Dunwoody, October 6, 2025
News Summary
The Dunwoody community is mourning the loss of former Dunwoody High School football coach Mike Nash, who contributed greatly to the Wildcats football program. At 51, he passed away after an emergency surgery due to liver failure. Nash transformed the team from 17 players to achieving playoff success. His legacy as a mentor and leader is remembered fondly by players and community members, prompting tributes and gatherings in his honor.
Dunwoody community members are mourning the passing of former Dunwoody High School football coach Mike Nash, who died on October 3 at the age of 51. His death followed an emergency surgery after battling liver failure.
Nash had a significant impact on the Dunwoody Wildcats football program, serving as its head coach from 2015 until 2024. Under his leadership, the team grew from just 17 players in 2015 to achieving its first playoff berth in over a decade in 2023, marking a turning point in the program’s history. He announced his resignation on February 25, 2024, after securing back-to-back playoff appearances.
In March 2025, Nash received recognition at a Dunwoody Homeowners Association meeting, where he was honored as the grand marshal for the upcoming 4th of July Parade. His coaching style focused on instilling family values in his players, and he built strong relationships with both the athletes and their families, earning a reputation as a mentor, leader, and friend.
The news of Nash’s passing led to an outpouring of grief among players and community members, who gathered on October 4 to honor his life and contributions. The official Dunwoody Wildcats Football Facebook page announced his passing and emphasized that his legacy would continue to resonate within the community.
After leaving Dunwoody High School, Nash moved to Chattahoochee County High School as its head coach in February 2025. This transition was motivated by his desire to be closer to his granddaughter while continuing his coaching career. A native of Atlanta, Nash graduated from Shiloh High School in Snellville, where he also made a significant impact on student-athletes, as acknowledged by a statement from Shiloh Athletics.
Nash had been a resident of Dunwoody North for several years and was connected to the Dunwoody North Driving Club. His influence as a coach extended far beyond football, leaving a lasting imprint on the lives of countless players and their families.
Funeral and memorial plans had not been announced at the time of this reporting. Community discussions continue about how best to honor Nash’s memory and commitment to youth sports in Dunwoody.
FAQ
When did Mike Nash pass away?
Mike Nash passed away on October 3 at the age of 51.
What caused Mike Nash’s death?
Nash died following an emergency surgery after battling liver failure.
How long did Nash serve as head coach of Dunwoody High School football?
Nash served as the head coach of the Dunwoody Wildcats for over a decade, from 2015 until 2024.
What were some of Nash’s accomplishments as head coach?
During his tenure, he built the football program from 17 players in 2015 to leading the team to its first playoff berth in over a decade in 2023.
When did Nash resign as head coach?
Nash announced his resignation on February 25, 2024, after securing back-to-back playoff appearances.
What recognition did Nash receive posthumously?
In March 2025, he was honored at a Dunwoody Homeowners Association meeting and named the grand marshal for the upcoming 4th of July Parade.
What was the community’s reaction to Nash’s passing?
Nash’s death was met with mourning among players and community members who gathered to honor his life on October 4.
What were Nash’s connections to Chattahoochee County High School and Shiloh High School?
Nash moved to Chattahoochee County High School as its head coach in February 2025 and received recognition for his influence on student-athletes during his time at both Shiloh and Dunwoody High Schools.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Nash’s Age at Passing | 51 |
| Death Date | October 3 |
| Duration as Head Coach | 2015 – 2024 |
| First Playoff Berth Achieved | 2023 |
| First Year of Coaching at Dunwoody | 2015 |
| Year of Resignation | 2024 |
| Grand Marshal Recognition | March 2025 |
| Community Gathering | October 4 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Dunwoody Community Remembers Former Football Coach
Additional Resources
- Appen Media
- Wikipedia: High school football
- Atlanta News First
- Google Search: Mike Nash
- Fox 5 Atlanta
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football (sport)
- Rough Draft Atlanta
- Google News: Mike Nash coach
- WSB TV
- Score Atlanta
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