; Dahlonega, Georgia
Family:

Coach Wickman has been married for 2 years to his wife Jodi. They have 5 kids ranging in ages from 13-21. Our son Ethan is a Junior at SFHS.

October 2020

Flag Football

Kassie Smith- Head Coach
Kassie Smith

770-781-2264 ext.100133

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Kassie Smith went to South Forsyth as a freshman and graduated from West Forsyth. Coach had Mrs. Wilson as a middle school science student and have known Coach Gravitt as long as she can remember. South is home to Kassie!
Coach Smith currently teach AP Calculus AB/BC and AP Calculus BC.
Kassie loves traveling and experiencing other cultures.She taught in Tanzania and Colombia before coming back home.

Coach Smith started coaching basketball and lacrosse at SFHS in 2014. This year Coach Smith is excited to be the head flag football coach, the first year that flag is a GHSA sanctioned varsity sport. Kassie is excited to see how the sport continues to grow! Coach Smith is the head JV Basketball Coach and Assistant Varsity Basketball Coach.

Coach Smith invites all of you to:
Come watch our amazing athletes play… we would love to see you in the stands!

Education:
- Graduated from University of Georgia (goooo dawgs!) studied Mathematics Education; Athens,Georgia
Go War Eagles!! South Strong!

October 2020
Leanne Brooks-Assistant Coach
Leanne Brooks

Assistant Coach

770-781-2264 ext. 101325

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Leanne Brooks is an South Forsyth alumni from the class of 2010. After graduation, she went on to play softball at Young Harris College. This past year, Coach Brooks completed her fifth year as a Special Education Mathematics teacher at South Forsyth High School, where she has been for the entirety of her teaching career.

Coach Brooks has been a part of the coaching staff at SFHS since 2014.An assistant softball coach for five years, assistant lacrosse coach for two years, assistant track and field coach for two years, and an assistant flag football coach for one year. This is Coach Brooks second year as head coach for the softball program.

South Forsyth High School:
- 2020 Region 6AAAAAAA Softball Champions
- 2019 2nd Round of State Softball Playoffs
- 2019 Co-Region Softball Coach of the Year
Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Education- Young Harris College; Young Harris, Georgia
October 2020
Dustin Morris- Assistant Coach

Football

Jeff Arnette- Head Coach
Jeff Arnette

770-781-2264 ext. 100910

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

This is Coach Arnette's 30th year of coaching and 11th year at South Forsyth High School. Previously Coach Arnette was Head Football Coach at White County,Tennessee; Oconee County, Georgia; and Elbert County, Georgia. Coach also served as an Assistant Coach at Smith County HS,Tennessee; Cedar Shoals HS, Georgia; and the Defensive Cooridnator at Valdosta HS, Georgia.

South Forsyth High School:
- 2017 Region 5- AAAAAAA Champions
- 2016 Region 5- AAAAAAA Runners Up
- 2015 Region 6- AAAAAA Champions with an Elite 8 appearance
- playoff appearances in: 2010,2014,2015,2016,2017,2018,2019
Education:
- Tennessee Technological University; Cookeville Tennessee
- Rockwood High School, Tennessee
Family:

Coach Arnette and his wife of 19 years, Page, have a daughter Kennedy , 16yrs old and Jackson who is 12 yrs old.

October 2020
Troy Morris- Assistant Head Coach
Troy Morris

Assistant Head Coach

770-781-2264 ext. 100406

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Troy Morris is in his 22nd year in education and coaching.Morris has taught multiple classes including Math,APEX and weight traning. This is Coach's 11th year at South Forsyth High School. Morris has coached different positions through out his Football coaching career; Offensive Coordinator, Quarterbacks and currently Assistant Head Coach. Prior to becoming a South Forsyth War Eagle, he was the Head Football Coach at Social Circle High School.

Education:
- Undergraduate Degree in Mathematics - Bethel College;North Newton, Kansas
- Masters in Education- University of Georgia; Athens, Georgia
- Specialist Degree in Leadership -Lincoln Memorial University; Harrogate, Tennessee
Family:

Coach Morris is married to Jeanette and they have 4 children. Their 2 oldest graduated from South Forsyth High School, Cal (21) and Drew (19); they have 2 that are currently at South Forsyth, Gavin is a Junior and Clara is a Sophomore.

October 2020
Chris Aycock- Special Teams Coordinator-Tight Ends-Outside Llinebackers
Chris Aycock

Special Teams Coordinator

770-781-2264 ext. 100366

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Chris Aycock is in his 25th year in Education as a teacher and a coach. This is Aycocks 7th year at South Forsyth High School as an Economics and Government teacher. Prior to South Forsyth High School Aycock taught and coached at; Washington County High School,Forsyth Central High School and Peachtree Ridge High School.

