A Dang Good Rebel: Fannin’s Coach Cheatham Announces His Retirement

Chad Cheatham Retires as Fannin County Head Coach After Transformative Tenure

Blue Ridge, GA — Fannin County High School head football coach Chad Cheatham has officially announced his retirement, bringing an end to one of the most successful chapters in the history of Rebel football.

Cheatham, who took over the program in 2018, leaves behind a legacy defined by culture, competitiveness, and historic accomplishments. During his tenure, Fannin County captured three region championships, more than all previous head coaches in school history combined, and assembled a program that became a consistent playoff presence and a source of pride in the community.

In an interview reflecting on his decision, Cheatham said the choice came after recognizing the toll of nearly three decades in coaching.
“My body was physically tired and I was emotionally tired,” he said. “The fire was there, but it was harder to throw the wood in, if you know what I mean.”

Cheatham also emphasized the importance of shifting his focus back toward his family after years of demanding schedules and long seasons.
“It was time to pay back my wife, Katherine, and the rest of the family for the time they’ve invested,” he said.

He expressed peace with the timing of his retirement

While the decision marks the end of his coaching career, Cheatham expressed excitement for what comes next.
“I want to see the games we play from the other side,” he said with a laugh. “I’m looking forward to being a passenger in a car… listening to my wife and kids… and sleeping in — to at least 6:30 a.m.”

Under Cheatham’s guidance, Fannin County football underwent a complete transformation. He focused on building depth, discipline, and consistency, and he credited the program’s growth to the players, assistants, and community who embraced the vision. The results followed: playoff stability, rising attendance, and a reputation for being one of the toughest, most prepared teams in North Georgia.

As Fannin County begins the search for its next head coach, Cheatham leaves behind a sturdy foundation and a standard that will shape the program for years to come. His influence can be felt not only in wins and trophies, but in the relationships he formed and the culture he built.

Cheatham now looks forward to Friday nights in the stands rather than on the sideline, a well-earned next chapter for a coach who helped redefine Rebel football.