Coaches Prevew: Highschool Football
The Rotary Club of Newnan welcomes the head football coaches from our
five local high schools for this year’s annual program:
John Small – East Coweta High School
Head Coach since 2017, previously at South Gwinnett High School
with over a decade of leadership experience. Former Defensive
Coordinator at Oconee County High School and assistant coach at
the University of West Georgia. He and his wife, Julie, have two
daughters.
Chip Walker – Newnan High School
Former Sandy Creek High School head coach for 12 seasons,
leading the team to 12 straight playoff appearances, six Region
Championships, and three State Championships. Graduate of
Stephens County High School with advanced degrees in education
and leadership.
Kevin Whitley – Northgate High School
Joined Northgate in 2024 after five seasons coaching at Georgia
Southern University, where he also served as interim head coach.
Former All-American player and 18-year high school head coach
with seven region titles and numerous all-state players.
Levi Dunn – The Heritage School
Appointed in 2025 as Heritage’s 10th head coach. Former
Northside High School quarterback and LaGrange College player.
Coaching experience includes UTEP, Texas State, Calvary Christian
(2020 GAPPS state title), and Southern Academy in Alabama.
Jeff Schmidlkofer – Trinity Christian School
Took over at Trinity Christian in 2025 after 14 years at Starr’s Mill
High School. Brings over 30 years of coaching experience at
multiple Georgia schools and built a top lacrosse program at Starr’s
Mill with several Final Four appearances.
Each coach will preview their team’s season, highlight key players, and
share insight on the year ahead. This long-standing Rotary tradition
celebrates the athletes, coaches, and school spirit that unite Coweta
County.