HAMPTON, Va. — When Mike Smith took over as head coach at Hampton High School, Richard Nixon was president of the United States in 1970. Fifty-one years later, he leaves the game as the third winningest coach nationally with a record of 506-99-2. Smith announcing Thursday afternoon he'll be stepping down as head coach of the storied program. The Crabbers have won 12 state titles. His reason for leaving, lack of mobility. "I've got two torn hamstrings. I just can't get around in the areas to coach and be affective."
Smith's wife of 41 years, Lisa, said they've had their converstions. "We've talked about it for awhile", she said. "It was just time."
Smith has had countless former players move on to the college ranks and later in the NFL. Most recently with wide receiver, Dazz Newsome (North Carolina/Chicago Bears) and before him former NFL player, Ronald Curry to current quarterback, Tyrod Taylor of the Houston Texans, Elton Brown (Cardinals), Marques Hagans (Rams), and Hall Of Famer, Dwight Stevenson (Dolphins).
The 80 year old posted a 9-2 record during his final season with Hampton, losing to Warhill in the Class 4 Region A semifinals. It was the 46th time he led them to the playoffs.