CHARLOTTE - The Carolina Panthers honored Weddington High School's head football coach, Andy Capone as the team's High School Coach of the Year during a recognition ceremony at Weddington High School today. Capone was celebrated by coaches, players, cheerleaders, students, and administrators during a spirited pep rally, in which Panthers and GMC representatives presented him with a commemorative trophy and a $2,000 grant check to support the Weddington High School 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," said Carolina Panthers Director of Community Relations Riley Fields. "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."

Conference Coach of the Year, 3x Union County Coach of the Year, 2024 NC East/West All Star Game Coach, 2023 Charlotte Observer Coach of the Year, and most recently, American Football Coaches Association 35 Under 35.

While his on-field successes speak loudly, Capone's commitment to the future of his players stands out above all. Academics is a cornerstone of the Weddington program. Weekly progress reports, regular grade checks, and an emphasis on tutoring contribute to these impactful results. Capone's program has had a 100 percent graduation rate since he took over in 2018. Additionally, Weddington has established a pathway for players to continue playing football, with over 30 players who have received college football scholarships and two playing in the NFL.

Giving back is a focal point for Capone and he instills the values of community service in his players. Weddington donates food and canned goods annually to the Loaves and Fishes Foundation, a non-profit food pantry organization that supports local families in crisis. Over the past two seasons, they have donated over 500 pounds of nonperishable food items. In the wake of the devastation of Hurricane Helene, the team donated water and other necessities for those affected in Western North Carolina. Each year the team runs a middle school football camp in the summer, with players volunteering their time to invest in the younger generation. Players also make multiple stops at elementary schools to welcome kids to school and encourage them as they start their day.

Andy Capone's sustained on-field success, player development and commitment to community establishes him as a generational leader, and the Carolina Panthers are proud to recognize his accomplishments.