News Sports

Portal’s Tendai Haggins Named Georgia Coach of the Year for Boys Track & Field

Tendai Haggins, the head coach of the boys’ track and field team at Portal Middle High School, has been honored as the 2024 Georgia Coach of the Year for Boys Track & Field. Recognized by the Georgia High School Athletic Association (GHSA), this prestigious award celebrates Haggins’ extraordinary dedication, leadership, and impact on his athletes and the broader community.

A Humble Yet Well-Deserved Recognition

Haggins, who expressed his gratitude and humility upon receiving the award, said, “I am humbled and overwhelmed. This means the world to me.” His heartfelt response to the recognition reflects his genuine passion for coaching and his commitment to his athletes. On December 17, Haggins, accompanied by his wife, Jan, was honored at Mercedes-Benz Stadium during the state football championship games. The award ceremony highlighted the achievements of 27 coaches from across Georgia, each representing different sports.

The honor was not just for Haggins’ coaching success but for his enduring contributions to the community. Over the years, he has been a role model for his athletes, guiding them not only in athletics but also in life.

Tendai Haggins Portal Middle High School coach

A Lifetime of Service to the Portal Community

A native of Portal, Georgia, Haggins has deep roots in the local community. He attended Willow Hill School and graduated from Portal High School in 1987. For 26 years, Haggins has served as a physical education and health teacher at Bulloch County Schools, while also coaching various sports at Portal. His experience and commitment to education have earned him respect in both the school system and the wider community.

In addition to his role as head coach for track and field, Haggins has worn many hats throughout his coaching career. He has previously served as an assistant coach for girls’ basketball and football, and as head coach for the baseball team. He also currently helps with the school’s softball program and manages concessions for both basketball and football games. His versatility and willingness to contribute in multiple areas demonstrate his commitment to fostering a positive and well-rounded sports culture at Portal.

Justin Chester, Portal’s athletic director, praised Haggins for his unwavering dedication. “Tendai’s leadership and hard work have truly made a difference for our student-athletes,” Chester said. “We are so proud to see his efforts recognized on this stage. He goes above and beyond for our school community, and it is so very well deserved.”

A New Track, A Bright Future

Haggins’ efforts are now backed by the opening of a new track and field complex at Portal, which he is particularly excited about. “For years, we had to practice in neighborhoods and farmers’ fields, relying on the generosity of nearby schools like Bulloch Academy, Statesboro High, and Georgia Southern to share their facilities with us,” Haggins recalled. “But now, we have a track of our own, and we’re thrilled to be able to practice on it.”

The new facility represents a significant milestone for the program and highlights the school’s commitment to enhancing the athletic experience for students. With the added resources, Haggins is eager for the upcoming spring season, hoping to further develop his athletes’ potential on the new track.

A National Stage for Haggins

Haggins’ recognition as Georgia’s Coach of the Year has propelled him into the national spotlight. His nomination for the honor came from Tanya Anderson, the associate director of the GHSA and track and field sport coordinator. As part of the National Federation of State High School Associations Coaches Awards Program, Haggins now competes as a nominee for the National Coach of the Year award, a competition that recognizes coaches from across the United States.

“We would like to take this opportunity to recognize Tendai Haggins for the good work he does,” Anderson said in a congratulatory email. “Thank you for your contributions to your sport and to the athletes of Georgia that compete.”

Haggins is one of 847 coaches recognized at the state and sectional levels before the NFHS selects its National Coaches of the Year. His passion for coaching and making a positive impact has earned him this prestigious distinction, which will surely inspire future generations of athletes and coaches alike.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *