James Clemens Head Football Coach Chad McGehee Announces Retirement

MADISON, AL – Chad McGehee, head coach of James Clemens High School’s football program, announced his retirement on Thursday morning.

During his four seasons at the helm of the Tennessee Valley program, the Gadsden native led the Jets to a 27-16 record, securing playoff appearances in three of his four seasons. Under his leadership, James Clemens excelled in Class 7A, Region 4, posting a 22-6 mark in region play.  The Jets closed out their 2024 campaign in 6-5, falling to defending state champion Central-Phenix City in the first round of the AHSAA Class 7A postseason.

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Before taking over the James Clemens program in 2021, McGehee served as the defensive coordinator at powerhouse Hoover.  Earlier in his career he spent time in Georgia with assistant coaching stints at Grayson, North Paulding, Parkview and North Cobb high schools.  

His first head coaching stop was a two year stint at Elkmont.  He lead the Class 3A Red Devils to a combined 9-11 record from 2005 to 2006.  

McGehee’s career head coaching record stands at 36-27 including a 28-14 run in region play, three playoff appearances and a pair of region titles over six seasons.