Coach Aycock has been a part of two undefeated state championship teams at Washington County High School in 1996 and 1997. Winners of 30 straight games from 1996-1997.

Education:
- BS History and Secondary Education- Georgia College and State University; Milledgeville, Georgia
- M.Ed Educational Administration- Georgia College and State University;Milledgeville, Georgia
- Ed.S Educational Administration- Georgia College and Sate University; Milledgeville, Georgia
Family:

Coach Aycock is married to Jessica Coleman Aycock graduate of Shiloh High School ’93 and also teacher at South Forsyth High School. Two Children, Cole (20) (2018 graduate of South Forsyth High School) and Cade (14) (Freshman at South Forsyth High School).
Nick Belyew- Receivers
Austin Hamilton- Assistant Offensive Line
Austin Hamilton

770-781-2264 ext. 100152

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Hamilton began as a Special Education Paraprofessional at South Forsyth High School during the 2019-2020 year. This is Coach's first year as a Special Education Teacher. Coach Hamilton joined the coaching staff 2019 as the Head Boys Track and Field Coach. Coach is currently in his first year as an assistant football coach.

Education:
- B.S. in Psychology from University of West Georgia, Carrollton, Georgia. Coach Hamilton played football while attending college.
Family:

Coach Hamilton and his wife, Emily are newlyweds!

October 2020
Heath Hover- Head JV Coach- Run Game Coordinator-Offensive Line
Heath Hover

770-781-2264 ext. 100408

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Hover has been teaching for 11 years in education. This is his 10^th year teaching at South Forsyth High School. Coach Hover coached track for 2 years, baseball for 3 years, and is currently in his 11^th year coaching football. Coach Hover has served as the Linebackers coach for 3 years, Wide Receivers coach for 6 years, Special Teams Coordinator for 1 year, and is currently the Offensive Line coach/Run-Game coordinator. He is also going into his 2^nd year as the JV Head Football Coach.

Coach Hover was a 4 year letterman in Football while attending Gardner-Webb University.

Education:
- B.S. in Physical Education and Health- Gardner-Webb University; Boling Springs, North Carolina
- Masters Degree in Kinesiology- Georgia Southern University; Statesboro, Georgia
Family:

Coach Hover has been married to his wife, Ashley, for 2 years. They have a son named Brooks.
Thomas McCarter-Linebackers
Thomas McCarter

770-781-2264 ext. 100465

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Thomas McCarter started his teaching and coaching career at South Forsyth High School. Coach is in his 2nd year teaching Special Education. This is also McCarter's 2nd year as the Football- Inside Linebackers Coach.

Education:
- Education: B.S. Exercise Science – Georgia College & State University; Milledgeville, Georgia
Family:

Coach McCarter is newly married to Elizabeth Evans McCarter. They have two dogs, Ruby & Ted

October 2020
Joe Outlaw- Safeties
Joe Outlaw

Safeties Coach

770-781-2264 ext.101133

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Joe Outlaw is an South Forsyth High School Alumni, 2011. Coach returned to his Alma Mater to start his teaching/coaching career. Outlaw is in his 6th year of teaching in the Special Education classes.

Coach Outlaw has played different Varsity football coaching roles; Safeties -3 years, Tight Ends-2 years, and Corners for 1. Outlaw was also head Freshman Football coach for 2 years.

Education:
- Bachelor’s in Special Education - Georgia College and State University (2015); Milledgeville,Georgia
- Master’s in Kinesiology with a Coaching Emphasis- Georgia Southern University (2020); Statesboro, Georgia
Family:

Coach Outlaw married his high school sweetheart, Tori and have a daughter, Tatum.
Sam Outlaw- Running Backs
Sam Outlaw

Running Back Coach

770-781-2264 ext. 101133

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Sam Outlaw is a SFHS student and player alumni (2016). This is Coach Outlaw's first year at South Forsyth High School teaching special education and Football Running Back coach. Coach Outlaw played football all 4 years at SFHS as well as 4 years while attending Kennesaw State.

Education:
- B.S.- Health and Physical Education- Kennesaw State University;Kennesaw , Georgia
October 2020
Luke Wagner- Freshman Football Head Coach- Varsity Cornerbacks
Luke Wagner

Freshman Head Football Coach

Varsity Football Cornerbacks

770-781-2264 ext.824

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Luke Wagner is in his 4th year of teaching and coaching, all 4 years at South Forsyth High School. Coach teaches Health and Sports Medicine.

