Claxton has hired Phillip Richards to serve as head coach—marking the latest chapter in the school’s 100-year history. Coach Richards was approved by the Evans County Board of Education on Monday, March 10 and has been praised by the administration—including Claxton principal Dr. Paul Mizell.
“Coach Richards brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and a winning culture to our football program,” said Mizell. “His ability to inspire student-athletes and build competitive teams makes him an outstanding addition to the Tigers family.”
Claxton’s search for a new head coach began in February when former head coach Greg Hill was announced to not be returning to his role in 2025. Coach Hill had led the Tigers since the 2021 season, while teaching weight training and helping the program introduce the new Tiger Town Stadium in 2023. Coach Hill’s efforts were appreciated for his four years at the school.
“Coach Hill has a distinguished career in football and coaching and is an upstanding role model for today’s youth,” said ECCSS Superintendent Dr. Marty Waters. “His contributions, both on and off the field, have left a lasting impact on our school and community, and we sincerely thank him for his service. As we look toward the future of Claxton High School football, we believe it is in the best interest of the program to move in a different direction. This decision was not made lightly, and we deeply appreciate Coach Hill’s dedication to our student-athletes and his commitment to their growth as players and individuals. We wish Coach Hill all the best in future endeavors.”
The Tigers failed to make the playoffs this past season and finished 1-9—marking the fewest wins since the 2016 season. Last year also snapped a two-year playoff streak. Claxton has been outsted in the first round of the playoffs in each of its last nine postseason berths and hasn’t had a playoff win since its 11-1 campaign in 2001. That was also the last time Claxton won a region title.
Coach Richards comes to Claxton from Screven County—a team that defeated Claxton 36-12 in last year’s Region 3-Div. II opener. He has over 30 years of coaching experience and has served as a defensive and offensive coordinator in addition to a strength and conditioning coach.
The Claxton community will have a scheduled meet and greet with Coach Richards on Thursday April 3 at the Evans County Board room and he will lay out his vision for the team.
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