Silver Bluff High School is gearing up for a new era on the gridiron. The Aiken-based program has officially named its seventh head football coach in school history, tapping Lemuel Lackey to lead the Bulldogs into the upcoming season.

Lackey, who confirmed the move on May 12, arrives after a successful stint as head coach at Fox Creek High School in North Augusta since 2021. His coaching resume also includes a previous head coaching role at Evans High School, giving him a wealth of experience from both sides of the Savannah River.

The hiring was formalized during an Aiken County Public School District Board of Education meeting on May 12, signaling a fresh start for a program looking to build momentum. Lackey steps into the role following the departure of Matt Hayes, who left Silver Bluff on April 24 to join Strom Thurmond High School's athletic program—a move he announced via Facebook.

For fans and players alike, this change brings anticipation and energy. Lackey's track record at Fox Creek and Evans suggests a coach who values discipline and development, traits that could translate well to Silver Bluff's tradition-rich football culture. As the Bulldogs prepare for fall practice, all eyes will be on how the new head coach shapes the team's identity on and off the field.