Longtime Kansas high school football coach announces decision to step down

A legend in Kansas high school football coaching circles is hanging up his whistle.

On Wednesday, Olathe North (Kan.) announced that head coach Chris McCartney was stepping down from the program after nearly 30 years. McCartney joined Olathe North in 1996 as an assistant coach and served as a position coach, defensive coordinator, and ultimately head coach.

“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as the head coach of this great organization, and I will always cherish the memories,” he wrote in a press release announcing his decision. “I love the Olathe North community and appreciate all of the support you have provided us. The Olathe North Eagle Family has been a huge part in helping us achieve success during the last 30 years. Let’s go Eagles!!”

He was on staff during one of the most dominant runs in state history, with North winning eight state titles between 1996-2009. In 2015, McCartney replaced legendary head coach Gene Wier, who joined the University of Kansas coaching staff.

Four years after taking over, McCartney led North to the Kansas 6A championship game and also took the Eagles to the semifinals four other times. Across more than a decade as the head coach, he finished with a 79-31 record and won the Sunflower League on multiple occasions. McCartney also helped to develop a pair of future NFL players: 2016 first-round draft pick Isaiah Simmons (Arizona) and 2025 third-round pick Jacob Parrish (Tampa Bay).

“I appreciate everything that Coach McCartney has done for our football program over the years. Coach McCartney has been in the trenches at North for three decades molding young men into leaders,” wrote athletic director Josh Price. “During his time on staff, he has been part of some of the greatest football teams not only in Olathe North history but in Kansas state history as well. I personally want to thank Coach Mac for his long-time commitment and dedication to the Olathe North Eagle Football Family.”

A search is already underway for his replacement.

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