Coach Wagner has coached Varsity Football Tight Ends, Defensive Line and is currently coaching Cornerbacks. Wagner is also the Head Freshman Football Coach. This is also Coach Wagner's 3rd year as JV Boys Head Soccer Coach.
- Accomplishments in Football: State Championship as a player with Chattahoochee HS in 2011
Education:
- Masters in The Arts of Teaching: PE/Kinesiology; Georgia College and State University, Milledgeville, Georgia
- Bachelors in Business Management; Georgia College and State University, Milledgeville, Georgia
Ross Walker- Defensive Coordinator
Ross Walker

Defensive Coordinator

770-781-2264 ext 100644

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Ross Walker has been in education for 16 years. 7 years as a Social Studies and football coach at South Forsyth High School and 9 years at Forsyth Central.

Education:
- M.S. Ed. Walden University
- B.S. Ed. University of Georgia
Family:

Coach Walker and his wife Michelle have two sons Nathan and Jack

Golf- Boy's

Scott Givens- Head Coach
Scott Givens

770-781-2264 ext. 100823

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

This will be Coach Givens 21st year in education. This will be the start of his 8th year at South Forsyth High School. Coach will be starting his 6th year as the Head Boys Basketball coach. Givens was the Assistant Boys Basketball coach for the two years prior. Coach Givens will be taking over the responsibilities for the Boys Golf team and this will be his first year to coach high school golf.

Education:
- B.S. from Tennessee Technological University, 2000; Cookeville, Tennessee
- M.S. from National University, 2009; LaJolla, California
Family:

Coach Given and his wife, Jenny Givens have been married 11 years and have two children; Maddie who is 10 years old, and James who is 8 years old.

October 2020

Golf- Girl's

Nicole McClinton- Head Coach
Nicole Barth

770-781-2264 ext. 101148

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Nicole McClinton is in her 6^th year at South Forsyth High School and her 8^th year in education.

Coach McClinton has been involved with the athletics program at South since she began working here, coaching JV Volleyball and Girls Golf her very first year. This is her 6^th year coaching Girls Golf and the 2^nd as the Head Coach. Additionally, this is her 3^rd year as the Head Coach for Varsity Sideline Cheerleading. Coach McClinton sees the importance of not only coaching the whole athlete, but also fostering their academic career as well, continuing to build relationships inside and outside of the classroom and striving to mold her student-athletes into the future leaders of our community.

Education:
- Bachelor’s of Arts in History Education from North Georgia College and State University; Dahlonega, Georgia
- Masters and Specialist degrees from Piedmont College; Demorest, Georgia
Family:

Congratulations to newlyweds, Coach McClinton and her husband, Jacob.

October 2020
Kendall Robinson- Assistant Girl's Golf Coach
Kendall Robinson

Assistant Gilr's Golf Coach

770-781-2264 ext. 101426

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Kendall Robinson is in her 8th year of teaching in the Math department at South Forsyth High School. Robinson has coached; basketball cheer, 2nd year as JV Football sideline cheer, is in her 1st year as JV Competition Cheer coach and 2nd year as the Assistant Girls Golf coach.

Education:
- Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Mathematics Education from -University of North Georgia; Dahlonega, Georgia
- Master of Arts in Teaching -Piedmont College;Demorest,Georgia
October 2020

Gymnastics

Christine Naffky- Head Coach
Christine Naffky

770-781-2264 ext.101211

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Originally from Buffalo, NY; Coach Naffky was a competitive gymnast for Buffalo Turners and coach since the age of 14 where she coached gymnasts from age three to competitive levels, specializing in pre-team and skill building. Coach Naffky then continued to coach through college and beyond both in Dunkirk, NY and Boca Raton, Florida.

Coach Naffky then moved to South Florida and taught 8^th grade math (Algebra 1, Geometry Honors included) at Eagles Landing Middle School. While in South Florida, she earned her Master’s in Teaching and Learning from Nova Southeastern University and continued to coach at a local gym. There she coached both pre-team level girls and the boy’s competitive team.

Relocating to Georgia, Coach Naffky taught for 6 years at Riverwatch Middle School, teaching 8^th grade math and Accelerated Math 1. While at Riverwatch, Coach Naffky was asked to coach the Lambert Varsity Gymnastics team there beginning season to which they placed, second, first and third in the state their first three years running. Now at South Forsyth High School for her 6^th year, Chris Naffky is the happiest she has ever been, coaching and teaching at a high school as Head Coach for the South Varsity Gymnastics team and Geometry Honors and Algebra 1 teacher.

Education:
- State University of New York at Fredonia with a Bachelors in Math Secondary Education; Fredonia, New York
- Master’s in Teaching and Learning from Nova Southeastern University; Davie Florida
Family:

Coach Naffky and her husband Christopher have two children ,Emma and Aiden.

