Powhatan High School hires new varsity football coach

POWHATAN COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- Powhatan High School (PHS) just announced its new varsity head football coach.

In a press release on Wednesday, Feb. 5, the school said that George Bland, Jr. has been hired as the new varsity head football coach, in addition to taking on a teaching staff role. Bland will start his transition this spring and will officially join Powhatan County Public Schools on July 1.

The school spoke strongly of Bland's prior achievements, citing his 12 years of coaching experience in various roles -- specifically his time spent as Douglas Freeman High School's head coach, where he brought its varsity football team to a 35-17 overall record.

Additionally, Bland has an education and administration background as a social studies teacher and a co-owner of RockIT Sports, LLC, respectively.

In terms of Bland's attitude towards coaching, the school said that he supports "multi-sport participation" and advocates for diversified activities and training as a means to get student-athletes closer to "peak performance on the field."

"It is an incredible honor to step into this position and follow in the footsteps of two legendary coaches who have established such a strong tradition," Bland said. "I have the utmost respect for the foundation built by past Powhatan players and coaches, and I am committed to carrying that legacy forward while forging a new path for the future. Together, we will build on the past and aim for even greater success. Go Indians!"

Several school officials supported Bland's new role, including the principal of Douglas Freeman High School John Marshall, PHS' Director of Student Activities Chip Boone and PHS' principal Chris Sumner.