Aiken, SC – [January 30, 2025] Aiken High School is excited to announce the appointment of Coach Steve Hibbitts as its new Head Football Coach. A seasoned educator and coach, Hibbitts brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and a passion for developing student-athletes both on and off the field.
"As an Aiken native, I saw the Aiken Football position as a chance to help restore a school and community to their rightful place among the best places in this state to live and allow their children to develop,” the veteran coach with nearly three decades of experience shared. "Aiken has a rich tradition of success as a school and a football program. The chance to be a part of helping this community see that tradition return was too much to pass up."
Coach Hibbitts most recently led Lakeside High School’s football program in Evans, Georgia, where he built a competitive and respected team. Last season, Lakeside achieved a school-record 9-1 regular season, securing the program’s first Georgia High School Association (GHSA) playoff win in 15 years and cementing his recognition as the Georgia 5A Coach of the Year. Under his guidance, Lakeside consistently developed student-athletes for collegiate football opportunities while fostering a culture of academic and athletic excellence.
His first head coaching position came in 2010 at Westside High School in Augusta, Georgia. At Westside, he was able to help turn around the struggling program and led the Patriots to back-to-back appearances in the playoffs before leaving in 2014 to lead Lakeside’s program. He played a key role in revitalizing struggling programs as Defensive Coordinator at North Augusta High School (2006-2010) and Offensive Coordinator at Westside High School in Anderson (2001-2006). At North Augusta, he helped turn a dormant program into a consistent contender, making the playoffs three consecutive years and reaching the second round in 2009. At Westside, he guided the team to an 11-2 season and a Region Championship in 2005, implementing a high-powered offense that set school records. Earlier in his career, 1996-2001, he supported Midland Valley’s football program, coaching Junior Varsity and assisting Varsity.
In addition to football, he has successfully led academic support initiatives, community outreach efforts, and leadership development programs. At Lakeside, he spearheaded a Character Coach Program, ensuring players had mentorship and guidance beyond the game. He also established a comprehensive nutrition program to support athlete performance and recovery, as well as an academic tutoring system to help student-athletes excel in the classroom. His well-rounded approach to coaching extends beyond wins and losses, emphasizing holistic development for student-athletes.
Hibbitts’ academic background is equally impressive. He holds a Master of Science in Biology/Secondary Education from the University of West Alabama and a Bachelor of Science in Biology/Secondary Education from the University of South Carolina Aiken. A National Board-Certified Science Teacher, Hibbitts has taught a range of courses, including biology, physical education, and advanced placement science classes.
Aiken High School Principal Angela Moore, an Aiken High alumna, expressed great enthusiasm for the new hire.
“As a proud graduate of Aiken High, I know firsthand the deep-rooted tradition and passion that surrounds our football program,” Principal Moore said. “Coach Hibbits brings an undeniable energy, a proven track record of success, and a clear commitment to shaping not just athletes, but well-rounded young people. His vision aligns with our school’s values, and he shares a desire to bring the community together to rally around Aiken High School. I am confident he will elevate our program to new heights.”
Assistant Principal George Pope emphasized Coach Hibbitts’ vision for the program. "Coach Hibbitts plans to change the culture of the AHS football program. His plan matched our vision, and his coaching history has shown he can do it."
Athletic Director Phillip Blacha and AHS Touchdown Club President Russ Padgett are looking forward to Coach Hibbitts' leadership on the football field. "He's been around the CSRA for a long time. He's from Aiken County. He knows the area, and he knows what it takes to be successful," Blacha shared. "His experience turning football programs around," Padgett added, "made him the best fit for Aiken High."
With a history of building competitive programs and a vision for excellence, Coach Hibbitts is ready to lead the Fighting Green Hornets into a new era. He will meet with players this afternoon (Thursday, January 30) to begin building relationships and setting the foundation for the upcoming season. As he balances his transition between Lakeside and Aiken over the next few months, he will spend as much time with his new team as possible to work on player development. "We will instill confidence, love, and great instruction for each and every one of the players and students that walk the halls of Aiken High School."
With a team motto of #WINFOREVER, Hibbitts will encourage players to constantly compete with themselves and each other to do their best in every facet of their lives during high school and throughout their lives.
"I am honored to join Aiken High School and be part of this storied football program," he shared. "This is going to be so much fun watching these kids grow!"