Philip Haywood, the most successful coach in Kentucky high school football history, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 73. After suffering severe injuries in a car crash in Pike County on Saturday morning, he was sent to UK Healthcare, where he succumbed to his injuries. ([EssentiallySports](https://www.essentiallysports.com/ncaa-college-football-news-legendary-football-figure-who-coached-for-fifty-seasons-dies-in-car-crash-as-emotional-tributes-pour-in-philip-haywood/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
During his 50 seasons as a coach at Belfry High School, he amassed a 491-62 record, which was the most in their history. In addition, Haywood had six state runners-up and eight KHSAA state titles. ([EssentiallySports](https://www.essentiallysports.com/ncaa-college-football-news-legendary-football-figure-who-coached-for-fifty-seasons-dies-in-car-crash-as-emotional-tributes-pour-in-philip-haywood/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
In 1972, Haywood began his coaching career as a youthful assistant to Roy Walton at Tates Creek High School. Before moving to Prestonsburg in 1975, he spent the following two years working as an assistant at Meade County. He excelled at Belfry High School, where he won four straight Class 3A titles between 2013 and 2016. ([EssentiallySports](https://www.essentiallysports.com/ncaa-college-football-news-legendary-football-figure-who-coached-for-fifty-seasons-dies-in-car-crash-as-emotional-tributes-pour-in-philip-haywood/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Freddie Bowling, the Pike County Schools director, said, “It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of Coach Haywood, whose legacy goes far beyond his record. Known for his integrity, Christian values, leadership, and kindness, he touched the lives of countless players, coaches, and communities.” ([EssentiallySports](https://www.essentiallysports.com/ncaa-college-football-news-legendary-football-figure-who-coached-for-fifty-seasons-dies-in-car-crash-as-emotional-tributes-pour-in-philip-haywood/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
The football community is mourning the loss of a legendary figure who made a lasting impact on high school football in Eastern Kentucky.
