North Charlotte Today

The Carolina Panthers have recognized Andy Capone, head football coach at Weddington High School, as their High School Coach of the Year. The announcement was made during a ceremony at the school where Capone was honored in front of coaches, players, cheerleaders, students, and administrators. The event included a pep rally with representatives from the Panthers and GMC presenting Capone with a trophy and a $2,000 grant to support the school's athletics program.

"Coach Capone's sustained success and dedication to making a meaningful difference beyond the field have left a significant mark on our region," stated Riley Fields, Director of Community Relations for the Carolina Panthers. "The Carolina Panthers and GMC are honored to name Weddington High School's Andy Capone as the team's High School Coach of the Year and nominee for the national Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year Award."

Capone has earned several accolades including Conference Coach of the Year, three-time Union County Coach of the Year, 2024 NC East/West All Star Game Coach, 2023 Charlotte Observer Coach of the Year, and American Football Coaches Association 35 Under 35.

While his achievements on-field are notable, Capone is also recognized for his commitment to his players' futures. Under his leadership since 2018, Weddington has maintained a 100 percent graduation rate. His program emphasizes academics through weekly progress reports and tutoring. More than 30 players have received college scholarships under his guidance; two have reached professional levels in the NFL.

Community service is another cornerstone of Capone’s philosophy. He encourages players to give back by donating food annually to Loaves and Fishes Foundation—a local non-profit organization—and assisting those affected by natural disasters like Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina. Additionally, they conduct middle school football camps each summer where high school players volunteer their time.

Andy Capone's dedication both on and off-field highlights him as an exemplary leader within his community—a fact acknowledged by this award from the Carolina Panthers.