Mattawan, MI – After five seasons leading the Mattawan Wildcats football team, Matt Stephens has announced his resignation as head coach, marking the end of his tenure with the program. His decision comes after a challenging but rewarding period where he helped guide the team through both successes and setbacks.
Stephens, who took over the Mattawan football program in 2019, leaves behind a legacy of building a competitive team and fostering a strong sense of community and resilience among his players. Under his leadership, the Wildcats faced a number of highs, including memorable victories and significant growth for many of his athletes. However, the program also encountered challenges, particularly as Stephens dealt with the pressures of a highly competitive conference and balancing team development with personal and professional responsibilities.
In a statement released by the school district, Stephens expressed gratitude for the opportunity to coach and develop young athletes. “It has been an honor to serve as the head coach of the Mattawan football team. I’m incredibly proud of the hard work, dedication, and growth that we’ve seen as a program over these past five years. The players, coaches, and community have made this experience unforgettable, and I’m thankful for all the support throughout my time here,” said Stephens.
Stephens’ resignation follows a season in which Mattawan showed resilience despite facing tough competition in the district. The Wildcats’ season, which saw a mixture of close losses and wins, ended with a feeling of promise for the future. As part of his tenure, Stephens focused on developing not only skilled football players but also well-rounded individuals who excel both on the field and in their academic and personal lives.
His coaching philosophy emphasized character building, discipline, and a strong work ethic, and many players have spoken highly of the impact Stephens had on them, both as athletes and as people. Former players have shared testimonials of how Stephens’ mentorship extended beyond the football field, teaching life lessons and pushing them to reach their full potential.
The Mattawan football community is now left with the task of finding a successor who can build on the foundation Stephens established. The school district has not yet named an interim or permanent replacement, but the search is expected to begin soon. The district is committed to continuing the development of the football program and ensuring that the team remains a strong and competitive force in Michigan high school football.
As Stephens moves on to the next chapter of his career, his departure marks the end of an era for Mattawan football. His leadership, passion for the game, and commitment to his players will undoubtedly be remembered by the school, its athletes, and the entire community.
