In a significant shift for local sports, both Islands High School and Savannah High are preparing to welcome new leadership on the gridiron. Following the departures of DeShawn Printup and Anthony “Bud” Tolliver, the schools are now focused on finding the right candidates to guide their football programs into a brighter future.

Empowering Tomorrow's Champions Through Leadership and Dedication

The Legacy of DeShawn Printup at Islands High

DeShawn Printup’s tenure as head coach at Islands High School was marked by both triumphs and challenges. His journey began in late 2019 when he assumed the interim role following the departure of Robert Zoller due to GHSA recruiting violations. The team faced adversity, but Printup’s leadership quickly became evident. In 2020, despite the disruptions caused by the global pandemic, Printup led the Sharks to an impressive 7-2 record, culminating in the school’s first-ever playoff victory.However, the road ahead proved difficult. Since 2021, the Sharks have struggled with consecutive winless seasons. Despite these setbacks, Printup remained committed to his players, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and dedication. He continued to serve as a special education teacher at the school, where he built strong relationships with students, which made his decision to step down particularly challenging. Ultimately, after receiving advice from mentors and considering administrative changes, Printup felt it was time to move on, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and unwavering support for his athletes.

Tolliver’s Departure and a Return to Roots

Anthony “Bud” Tolliver’s experience at Savannah High was equally transformative, though in different ways. Appointed as head coach in April 2023, Tolliver inherited a team that had been struggling for years. During his two-year tenure, the Blue Jackets did not secure a single victory, posting a disheartening 0-20 record. This stark performance highlighted the depth of challenges facing the program.Tolliver’s decision to return to Virginia, where he began his coaching career, reflects a desire to reconnect with his roots. Taking the helm at Hidden Valley High, he aims to bring fresh perspectives to a place that holds personal significance. For Savannah High, this transition marks a pivotal moment as the school seeks to rebuild its football tradition. The last winning season for the Blue Jackets dates back to 2017, and the community is eager to see a resurgence under new leadership.

A Fresh Start for Both Schools

As both Islands High and Savannah High embark on the search for new coaches, the emphasis is on finding individuals who can make a lasting impact. Athletic directors and school administrators are committed to identifying candidates who understand the unique dynamics of each school. For Savannah High, the focus is on someone who can connect deeply with the players and the broader community, fostering a culture of excellence.The process of selecting new coaches will be thorough, ensuring that the chosen leaders possess the skills and vision necessary to revitalize the programs. Both schools recognize the importance of building strong foundations, not just on the field but also in the classroom and beyond. With the right guidance, there is hope that these teams can once again become pillars of pride for their respective communities.

The Road Ahead: Building for Success

Moving forward, the priority for both Islands High and Savannah High is clear: to establish a culture of success that extends beyond wins and losses. The new coaches will play a crucial role in shaping the future of these programs, instilling values of hard work, discipline, and teamwork. By focusing on player development and community engagement, they aim to create environments where young athletes can thrive.For Islands High, the goal is to recapture the momentum seen in 2020, while for Savannah High, it’s about breaking the cycle of struggles and rebuilding confidence. Both schools are committed to providing their players with the resources and support needed to excel. As the search for new leaders continues, the excitement and anticipation grow, signaling a promising new chapter for high school football in Savannah.