Courtesy of Coach Botelho’s X account

The Whitman-Hanson Regional High School Athletic Department has officially announced that Zack Botelho is stepping down from his position as head football coach. After five years at the helm of the program, Botelho has decided to step away from the role for personal reasons.

Athletic Director Bob Rodgers expressed profound gratitude for Botelho’s contributions to the program, school and athletic department.

“Coach Botelho has made an immeasurable impact on our student-athletes and community,” Athletic Director Bob Rodgers said. “His character-based approach to coaching has helped shape young men who understand the importance of giving back and being positive role models. While we will miss his leadership of the football program, we are grateful that he will continue to serve our students in other capacities.”

Botelho led the Panthers to the Division 4 playoffs in 2022 as a No. 9 seed. The Panthers lost to Marblehead in the first round. Whitman-Hanson went in 12-39 overall during Botelho’s tenure.

Botelho will remain at the school as a special education teacher and will continue to coach both the winter and spring track teams, as well as the Unified sports program.

With the vacancy now official, the search for a new head football coach is expected to begin immediately. Rodgers stated in the school’s statement that a link will be posted for those interested in applying within the next few days to find a successor.