HARLAN, KY – The “Green Dragon” roar is about to get a lot louder.
Harlan High School is proud to announce Frank Shope as the new Head Coach of the Green Dragon Football program.
A veteran leader and one of the most accomplished athletes in school history, Coach Shope brings a deep passion for Harlan football and a strong commitment to student-athlete development. A standout player for the Green Dragons in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Shope earned All-State honors before continuing his football career at the University of the Cumberlands, where he went on to earn All-American recognition.
“Coach Shope isn’t just a coach — he’s a Green Dragon to his core,” said Athletic Director Tiffany Hamm Rowe. “His deep roots in this school and program, combined with his coaching and playing experience, make him the perfect person to mentor our student-athletes and continue building upon our proud football tradition.”
Harlan High School Principal Mike Bolton also expressed excitement about the hire.
“Coach Shope bleeds green, and his connection to Harlan High School goes far beyond football,” said Bolton. “He has served our program as both a player and assistant coach, and over the last several years, I’ve watched him lead our elementary and middle school programs with passion, discipline, and integrity.
“He truly has a gift for teaching the game and developing young people. Coach Shope will challenge our players to be their very best, but more importantly, he will help shape them into better husbands, fathers, and men. We strive to provide our student-athletes with the very best leadership possible, and I believe Frank Shope is exactly the right person to lead this program forward.”
Coach Shope’s experience, leadership, and commitment to Harlan football made him the clear choice to lead the Green Dragons into the future. With Coach Shope at the helm, Harlan High School is excited for the next chapter of Green Dragon football and the impact he will continue to make on students and the community.