Grage To Lead Vidalia Football

Courtesy of VHS

Vidalia has officially chosen its next head football coach—and it’s a name that brings both experience and excitement to the program. On Friday, the Vidalia City School Board of Education approved Zach Grage to lead the Indians into the 2026 season and beyond. The hire comes on the heels of Rodney Garvin’s resignation in November, after three years at the helm.

“This hire is about much more than football,” said Vidalia High School Athletic Director Tommy Dalley. “Coach Grage is a proven winner and program builder, but more importantly, he is the type of leader who will positively impact our entire Vidalia community.”

A veteran coach with two decades of experience, Grage began his career at Richmond Hill before joining the staff at Colquitt County. As offensive coordinator in 2014, he helped the Packers post an undefeated season and capture the 6A State Championship. That year, Grage’s offense racked up a state-record 687 points—an explosive display that still stands out in Georgia high school football history.

Grage’s ability to turn programs around became clear in 2016, when he took over a Thomasville team coming off a 1-8 campaign. Over six years as head coach, he led the Bulldogs to 53 wins, three region titles, and a playoff berth every season. Four of his teams advanced to at least the quarterfinals, and in 2021, Thomasville reached the state championship game. For the past three years, Grage has served as Athletic Director at Brooks County.

“My wife, Mandy, our three boys— Noah (14), Daniel (12), and Luke (10)—and I are all very excited about becoming a part of the Vidalia City School System!” Grage said. “We have prayed over this opportunity and un- continued from page

derstand the responsibility and expectations surrounding the entire football program.”

Dalley, who led the search committee that reviewed over 40 applications, emphasized that Grage “gets it” when it comes to leadership. “He understands the responsibility that comes with leading young men, and he will lead by example in the classroom, on the field, and in the community. We are excited to welcome Coach Grage, his wife, and their three boys to Vidalia and believe they will quickly become an important part of what makes this community special.”

Grage was introduced to the team on Friday, and he’s already focused on building a program that starts early and creates lasting relationships. “We will be present at the rec league, elementary schools, middle school, and high school, as we know the importance of developing the Indian bloodline,” said Grage. “We pride ourselves on pouring into the entire community and the entire athlete, and we will do our best to make Vidalia Football the class of Georgia! Go Indians!”