Travis Dockery
389 Country
After 17 remarkable years as head coach of the Hayesville High School Lady Yellow Jacket basketball team, Chad McClure has announced his resignation. McClure, who has guided the team through memorable seasons and built a legacy of success, reflected on his tenure with gratitude and a sense of fulfillment, saying, “I was blessed to have 17 years as the Head Girls Basketball Coach.” For the past six years, he juggled coaching two sports, a demanding role that made his decision to step aside a deeply considered one. “My dad always told me I would know when it was time,” McClure shared. “It was not an easy decision, but with lots of prayers, I knew it was time.”
McClure’s tenure was marked by standout moments, none more memorable than the 2013-14 and 2014-15 seasons. “We lost in the state semifinal game to Bishop and turned around the next season and beat them to end their state championship streak,” he recalled. That turnaround victory remains a defining highlight of his career, showcasing the resilience and determination he instilled in his players.
Reflecting on the program’s evolution over 17 years, McClure acknowledged the challenges and triumphs of leading a team with a storied history. “Some seasons were better than others,” he said, “but a base is built for the next coach to take it to greater heights.” Under his leadership, the Lady Yellow Jackets reached the state Final Four, won Smoky Mountain Conference championships, and claimed various tournament titles. McClure attributes this consistent success to a focus beyond the scoreboard. “To me, it’s not all about the wins and losses—don’t get me wrong, I like to win—but building relationships and helping them become a better, more confident person and preparing them for the battles of life,” he explained. He credited the dedication of his players, noting, “The keys to having great teams are players who commit to buying into the team vision, are willing to accept their roles, and do whatever it takes to help the team regardless of who gets the credit.”
McClure takes particular pride in the players who advanced to the college level, including Amanda Thompson and Meghan Taylor, who later joined his coaching staff. “They are the ones who put the work in and earned it,” he said humbly. “I am just glad I got to be a part of their journey. I am extremely proud of what they accomplished and what they continue to do for our community and student-athletes.”
Balancing coaching with family life posed the greatest challenge of his career, one he overcame with the unwavering support of his loved ones. “God blessed me with a great wife and kids who supported me along the way,” McClure said. “Without their support, it would have been impossible to make it work.”
The Hayesville community played a vital role in the team’s success, offering steadfast support throughout McClure’s tenure. “Community support is vital to any team, and Hayesville has some great fans,” he noted. That backing fueled the program’s achievements and fostered an environment where his players could thrive.
McClure hopes his players carry forward the lessons he emphasized: “Nothing is easy, and you have to work hard to be successful at anything.” He built his program on three pillars—commitment, courage, and character—values he believes are essential for success in basketball and beyond. “To be successful, you need to be committed to whatever you are doing, have courage to face any challenge, and always try to have great character,” he said.
To the next head coach of the Lady Yellow Jackets, McClure offered sage advice: “Put your stamp on the program, have a vision, ignore the critics, focus on building relationships, and enjoy the journey…it will go by fast.” His words reflect the wisdom gained from nearly two decades at the helm.
Adding a personal touch to his legacy, McClure followed in the footsteps of his father, a longtime coach of the same program. “Hard to accomplish all the things he did,” he admitted, “but I learned a lot from him and other coaches.” One particularly special moment came when his father joined him on the bench for a season. “That was cool!” McClure said with a smile.
As Chad McClure steps away, he leaves behind a program rooted in resilience, relationships, and a commitment to excellence—ready for its next chapter.
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