By Thomas Grant Jr.
Chapin High School is beginning the search for a new head football coach following Ryan Cole’s transition into an administrative role.
After two seasons leading the Eagles, Cole has been approved as the school’s new assistant principal. The Lexington-Richland District Five office notified parents of the change in an email, stating he will begin his new duties on Wednesday.
“Coach Cole brings a wealth of educational and leadership experience to CHS, including time as a teacher and administrator in our district,” the message read. “He has consistently proven himself to be a supportive servant leader who believes deeply in the power of building strong relationships and offering respect and dignity to all whom he is charged with supporting and leading.
“His development and deep involvement with our Chapin Athletic Leadership Institute (C.A.L.I.) demonstrate his passion for helping young people become the best version of themselves. These qualities, along with his high work ethic, will serve him well in his new role.”
Cole compiled a 6–16 record over two seasons with one playoff appearance. The 2024 season marked Chapin’s first winless campaign since 1998 and the Eagles were the only Region 4-5A team not to reach the postseason.
Region 4-5A has remained one of the state’s most competitive football groups. District Five rival Dutch Fork secured its fourth consecutive state championship for the second time. Another district school, Irmo, finished as state runner-up for the second straight year, while White Knoll was the 2023 state runner-up and the Class 5A Division II Lower State runner-up last season.
Athletics Director Billie Williams and the District Five Office of Human Resources will lead the hiring process for Chapin’s next head coach. The school plans to gather input from key stakeholders to identify the qualities they value most in the program’s new leader.
