In South Burlington, Rahn Fleming has decided to step down as the head coach of the CVU Redhawks football team, after dedicating six years to transforming the program into a championship contender. The 65-year-old made this announcement on Wednesday morning, citing health and family reasons as his primary motivations for leaving. Fleming, who also serves as the coordinator of CVU’s learning center, spoke to his players about his choice before sending out a more detailed 700-plus word letter to CVU football families.
In a phone interview later that afternoon, Fleming reassured everyone that he is “not in imminent danger” but stressed the importance of prioritizing his health. After a recent visit to his primary care physician, he realized that his demanding schedule and limited sleep were taking a toll on him. “The four-to-five-hour nights of sleep from August into November would’ve been easier when I was a young man of 50 instead of 65,” he said. “In my life, I’m probably mid-third quarter and I’m not ready to be in the fourth quarter just yet, so I gotta change the game plan.”
Fleming’s leadership has significantly shifted CVU’s football dynamics. When he started in 2019, the team recorded a disappointing 2-7 season, missing playoffs. However, over the next few years, he led the Redhawks to remarkable achievements, including a Division I state championship victory in 2022, followed by an impressive 11-0 season in 2024. This season, they dominated their opponents, outscoring them 462-62 and capped it off with a 41-14 win over Rutland in the title game. Fleming was also named the Division I Coach of the Year for his efforts.
Reflecting on his journey, Fleming expressed immense pride in the success the program has achieved. “I mean this so sincerely, our record, our juggernaut of a season are side effects of the culture we created on the team,” he said. “Of the work ethic the kids brought, of the enthusiasm they had, of the commitment to one another.”
As Fleming prepares to step down, he leaves behind a legacy of hard work and strong community ties. His focus now shifts to his health and family, a decision embraced with gratitude for the journey he has been on with the Redhawks. “I’m the proudest papa in the state of Vermont,” he remarked, acknowledging the bond he has built with his players over the years.
