King Philip Head Coach Brian Lee is stepping down after 21 seasons. Asked why he was stepping away, Lee simply said it was time.
“I’ve accomplished everything I set out to do at KP. All that work and constant battles with outside forces takes a toll, and I’m tired. It was time.”
Lee took over the program in 2005 and after three lean years, turned the program in 2008 with a 9-2 record. From that point on, King Philip only had one losing season in 16 years under his watch.
During his time at the helm, Lee compiled a record of 176-62 with 8 Hockomock League titles and 4 Super Bowl titles. Lee led the Warriors to eight Super Bowl appearances. Lee’s four Super Bowl winning teams had a combined 52-0 record. King Philip had two 25 game winning streaks in the past eight seasons.
Perhaps the most telling impressive stat of just how good the program was under Lee is the fact that the Warriors went 38-1 the past three seasons and won two Super Bowls. An incredible run.
In a statement released by the school, King Philip Athletic Director Gary Brown says that Lee set an unparalleled standard at the school.
“Coach Lee helped set the standard for what King Philip football represents,” Brown said. “His dedication to our student-athletes and his commitment to building a program centered on teamwork, accountability, and pride have left a lasting mark on this school and community.”
King Philip Principal Nicole Bottomley echoed that sentiment.
“Coach Lee has made a meaningful impact on our school both as a teacher and as a coach,” said Bottomley. “He has built strong relationships with students and colleagues and has helped shape the experience of so many young people during their time at King Philip.”
Superintendent Rich Drolet praised Lee for being an integral part of the King Philip community the past 20 years.
“For more than two decades, Coach Lee has been an important part of the King Philip community both in the classroom and on the field,” Superintendent Dr. Drolet said. “He has been a positive role model and influenced thousands of students through his work in the classroom and through athletics. We appreciate everything he has given to King Philip.”
Lee says that nothing has brought him more joy than being the head football coach at King Philip.
“Nothing has brought me more joy and filled me with more pride than being a Warrior. I love KP.” Lee added that he was blessed to coach so many wonderful young men during his time at the school. “I am so blessed to teach and coach in a community with such hard working, high character kids.”
His last comment was the mantra of the program, one that he hopes will carry on moving forward.
“Hard work pays off!”
A mantra defined the program Lee built. A run that will be remembered around these parts for a long time.