Minton retires after 38 years on football sideline

Football coach Tommy Minton, who had successful tenures leading the Patterson and Central Catholic teams, has announced that the 2023 season was his last on the sideline.

Minton, who has coached Vandebilt Catholic for the last three seasons, announced his retirement Tuesday on X, formerly known as Twitter. He coached for 38 years.

"I just told my team that for the first time in 38 years I won’t be coaching football next year," Minton said in his X post. "The relationships will be missed!

"So many great men I have had the pleasure to work with and Coach thank you! I guess that honey do list can’t be put off anymore lol."

Minton led Patterson High to two state championship games. According to a statement from Vandebilt, Minton took teams to the quarterfinals or beyond 10 times and compiled a record of 230-121.

Vandebilt went 5-4 in 2023 and reached the second round of the LHSAA Select Division II playoffs.

“I’d like to thank the Vandebilt Catholic community, especially all the coaches and players in the football program for their commitment to athletics at VCHS," Minton was quoted as saying in the Vandebilt release. "I’m ready to enjoy my family.”

Jeremy Gueldner, Vandebilt's president, said Minton's impact on the school went beyond his three years as football coach.

"His leadership in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida was essential to providing a sense of normalcy for our student athletes," Gueldner said. "We wish him well in his retirement.”