October 2020
Rachel Satori- Assistant Coach

Lacrosse- Men's

Steve Hurlbut- Head Coach
Steve Hurlbut

770-781-2264 ext. 100369

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Hurlbut is from Jensen Beach, Florida where he attended Martin County High School. Coach Hurlbut moved to Georgia after marrying his high school sweetheart. This is his 19^th year teaching and coaching high school students.

Coach Hurlbut began teaching and coaching football at Gateway High School (Kissimmee, FL). He then moved back to Gainesville, FL to teach and coach football at Gainesville High School (FL). After moving to Georgia in 2004, Coach taught for one year at South Cobb High School, where he coached football and lacrosse. Coach Hurlbut began teaching and coaching at South Forsyth High School in 2005 and is currently in his 16^th year. Coach stepped down from football after several years. He continued as an assistant coach for the Boys Lacrosse program and became the Head Coach in the Fall of 2018.

Education:
- University of Florida; Gainesville, Florida
- Degree in Coaching and Pedagogy from Valdosta State University; Valdosta, Georgia
- Masters in Coaching and Kinesiology from Georgia Southern Specialist; Statesboro, Georgia
Family:

Coach Hurlbut and his wife Mary have two children – Abigail and Andrew.

October 2020

Lacrosse- Girl's

Soccer- Boy's

Chere' Thomas- Varsity Boys Head Soccer Coach
Chere' Thomas

Varsity Boys Head Soccer Coach

770-781-2264 ext. 100524

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Chere' Thomas has been teaching Physical Education and Coaching at South Forsyth High School for 18 years. This will be Coach Thomas' third year as the head Varsity Boys Soccer Coach. Prior to taking on this role Thomas was the Assistant Varsity Boys and Varsity Girls Soccer coach since 2008.

Varsity Boys Soccer:
- 2nd Round State Playoffs
- State Runner-up 2018
- Region Champs 2017, 2018
Varsity Girls
- State Runner-up 2008,
- Final Four 2008, 2013, 2017
- Region Champs 2008
Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and Health- University of North Georgia; Dahlonega,Georgia
Family:

Coach Thomas has been married to her high school sweetheart, Johnny Thomas, for 25 years. They have 3 beautiful daughters Paige (23), Faith (20) and Hope (18). They have spent most of their time in a sports arena, on a field watching or coaching their girls. If they have any spare time, they enjoy traveling (mostly to the beach), spending time outside and watching UGA football.
David Owen- Assistant Coach
Luke Wagner- JV Head Boys Soccer Coach
Luke Wagner

JV Head Boys Soccer Coach

770-781-2264 ext. 100824

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Luke Wagner is in his 4th year of teaching and coaching, all 4 years at South Forsyth High School. Coach teaches Health and Sports Medicine.

Coach Wagner has coached Varsity Football Tight Ends, Defensive Line and is currently coaching Cornerbacks. Wagner is also the Head Freshman Football Coach. This is also Coach Wagner's 3rd year as JV Boys Head Soccer Coach.
- Accomplishments in Football: State Championship as a player with Chattahoochee HS in 2011
Education:
- Masters in The Arts of Teaching: PE/Kinesiology; Georgia College and State University, Milledgeville, Georgia
- Bachelors in Business Management; Georgia College and State University, Milledgeville, Georgia

Soccer- Girl's

Erik Moore- Head Coach
Erik Moore

770-781-2264 ext. 100370

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Erik Moore has 23 years in education at various high schools from North Carolina and Georgia. This is Coach Moore's 4^th year at South Forsyth High School. Coach Moore has been coaching, on and off, for close to 30 years. In that time, he has been a goalkeeper trainer, junior varsity and assistant varsity coach, as well as varsity coach for both men’s and women’s teams respectfully. He has coaching experience at the club and high school levels and has a national goalkeeping certification. Moore has been fortunate to be on the coaching staff for a state championship team at Parkview High School and has been on two staffs that made it to the state finals.

Education:
- BA - Auburn University Psychology; Auburn, Alabama
- MA Special Education - Appalachian State; Boone, North Carolina
- Specialist Curriculum- Piedmont College and Instruction;Demorest, Georgia
October 2020
Colleen Tereniak- JV Head Coach
Colleen Tereniak

JV Head Coach

770-888-1222 ext. 170401

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Colleen Tereniak is so excited to be the JV Girls Soccer head coach. Coach Tereniak is back to where it all started! Tereniak graduated from South Forsyth in 2011 where she played 4 years of soccer, both JV and Varsity under Coach Tom Braun and Coach Chere Thomas. Coach Tereniak also played club soccer at UFA for 8 years in Athena A and B. After high school, she played 1 year of club soccer at Georgia Southern University. After teaching second grade for three years in Dekalb County, Tereniak made her way back to Forsyth County Schools in 2017 where she became a fourth grade teacher at Daves Creek Elementary School. During the 2018-2019 school year, Tereniak became the head coach for the JV girls soccer team. After taking a year off of coaching, she is back! Coach Tereniak is so excited to start the soccer journey this winter/spring. Quote from Coach Tereniak- "With team work, hard work, and positive attitude anything is possible! We are going to have a fabulous season and I cannot wait to work with you!"

