Vidalia’s Godbee Named GHSA State Coach of the Year

Courtesy of VHS

Vidalia High School is celebrating a landmark achievement as Girls Track Coach Mandy Godbee has been named the GHSA State Girls’ Track Coach of the Year. This prestigious honor will be officially recognized at the State Football Championships at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 17, between the 3A and 6A games.

Coach Godbee’s impact on the Vidalia track program has been nothing short of transformative over her tenyear tenure. Under her leadership, the Vidalia girls’ team has captured two GHSA State Championships (2018 and 2025), and the boys’ team earned a state title in 2017 and a runner-up finish in 2016. In addition, her squads have clinched eight boys’ region championships and six girls’ region championships, cementing Vidalia’s reputation as a powerhouse in Georgia high school track.

Godbee’s influence extends beyond team titles. A former collegiate track athlete herself, she has helped eight student-athletes earn scholarships to continue their track careers at the next level. Among her standout protégés is Myesha Hall, a two-time All-American and Olympic Trials qualifier at Truett-McConnell.

Upon receiving the news, Godbee expressed deep gratitude but was quick to redirect the spotlight: “I feel both honored and humbled to share that I’ve been named the GHSA Girls Track and Field State Coach of the Year. While I appreciate the recognition, I have to admit: I don’t love the focus being on me. This was a major team effort—one built over years of dedication by an incredible staff and a group of athletes who give their all, day in and day out.”

Godbee emphasized that the honor belongs to the entire Vidalia track and field community, noting, “My first thoughts when I received this award were simple: This is truly a Coaching Staff of the Year award. It took the whole staff years to accomplish a state championship, alongside some of the hard-working and determined athletes I’ve ever had the privilege to coach. Coaches Derman Simmons, Lee Humphrey, Richard Williams, and Erica Palmer have poured countless hours into this program. They go way beyond the standard coaching duties for all our athletes. This award belongs to the team— I’m just the one lucky enough to accept it.”

She also expressed her gratitude for the support from the school administration, especially athletic director Tommy Dalley. “Coach Dalley is an excellent role model for other coaches at Vidalia High continued from page

School, as well as for me. He’s always available to lend an ear, offer advice, and cheer us on in both the best and the toughest of times. John Sharpe has also been a vital mentor and support for the past ten years, continually offering his guidance and wisdom throughout every season.”

Godbee concluded, “Ultimately, this honor is a reflection of the heart, drive, and unity of our entire Vidalia High School track and field community. It’s a privilege to be part of something this special, surrounded by people who inspire me every day.”

Coach Mandy Godbee’s dedication and leadership have not only shaped champions on the track but have also made a lasting impact on the lives of her students and the entire Vidalia community. The GHSA State Coach of the Year award is a fitting recognition of her remarkable journey and the legacy she continues to build at Vidalia High School.