Lee Hedges: High school coaching legend dies at 93

The world of high school football has lost a coaching legend as Junior Lee Hedges passed away at the age of 93. With an impressive record of 217 victories, he held the title of the high school football coach with the most wins in the history of Shreveport-Bossier City in northwestern Louisiana.

The impact of Lee Hedges’ coaching prowess extended far beyond the football field. His ability to inspire and shape the lives of young athletes is evident in the heartfelt tribute shared by Jimmy Martin, one of his former players at Captain Shreve High School. Martin expressed his deep gratitude for the influence of Lee Hedges, stating that many people credit him for who they are today. The loss of this great man is keenly felt by those who had the privilege of being mentored by him.

Lee Hedges’ journey in football began as a standout athlete at Fair Park in the late 1940s and early 1950s. He excelled in both football and baseball during his time at Louisiana State University (LSU). However, it was as a high school football coach that he found his true calling. Starting at Byrd High School, where he led the Yellow Jackets to the state championship game in his very first season, Hedges continued to make his mark at Woodlawn High School. There, he guided the team to the state title game in 1965, with future NFL Hall of Famer Terry Bradshaw as his quarterback.

Lee Hedges later found his final coaching home at Captain Shreve High School. It was there that he achieved the ultimate success, leading the Gators to a state championship in 1973 and orchestrating a remarkable 24-game winning streak spanning the 1973 and 1974 seasons. His impact as a coach was further underscored by the fact that he is the only coach in Louisiana history to lead three different schools to a state championship game.

Beyond his coaching achievements, Lee Hedges was a man of character and humility. Despite his significant contributions to the sport, he always remained grounded and self-effacing. His bond with Terry Bradshaw, whom he coached at Woodlawn, remained strong throughout the years. Hedges had the honor of presenting Bradshaw during his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s “Hometown Hall of Fame” in 2013, where their enduring connection was evident.

Lee Hedges was a devoted husband, having shared 58 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Nell, until her passing in 2013. Their partnership was a testament to love and commitment, providing a solid foundation for their family.

In recognition of his immense contributions, the Caddo Parish School Board approved the renaming of Caddo Parish Stadium on Captain Shreve High School’s campus to Lee Hedges Stadium in 2001. This permanent tribute highlighted the lasting impact he had on the school and the community. During a halftime ceremony, former players had the honor of carrying Lee Hedges off the field, a poignant and fitting tribute to his remarkable coaching legacy.

The passing of Lee Hedges leaves a void in the world of high school football. His influence as a coach, mentor, and role model will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come. His impact on the lives of those he touched extends far beyond the victories on the field, and his legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of his players, colleagues, and the community he served with unwavering dedication and humility.