Education:
- B.S- Early Childhood Education- Georgia Southern University;Statesboro, Georgia
October 2020

Softball

Leanne Brooks- Head Coach
Leanne Brooks

770-781-2264 ext. 101325

Leanne Brooks is an South Forsyth alumni from the class of 2010. After graduation, she went on to play softball at Young Harris College. This past year, Coach Brooks completed her fifth year as a Special Education Mathematics teacher at South Forsyth High School, where she has been for the entirety of her teaching career.

Coach Brooks has been a part of the coaching staff at SFHS since 2014.An assistant softball coach for five years, assistant lacrosse coach for two years, assistant track and field coach for two years, and an assistant flag football coach for one year. This is Coach Brooks second year as head coach for the softball program. During her first year as head coach, she led the team to the Sweet 16 and received Co-Region Coach of the Year.

South Forsyth High School:
- 2020 Region 6AAAAAAA Champions
- 2019 2nd Round of State Softball Playoffs
- 2019 Co-Region Coach of the Year
Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Education- Young Harris College; Young Harris, Georgia
October 2020
Elizabeth Pearson- Head JV Coach
Elizabeth Pearson

Head JV Coach

770-781-2264 ext. 101169

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Pearson has been a teacher at South Forsyth High School in the Special Education Department for the past 2 years. Previously Coach was a paraprofessional at Cambridge High School, Georgia. Coach Pearson has coached for a total of 8 years. South Forsyth High School for the past 2 years. Prior to South Forsyth High School; Milton High School,West Forsyth High School, and Cambridge High School.

Coach Pearson has also coached for several travel fast pitch teams including; Atlanta Vipers, East Cobb Bullets,and Atlanta Premier.

Coach Pearson looks at coaching and teaching as a way of repaying all the wonderful coaches and teachers that she had throughtout her life.

Education:
- B.S. from Presbyterian College (Softball Scholarship) - Clinton,South Carolina
October 2020
Adam Baldwin- Assistant Coach
Adam Baldwin

Assistant Coach

770-781-2264 ext. 100465

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Adam Baldwin is in his 10th year of teaching/coaching.Baldwin has been at South Forsyth High School for 7 years teaching in the Special Education department as well as coaching baseball and softball. Prior to coming to South Forsyth High School Coach Baldwin was at Newton High school for 3 years.

Education:
- B.S.- University of Georgia; Athens, Georgia
- Master's degree- Georgia Southern University;Statesboro, Georgia
October 2020
Dan Weber- Assistant Coach
Dan Weber

770-781-2264 ext. 101323

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Dan Weber has been teaching for 11 years and for the last six years at South Forsyth High School as an AP Human Geography teacher. Before coming to South Weber was at Riverwatch Middle School where he coached Football and Golf. Since coming to South Coach Weber has Coached Baseball for 4 years and for the last two years has been the Assistant Coach for the Lady War Eagles Softball team. Coach Weber has also coached for Service Baseball as a Head Coach and Assistant Coach for the last 4 years. Education:
- East Tennessee State- Major in Criminal Justice and Political Science; Johnson City, Tennessee
- University of North Georgia-Certificate in Education; Dahlonega, Georgia
October 2020

Swim & Dive

Katharine Bergdahl- Head Coach
Katharine Bergdahl

770-781-2264 ext. 100490

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Kate Bergdahl has been teaching and coaching for 20 years. Through out the 20 years she taught in both public & private schools. Bergdahl taught at South Forsyth High School for 3 years before the Bergdahl's moved over seas. During her time overseas Coach continued to be a part of her swim passion as she assisted the International School swim team with swim technique and judging swim meets. After the return to the states in 2014, Coach Bergdahl returned to South Forsyth High School as a Science Teacher and the Head Coach for their neighborhood team. Coach Bergdahl assumed her current role as Head Swim Coach in 2016.

Coach Bergdahl has been a lifelong swimmer beginning with summer league swim teams straight through her collegiate years. Bergdahl competed at the State and Junior Olympic level. Kate was recruited to join an Olympic swim team training program for year around training.That was a significant milestone in her life and young career in swimming,however Kate decided to pursue the academic role. Kate swam in college where she qualified and competed at Nationals in several events.

