Clark-Shawnee Local School District welcomes Mr. Robert DeLong as the next Varsity Head Football Coach for the Shawnee Braves. With 39 years of coaching and teaching experience, DeLong will bring a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and dedication to helping student-athletes grow both on and off the field.
DeLong is a familiar face to the Clark-Shawnee community, teaching science courses at Shawnee High School since 2018. During his seven years with the district, DeLong has been on the sidelines on Friday nights as a Varsity Football Assistant Coach.
“I believe football is a great tool for developing young people. While I love all sports, football offers a unique opportunity to shape lives and instill discipline, teamwork, and character,” said DeLong. “I’m honored to step into this role and build on the tradition of excellence that Coach Meeks established here.”
He began his coaching career in baseball in 1987 as a graduate assistant at Wright State University, where he helped guide the Raiders to a Division II National Runner-Up. As a player at Wright State, DeLong earned three varsity letters and participated in three NCAA tournaments. DeLong’s coaching legacy spans multiple high schools, including Toledo Start, Fairborn, Tecumseh, Xenia, and Shawnee High Schools, where he has coached football, girls' basketball, baseball, and track and field.
“Coach DeLong is well respected by the players, staff, and community,” said Athletic Director Steve Tincher. “His understanding of the game and connection to the Clark-Shawnee community will help continue the tradition set over the last 22 years by Coach Meeks. His demeanor and care for the players will be a great fit for the Shawnee football program.”
In addition to his coaching accomplishments, DeLong has had a significant impact as an educator, teaching courses in Physics, Chemistry, Geology, Biology, Meteorology, and Astronomy. He has also taught undergraduate-level courses in Geology and Water Resource Management. His passion for both teaching and coaching is evident in his dedication to education and mentoring students.
DeLong’s move to Clark-Shawnee holds a special meaning for him. After the loss of his daughter eight years ago, Coach Meeks and the Shawnee community played a pivotal role in helping him through that difficult time. "Coach Meeks was a valued member of my coaching staff at Tecumseh, and it was through his support that I found my way to Shawnee during that challenging period," DeLong shared. "I’m incredibly grateful to Coach Meeks, Mrs. Meeks, and the entire Shawnee community. The support I’ve received here, from the school and these students, has been invaluable. I feel a deep responsibility to continue building not just athletes, but young men of character, and to honor the legacy of excellence Coach Meeks has left behind."
DeLong is committed to upholding the high standards and legacy of Shawnee football and to providing the players with the tools they need to succeed both on the field and in life. With his wealth of experience, strong values, and deep connection to the Shawnee community, Coach DeLong is ready to lead the Braves.
