A longtime head football coach across the state and in Southwest Florida is calling it a career after 20 seasons.

Dale More, who for the last three seasons as been at the helm of Cape Coral High School’s football program and spent a decade coaching around the county, announced he’s stepping away from the game.

“I’ve had the great opportunity to learn from some intelligent, hard working and caring men who helped to guide me to become not only the coach but more importantly the person that I am today,” More said in a statement. “I would never had been on this path if it wasn’t for the leaders who guided me as a young man and showed me how influential coaches are to young people.”

He’s gracious for his longevity in the sport and is thankful for all of the experiences and bonds made along the way.

“To the athletes that I have had the great opportunity of coaching, from Orlando to the Panhandle of Florida and back here at home in Southwest Florida, I thank you,” More said. “You have influenced me, made me laugh, humbled me and make me proud every day.  You are the reason why I coached and it wasn’t that way in the beginning of my career, but very quickly because of you I realized that coaching isn’t about the sport, it’s about the people.  These are the lasting, joyful memories that I will keep in my heart.”

More finishes with a 7-21 overall record at Cape Coral and 14-44 all time.

He led a talented Seahawks squad in 2018 that started 5-0 before injuries to countless key players unhinged their playoff hopes and dropped their last five contests, missing the playoffs.

More also served as head coach at Cypress Lake and Immokalee, and spent time in different capacities in the Orlando and Panhandle areas.

He will continue to teach at Cape Coral High School and thanked his family for their support.

“I also want to thank my family, who have supported me, our coaches and players at every school we have been to and bring so much joy and happiness to my life,” More said.

— Connect with this reporter on Twitter: @haddad_cj