Coach Bergdahl's speciality is swim technique and having fun while helping swimmers to improve.

Education:
- B.S.- Biology (concentration in the medical field)-Hillsdale College; Hillsdale, Michigan
- B.S.-Science -Eastern Michigan University ;Ypsilanti, Michigan
- Certified Teacher & Coach
Family:

Coach Bergdahl is married to Dan Bergdahl. They have 3 children; Aiden,who attends University of North Georgia., Keelyn (12th grade) and Amelia (10th grade) both attend and are swimmers at South Forsyth High Quote from Coach Bergdahl in regards to her family "I absolutley adore these people!!!".

October 2020
Taylor Bush- Assistant Coach

Tennis- Boy's

Jason Steele- Head Coach
Jason Steele

770-781-2264 ext. 101222

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Jason Steele has been teaching chemistry and physics for 14 years,7 of those years at South Forsyth High School. Steele has been a High School Tennis Coach for 14+ years. 7th year coaching tennis at South Forsyth High School; 6th year as Varsity Boys Coach.
- 2018 Georgia Athletic Coaches Association- State Coach of the Year
Coach Steele is a lifelong Georgia tennis player-playing competitive tennis for 30+ years; a top ranked GA-state and southern regional junior, as an undergrad. played on the UGA Practice Team (Club Team), and as a graduate student played #1 singles and doubles at UNG

Education:
- University of Georgia; Athens, Georgia
- University of North Georgia; Dahlonega, Georgia
- A top ranked GA-state and southern regional junior
- As an undergrad. played on the UGA Practice Team (Club Team)
- As a grad. student played #1 singles and doubles at UNG
- Was a USPTA certified tennis teaching professional
October 2020
Sarah Steele- JV Coach

Tennis- Girl's

Shari Frankel- Head Coach
Shari Frankel

770-781-2264 ext. 100625

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Shari Frankel worked several years in the business and real estate world. Coach Frankel desired to make an impact on our youth, so went back to get her Masters in School Counseling. Coach Frankel has been a Professional School Counselor at South Forsyth High School for 8 years; as well as coaching Varsity Girls Tennis.

Coach Frankel has been a lifelong tennis player-playing competitve tennis for 40+ years; played on the Buffalo State College Tennis Team, played on the CW Post Team, and Georgia USTA and ALTA for 26+ years.

Quote from Coach Frankel ...loving every minute of it!

Education:
- Undergraduate - Queens College, City University of New York; Queens , New York
- Masters- Liberty University; Lynchburg, Virginia
- Currently earning Ed.S. in Curriculum and Instruction; Piedmont College; Demorest, Georgia
October 2020
Ivan Zeitlin - JV Coach

Track- Boy's

Austin Hamilton- Head Coach
Austin Hamilton

770-781-2264 ext. 100152

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Hamilton began as a Special Education Paraprofessional at South Forsyth High School during the 2019-2020 year. This is Coach's first year as a Special Education Teacher. Coach Hamilton joined the coaching staff 2019 as the Head Boys Track and Field Coach. Coach is currently in his first year as an assistant football coach.

Education:
- B.S. in Psychology from University of West Georgia, Carrollton, Georgia. Coach Hamilton played football while attending college.
Family:

Coach Hamilton and his wife, Emily are newlyweds!
Desta Long- Assistant Coach
Van Munn- Assistant Coach
Nick Wansley- Assistant Coach
Nick Wansley

Assistant Coach

770-781-2264 ext.100363

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Nick Wansley is in his 10th year at South Forsyth High School in the Science department. Currently teacing AP and IB Physics.Coach Wansley has been coaching Track and Field for 10 years and Cross Country for 9.

Education:
- B.S.- University of Georgia;Athens, Georgia
- Doctorate-Kennesaw State University;Kennesaw, Georgia
October 2020

Track- Girl's

Christine Shaw- Head Coach
Christine Shaw

770-781-2264 ext. 101414

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Christine Shaw came to South Forsyth from Ashley Ridge High School in the fall of 2015 from Summerville, SC . Shaw taught mathematics, coached Cross Country and Track & Field. She also was a co-sponsor of their school's FCA Chapter.

Coach Shaw continues to teach mathematics and joined the coaching staff as Assistant Cross-Country coach in 2015 and Head Girls Track Coach,spring of 2016. In 2019 the Athletic Department was excited to announce that Shaw would also become the Head Cross Country coach as well as continuing as Head Girls Track coach.
- 2015 seasons Coach Shaw was voted Men Cross Country Region Coach of the Year and Women’s Track Region Coach of the Year.
- South Forsyth Girls Track Team won back-to-back Region Championships in 2017 and 2018.
Shaw enjoys her students and South Forsyth High School since coming on staff, but also continues pursuing her passion of coaching runners.

