Steve Allen resigns after 5 seasons as DeLand High football coach, AD says

Steve Allen has stepped down as DeLand High's football coach, athletic director Lance Jenkins told The News-Journal on Friday, one week after the Bulldogs barely missed the Florida High School Athletic Association's playoffs.

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Allen sent a resignation to the school's principal, Dr. Melissa Carr, late Thursday evening, Jenkins said. He completed his fifth season in charge of the Bulldogs, posting a record of 25-20 — 4-4 in 2021 — with three playoff appearances.

"I hope for the best for him, and wish him luck in whatever he pursues," Jenkins said. "He had a wonderful relationship with the kids. He cared for them, and they cared for him in return."

In a phone interview Friday afternoon, Allen said, "They were going to fire me, and I didn't want to give them the satisfaction."

He wrote in his resignation letter: "I do understand and accept your desire to make a change with respect to me as your head football coach. I know that it is part of your job to do what you feel is in your best interest and that of DeLand High School.

"I am absolutely unregretful about anything that we have done in our program over the last 5 seasons; 100% of our players graduating, 25 student-athletes placed in college, 2-time two-county champions and providing the most stable leadership in 4 decades. I am also resolute as a professional to never be in a situation where I was not desired."

Including his tenures at Flagler Palm Coast and Warner Christian, Allen has 96 career wins as a head coach.

DeLand endured a tumultuous opening month of this season. Both of its first two games — rivalry showdowns with Mainland and University — were canceled due to coronavirus-related concerns. Neither contest was rescheduled.

Inclement weather and unplayable field conditions at Spec Martin Memorial Stadium spoiled a couple of additional Friday nights, most recently a Week 11 homecoming finale against Pine Ridge.

Jenkins plans to fill the vacancy by the first week of December, seeking a candidate that fits both the school and the community. DeLand projects to have a strong returning group of players, including offensive stars TJ Moore and Javon Ross — both of whom are currently sophomores.

"This is not only the school's football team, it's the city's," Jenkins said. "There is a lot to look forward to. Traditionally, there is a good talent pool that we can draw from. The kids play hard. Whoever the next person is will step into a good situation."