Shadowens takes full reign for KCHS Irish

Knoxville Catholic High School has announced Philip Shadowens as football head coach of the Fighting Irish.

Co-head coach at KCHS with Steve Matthews in 2023, Shadowens has 29 years of head coaching experience, highlighted by back-to-back Class 5A state championships at his alma mater, Smyrna High School, in 2006 and 2007.

He was named 1994 Tennessee Coach of the Year and Tennessee Titans Coach of the Year in 2006.

 “Coach Shad’s track record of building state championship football programs speaks volumes,” Jason Surlas, KCHS athletic director, said. “His unparalleled football knowledge and special talent for positively influencing players, students and fellow coaches set him apart.

“His genuine passion for the profession, along with unwavering support from his family, makes him the perfect fit for our school and community,” Surlas added.