Education:
- Bachelor’s Degree- Wingate University; North Carolina.
- Please congratulate her and wish her good luck when seeing her in the halls. She takes the helm of two teams that have won two State Championships and multiple State Runner-ups the last three seasons.
Family:

Christine currently resides in Cumming with her husband Chris Shaw and stepdaughter Charlee.

October 2020
Desta Long- Assistant Coach
Van Munn- Assistant Coach
Nick Wansley- Assistant Coach
Nick Wansley

Assistant Coach

770-781-2264 ext. 100363

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Nick Wansley is in his 10th year at South Forsyth High School in the Science department. Currently teacing AP and IB Physics.Coach Wansley has been coaching Track and Field for 10 years and Cross Country for 9.

Education:
- B.S.- University of Georgia;Athens, Georgia
- Doctorate-Kennesaw State University;Kennesaw, Georgia
October 2020

Volleyball

Stefani Legall- Riddle- Head Coach
Stefani Legall-Riddle

770-781-2264 ext. 101146

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Steffi Legall is originally from Germany, where she played for the German Youth, Junior and Women’s National Teams from 1984- 1989. She participated in the 1987 and 1989 European Championships and the 1986 World Championship.

She teaches German at South Forsyth and loves sharing her native language and culture with her students.

Coach Legall-Riddle is in her second season as head coach for the South Forsyth Volleyball Program after having served as an assistant for the last three seasons. She came to South after being the Head Coach at Oconee County High School from 2009 until 2016. In her tenure at OCHS her teams accumulated an overall record of 234-95, won six area championships, played in seven State Tournaments and reached the State Semi-Finals for AAA five times.
- South Forsyth High school Varsity Volleyball Coach (2019-present)
- South Forsyth High School Asst. Varsity Coach (2016-2018)
- Oconee County High School Head VB Coach (2009-2016)
  - 5 AAA State Semi Final appearances in 7 seasons at OCHS
- University of Georgia - Head Coach (2005-06)
- University of Georgia - Asst. VB Coach (2002-04)
- Marshall University – Head Coach (1997-2002
- Butler University -Asst. Coach (1994-1997)
- Indiana University – Graduate Asst. (1993-94)
- Participated in and/or conducted various volleyball coaching activities including volleyball camp director, clinic instructor, guest speaker, summer camp instructor at many institutions such as
University of Florida, The Colorado College, Indiana University, Butler University, Emory University, University of Kentucky, University of Georgia, Marshall University, Illinois State University, University of Alabama (1992-2006)
- Presenter at Annual AVCA Coaches Convention, Richmond, VA (12/2000)
Prior to making the move to high school volleyball, Coach Legall-Riddle coached for 15 years at the collegiate level. Her last collegiate stint was as the Head Coach at the University of Georgia from 2005-2006 where she also served as an assistant coach from 2003-2005. Legall came to UGA after being the head coach at Marshall University from 1997- 2002. She further served as an assistant coach at Butler University and Indiana University.

Coach Legall participated in and/or conducted various volleyball coaching activities including volleyball camp director, clinic instructor, guest speaker, summer camp instructor at many institutions around the country.

In her playing days, Coach Legall played collegiately as an outside hitter for the University of Florida from 1990-1992 where she garnered All-SEC and All- Region Honors.

Playing Experience:
- German Youth and Junior National Team (1984-1986)
- German Women’s National Team (1986-1990)
  - Participated in European Championships 1987, 1989)
  - Participated in World Championships (1986)
- University of Florida (1990-1992)
- CJD Feuerbach 1988-1990 ( German Bundesliga Champions, German Cup Champions 1989)
Education:
- Bachelor Degree in Business Administration -University of Florida; Gainesville, Georgia
- Masters in Sports Administration- Indiana University; Bloomington, Indiana
Family:

Coach Legall-Riddle is married to Michael Riddle

October 2020
Deanna Cox- Assistant Varsity Coach
Maureen Smith- JV Coach
Jessica Bayer- Freshman Coach
Courtney Johnson- Assistant Coach
Courtney Johnson

770-781-2264 ext. 100630

Teaching/Coaching:

This is Coach Courtney Johnson 8th year in education. Coach is in her 3rd year of being a Professional School Counselor at South Forsyth High School. Previously Coach Johnson taught Language Arts for 6 years at Dacula Middle Schools in Gwinnett County.

Coach Johnson has been the Varisty Basketball Cheerleading Assistant Coach for 3 years and the Junior Varsity Volleyball Assistant Coach for the past 2 years .

Go War Eagles!

