BELFRY, Ky. – The Belfry community is mourning the loss of their beloved head football coach, Philip Haywood, who passed away on Wednesday afternoon. Haywood had been in serious condition following a car crash that occurred on Saturday morning. He was taken to the University of Kentucky Hospital, where he sadly succumbed to his injuries.
Regarded as the most successful high school football coach in Kentucky history, Haywood took over the Belfry Pirates’ football program in 1984 and dedicated 41 seasons to coaching these young athletes. Under his leadership, the Pirates captured their first state title in Class 2A in 2003. This victory kicked off a remarkable run, leading to a total of eight state championships in his career—achievements that include wins in 2004, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2019, and 2021.
In 2013, Haywood earned national recognition when he was voted USA Today’s best high school football coach. He was not only cherished for his coaching abilities but also for his deep commitment to the community. As a long-time leader of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at Belfry, he impacted many lives beyond the football field.
Haywood was also an accomplished author, publishing two books. His first, ‘Faith, Family, and Football’, came out on December 23, 2014, while his second, ‘Climb the Mountain’, was published on May 17, 2023. Throughout his life, Haywood often expressed his desire to be remembered for his dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of young people.
Congressman Hal Rogers shared heartfelt words regarding Haywood’s legacy, emphasizing that his achievements reflect not only his success on the field but also the impact he had as a life coach and leader in the community. “Coach Haywood was more than a football coach; he was a life coach,” Rogers stated, highlighting how Haywood inspired hope for over four generations.
As the 2023 high school football season begins, it also marks the 20th anniversary of Haywood’s initial state championship victory in 2003. His legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of his players, families, and the broader Belfry community.
