After a successful three-year tenure, Bret McGatlin has stepped down as the head coach of Valor Christian's football team. The Eagles' Athletic Director, Keith Wahl, confirmed the news to The Denver Post, signaling a new chapter for the storied program. This marks the fifth coaching change in just nine years for Valor Christian, a school renowned for its eight state championships. As the search for a new leader begins, the focus remains on restoring the team's dominance and rekindling past glories.

A New Era Begins: Valor Christian Prepares for Future Success

The Evolution of Coaching at Valor Christian

The landscape of Valor Christian football has seen significant shifts over the past decade. Each coaching transition has brought fresh perspectives and strategies, reflecting the dynamic nature of high school sports. Donnie Yantis, Ed McCaffrey, Rod Sherman, and most recently Bret McGatlin, each left an indelible mark on the program. Yantis introduced innovative offensive plays during his two-year stint before moving to Texas. McCaffrey, a former NFL star, led the Eagles to their last state title in 2018 before transitioning to academia. Sherman's five-year reign saw unparalleled success, culminating in five consecutive state titles. McGatlin, with his deep roots in Colorado football, guided the Eagles through challenging times, including three consecutive championship losses to Cherry Creek.Despite these setbacks, McGatlin's record speaks volumes about his dedication and skill. Under his leadership, the Eagles achieved a commendable 28-10 win-loss ratio. Notably, the team reached the semifinals in 2024 and made it to the championship game in 2022. Even in 2023, when the Eagles faced their lowest win count since 2008, McGatlin's strategic adjustments kept the team competitive. His decision to step down was met with gratitude from the administration, who acknowledged his contributions and wished him well in future endeavors.

Pursuing Excellence: The Search for a New Head Coach

As Valor Christian embarks on the search for its next head coach, the emphasis is on finding someone who can not only lead but also inspire. Keith Wahl emphasized the importance of identifying "the most excellent candidate," regardless of geographical boundaries. This approach underscores the school's commitment to excellence and its willingness to explore all options. The ideal candidate would possess a blend of experience, innovation, and a passion for nurturing young talent. Bob Stitt, the newly appointed offensive coordinator, represents one such possibility. With a distinguished career spanning multiple institutions, including stints at Oklahoma State and Harvard, Stitt brings a wealth of knowledge and adaptability to the table. Whether he will remain in this role or be considered for the head coaching position remains to be seen. Wahl indicated that Stitt's future involvement will depend on the identity of the new head coach, adding an element of uncertainty to the process.

Restoring Glory: The Path Forward for Valor Christian

Valor Christian's legacy in football is undeniable, having won eight state championships, five of which were at the Class 5A level. However, the absence of a title since 2018 has fueled a renewed sense of urgency within the community. Fans and stakeholders alike are eager to see the Eagles reclaim their throne. The upcoming season will be crucial in determining whether the team can break its losing streak in the championship games. To achieve this, the new coach must address several key areas. Strengthening the defense, refining offensive strategies, and fostering a resilient team culture are paramount. Additionally, building strong relationships with players and staff can create a cohesive unit capable of overcoming adversity. The appointment of a visionary leader could be the catalyst needed to propel Valor Christian back to the pinnacle of high school football. The application process for the head coaching position is already underway, with Wahl confident in attracting top-tier candidates. As the Eagles prepare for the 2025 season, the anticipation builds for what promises to be an exciting and pivotal year in the program's history.