Education:
- B.S. in Middle School Education -The University of Georgia; Athens, Georgia
- Master’s degree in School Counseling- Mercer University;Atlanta, Georgia
Ocotber 2020
Alondra Garcia-Assistant Coach

Wrestling

Josh Stephen- Head Coach
Josh Stephen

770-781-2264 ext. 100824

Teaching/Coaching Experience:

Coach Stephen is currently in his 21st year of teaching in health and physical education and is in his 5th year at South Forsyth HS. He is also currently the Physical Education Department Chair as well as performs other duties within the school. He has over 20 plus years of coaching wrestling (head and assistant) at the high school level. He has won 7 state championships at Collins Hill from 2008-2012 as well as never dropped below the top 3 in the state during his time there. He also won a state title at McIntosh in 1997 and came close finishing as state runner-up at McIntosh in 1998, at Parkview in 2000, and at Harrison in 2008.

He has coached 117 state placers, 32 state champions, 12 All-Americans, and 2 future NCAA Division I All-Americans during his career. As an athlete, Coach Stephen was an undefeated Georgia State Champion his senior year and placed 2^nd in the state as a junior. He also has a twin brother, Mike, who is the head wrestling coach at Grayson High School in Gwinnett County.

Education:
- B.S. in Education- Georgia State University; Atlanta, Georgia
- M. S. in Post-Secondary Education -Troy University; Troy, Alabama
- Ed. S. in Teaching and Learning-Georgia Southern; Stateboro, Georgia
- Finishing a M.S. add-on in Educational Leadership-Columbus State; Columbus, Georgia
October 2020
Adrian Antonini- Assistant Coach
Eric Cluck- Assistant Coach
Scott Tanner- Assistant Coach

Last Modified on April 1, 2021

Athletics

Athletics Administration

Keith Gravitt- Athletic Director

Shayla Brawner-Associate Athletic Director

Sandy Dupee- Athletics Administrative Asst.

Baseball

Russ Bayer-Head Coach

Adam Baldwin- Assistant Varsity Coach

Jake Drehoff- Assistant Coach

Basketball- Boy's

Scott Givens- Head Coach

Chris Reonas - Varsity Assistant

Eric Siuta- Junior Varsity Coach

Basketball- Girl's

Keith Gravitt- Head Basketball Coach

Kassie Smith- Assistant Coach

Ally Welch- Assistant Coach

Cheer- Basketball

Ashley Fireall- Head Coach

Courtney Johnson- Assistant Coach

Cheer- Competition

Shayla Brawner- Head Competition Cheer Coach

Lyndsey Phelps- Assistant Competition Cheer Coach

Kendall Robinson- JV Competition Cheer Coach

Cheer-Football

Nicole McClinton- Head Coach

Leah McGray- Assistant Coach

Kendall Robinson- JV Football Cheer Coach

Cross Country

Christine Shaw- Head Coach

Desta Long- Assistant Coach

Nick Wansley- Assistant Coach

Van Munn- Assistant Coach

Dance

Carla Yonk- Head Coach

Breenan Byrd- Assistant Coach

Sarah Darby- Assistant Coach

eSports

Terry Wickman- Head Coach

Flag Football

Kassie Smith- Head Coach

Leanne Brooks-Assistant Coach

Dustin Morris- Assistant Coach

Football

Jeff Arnette- Head Coach

Troy Morris- Assistant Head Coach

Chris Aycock- Special Teams Coordinator-Tight Ends-Outside Llinebackers

Nick Belyew- Receivers

Austin Hamilton- Assistant Offensive Line

Heath Hover- Head JV Coach- Run Game Coordinator-Offensive Line

Thomas McCarter-Linebackers

Joe Outlaw- Safeties

Sam Outlaw- Running Backs

Luke Wagner- Freshman Football Head Coach- Varsity Cornerbacks

Ross Walker- Defensive Coordinator

Golf- Boy's

Scott Givens- Head Coach

Golf- Girl's

Nicole McClinton- Head Coach

Kendall Robinson- Assistant Girl's Golf Coach

Gymnastics

Christine Naffky- Head Coach

Rachel Satori- Assistant Coach

Lacrosse- Men's

Steve Hurlbut- Head Coach

Lacrosse- Girl's

Soccer- Boy's

Chere' Thomas- Varsity Boys Head Soccer Coach

David Owen- Assistant Coach

Luke Wagner- JV Head Boys Soccer Coach

Soccer- Girl's

Erik Moore- Head Coach

Colleen Tereniak- JV Head Coach

Softball

Leanne Brooks- Head Coach

Elizabeth Pearson- Head JV Coach

Adam Baldwin- Assistant Coach

Dan Weber- Assistant Coach

Swim & Dive

Katharine Bergdahl- Head Coach