By Ali Moreland
The Washington County School Board met on Monday, July 13, to conduct regular business, including approving the naming of the football field at Philip Rountree Stadium, discussing the district’s recent school grade improvements, and reviewing upcoming back to school events.
The Washington County School Board approved naming the football field at Chipley High School’s Philip Rountree Stadium as Willard Whitcomb Field, honoring former head football coach Willard Whitcomb for his 15 years of service to the district. The naming was part of the consent agenda and approved unanimously along with other routine business. Following the vote, board members invited Whitcomb and his family to the front of the board room for recognition and photographs. Board members spoke about Whitcomb’s contributions to Washington County athletics and the impact he had on former players.
“Your family has meant a lot to this community, and we appreciate you,” Superintendent Thomas Register noted. “They don’t make them like you anymore, and I can’t think of a better man to name this field after.”
Board Chair, Will “Tonka” Taylor, who played for Whitcomb, said the coach’s influence extended beyond football.
“A good coach can change a game, but a great coach can change a life,” he said. “You’ve changed lives, and I’m just a fraction of what you’ve done, and it’s an honor to see this field named after you.”
Register mentioned that the board’s action marks the beginning of the recognition and that a formal ceremony is planned during a future home football game.
Reflecting on his years as a coach and watching his former players in the years since, Whitcomb told The News, “Seeing [the players] grow up and have a family of their own has been unique and special.”
In addition to approving the field naming, the board approved the remainder of its consent agenda, which included monthly financial reports and budget amendments, instructional software purchases, contracts for school health and therapy services, transportation purchases, curriculum materials, property disposal, and other agreements related to district operations for the 2026-27 school year.
The board discussed several upcoming district and community events, including the United Way “Stuff the Bus” school supply drive taking place on August 8 and other back-to-school activities.
The Washington County School Board will hold its next regular meeting on Monday, Aug. 10, at 5 p.m.
AMBER PATINO