Charlotte, North Carolina, August 28, 2025
News Summary
High school football coaches in North Carolina are experiencing significant pay disparities when compared to their colleagues in South Carolina and Georgia. Currently, the average stipend for coaches in North Carolina is just over $5,000 annually, which is taxed heavily and has seen no increase since 2018. This stagnant compensation raises concerns about retaining talent in the coaching ranks and the overall quality of high school football programs. Critics argue that better pay is essential for fostering youth programs and ensuring student success.
Charlotte, North Carolina — High school football coaches in North Carolina are facing a notable pay disparity compared to their counterparts in neighboring states such as South Carolina and Georgia. This pay gap raises concerns regarding the retention of talent within the state’s coaching ranks, which could ultimately affect the quality of high school football programs across North Carolina.
Currently, the stipend for a high school football coach in North Carolina averages just over $5,000 annually. This salary is taxed at an alarming rate of nearly 50 percent, leaving coaches with a significantly reduced income. The last salary adjustment for coaching stipends in the state happened in 2018, and prior to that, there was a staggering 14-year period without any increase. This stagnant pay raises questions about the state’s commitment to supporting high school athletics.
Moreover, in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) system, all football coaches receive the same stipend, irrespective of their experience or tenure. This policy leads to frustrations among coaches who believe that experience should be rewarded, adding to the exodus of talented individuals to states with better compensation packages.
A recent report has revealed that only four football coaches in North Carolina earn over $100,000. These are:
- George Small at Hoke County — $114,298
- Travis Gaster at Princeton — $108,053
- Brad Denson at Richmond Senior — $106,274
- Mike Wilbanks at Shelby — $100,063
In stark contrast, South Carolina boasts 34 coaches with annual salaries exceeding $100,000, even though North Carolina has more than twice the number of public high schools. Coaches in Georgia and Alabama also enjoy significantly higher salaries, with rare top salaries reaching as high as $225,000 for Georgia’s Joey King and $162,054 for Alabama’s Mark Freeman. In the Houston area of Texas, a staggering 25 coaches earn more than $127,000, with the average compensation for coaches standing at $116,287.
The need for better pay in North Carolina is further underscored by the perspective of coaches who emphasize that improved salaries are crucial for nurturing youth programs and aiding student success. The current dismal salary conditions contribute to North Carolina’s struggle in retaining its best coaches, who are often lured away by better offers in neighboring states.
One notable figure in this ongoing conversation is Brad Denson, who is currently the highest-paid public school football coach in North Carolina despite this being his first year in the role after a notable playing career. Denson’s appointment represents a significant salary growth for coaching positions in Richmond County, a region that places a high value on football.
Similarly, coaches like Mike Wilbanks at Shelby High and Travis Gaster at Princeton High and Middle schools must balance multiple roles that extend beyond coaching. This multifaceted approach could potentially hinder their performance in coaching, as they also take on responsibilities characteristic of athletic directors and administrators. Wilbanks earns just over $100,000, while Gaster’s earnings reflect the multitude of roles he manages.
Many coaches across North Carolina argue that investing in and supporting coaching positions is pivotal for enhancing athletic programs and elevating community engagement within schools. The outdated pay structures seemingly restrict the potential growth and success of high school football in North Carolina.
FAQ
Why are North Carolina high school football coaches paid less than those in neighboring states?
The stipend for football coaches in North Carolina has not significantly increased since 2018, and the state’s policies do not reward coaches based on experience. This stagnation in compensation has led to a pay gap compared to states like South Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama.
How much do the highest-paid football coaches in North Carolina earn?
Currently, four football coaches in North Carolina earn over $100,000 annually, with the highest being George Small at $114,298.
What impacts does low pay have on coaching quality in North Carolina?
Low salary levels lead to the loss of experienced coaches to neighboring states offering better pay. This can hinder the development of high school football programs and limit opportunities for student athletes.
Chart of Key Features
| Category | North Carolina | South Carolina | Georgia | Texas (Houston Area) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average Coach Salary | $5,000 | Over $100,000 (34 coaches) | $225,000 (Joey King) | $116,287 (Average) |
| Highest Paid Coach | $114,298 (George Small) | N/A | $225,000 (Joey King) | $127,000+ |
| Time Since Last Pay Increase | 5 years | Ongoing Improvements | Ongoing Improvements | N/A |
| Number of Coaches Over $100,000 | 4 Coaches | 34 Coaches | N/A | 25 Coaches |
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Additional Resources
- Charlotte Observer: High School Football Pay Disparities
- Wikipedia: High School Football in the United States
- HighSchoolOT: Starting 22 Best Players
- Google Search: High School Football Coaching Salaries
- On3: Highest Paid North Carolina High School Coaches
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Coaching
- Charlotte Observer: High School Football Coaching Challenges
- Google News: North Carolina High School Football
- Sports Illustrated: Changes in South Carolina High School Football
- Herald Online: High School Football Updates
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
