The game of football and the town of Summerville, South Carolina are losing a living legend this summer. No longer will John McKissick be patrolling the sidelines during Summerville High School football games, as the legend has decided to retire. McKissick was the head football coach for over 60 years, and along the way, became the most winning football coach at any level of competition.
Not only does McKissick hold the record for most victories during his illustrious career, but he has gained accolades throughout as well. Live 5 WCSC has a short list of some of the more meaningful awards he has received:
"The recognitions he's been awarded over six decades have been almost countless. Three times McKissick has been named the national high school coach of the year. He's also a member of the South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame, the South Carolina football coaches association hall of fame, the South Carolina hall of fame and the national high school hall of fame."
With having 621 victories over the course of 63 seasons, McKissick has dedicated his life to teaching football to the youth of Summerville. McKissick explained to The Post and Courier that, even at 88 years of age, it was still difficult to step away:
"My age is catching up with me. That's a long life and it has been a long time coaching football. A lot of people have asked me if I'm sure that this is what I want to do. I think I'm sure. I know it's time. I haven't been forced to do anything. I was told I could stay as long as I wanted to. I've had great support from everybody, my wife and children. It's hard to think anything could be better than my life here."
Do you think it was the right time for McKissick to step down from his head coaching duties? Do you think he will hold on to the title, or will another coach gain more victories than him? We want to hear from you. Tell us your thoughts below.
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