WINTER HAVEN, Fla. – Winter Haven High School has named Corey Boatman as its new head football coach, moving quickly to fill the position just weeks before the start of the 2026 football season.
The announcement comes less than two days after former head coach White accepted another coaching opportunity, leaving the Blue Devils searching for new leadership just before preseason preparations ramp up.
In a message to the Winter Haven community, school officials acknowledged the unexpected change while expressing confidence in the program’s future.
“We know this has been a whirlwind 48 hours,” the announcement stated. “While we are disappointed in losing a head coach a few weeks before the start of the season, it is encouraging that our administration took swift action in making sure our program had a new leader ready to step up and take charge.”
Boatman, who has already been part of the Blue Devils coaching staff, said the transition will not change the expectations that have been set for the program.
“As many of you know by now, Coach White has accepted another opportunity. We appreciate everything he has done for our program and wish him nothing but success moving forward,” Boatman said.
“I want every one of you to hear this from me: our standard does not change. Our expectations do not change. Our goals do not change.”
Boatman said he already knows the team well after working alongside the players throughout the offseason.
“I’ve been in the trenches with you every day. I know this team, I know what we’re capable of, and I believe in every one of you,” he said.
He added that the focus of the program will continue to be centered on helping student-athletes succeed both on the field and beyond graduation.
“This program has always been about the players, and that will continue to be true. Every decision we make will be centered around putting you in the best position to succeed—not only this season, but in life and in your future after football.”
Boatman also emphasized continuity within the program.
“We’re not starting over. We’re moving forward,” he said. “Our coaching staff will continue working relentlessly to prepare you, develop you, and compete for championships.”
He encouraged players to remain united as the season approaches, saying, “Adversity doesn’t define great teams—how they respond does.”
