Unexpected Departure: Why Did Chet Saum Really Step Down as Amanda-Clearcreek Football Coach?

Big changes are underway at Amanda-Clearcreek as Chet Saum steps down after guiding the Aces for three seasons. His decision, announced on Monday, November 24, signals the close of a significant chapter in the school’s football saga. Saum’s commitment wasn’t just about X’s and O’s — he led the team to consecutive playoff appearances, ending his tenure with a 14-18 record while preparing to focus on expanding his family farm. It’s a bittersweet moment for the community and the program, which is rooted deeply in tradition and pride. The search is now on for the next leader to carry that torch forward and keep the momentum rolling. LEARN MORE

AMANDA — The Chet Saum era as head football coach is over at Amanda-Clearcreek after he announced his resignation Monday, Nov. 24.

The Amanda-Clearcreek High School Athletic Department announced that Varsity Football Coach Chet Saum has chosen to step down from his position after three seasons leading the Aces.

Saum’s decision comes as he prepares to dedicate more time to the growth and expansion of his family farm. During his three-year tenure, Saum compiled a 14–18 record and guided the Aces to back-to-back playoff appearances.

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Chet Saum announced his resignation after three years as the head football coach at Amanda-Clearcreek. He compiled a 14-18 record with the Aces.

“Amanda-Clearcreek Football is built on tradition, pride and community,” Athletic Director Tony Williams said. “We greatly appreciate Coach Saum’s dedication to the program and tradition of Amanda-Clearcreek Football. Coach Saum’s leadership was the driving force behind the Aces’ return to playoff football. We wish Coach Saum all the best in the future.”

Saum is a 2012 graduate of Amanda-Clearcreek High School, where he was a three-year varsity letterman in football and track. In his first season as head coach, the Aces finished with a 3-7 mark in 2023. His best year came during his second season when Amanda-Clearcreek went 6-4 during the regular season and qualified for the Division V playoffs. The Aces lost to Portsmouth 35-16, and this past year the Aces finished 5-6 overall and once again lost to Portsmouth in the playoffs, falling 32-13.

The Athletic Department will begin an extensive search to identify the next head coach who will continue to uphold the values of the Amanda-Clearcreek Football Program and guide the team into its next chapter.

Saum expressed gratitude for his time with the Aces and appreciation for the players, staff and community who have supported him and the program throughout his tenure.

Further updates regarding the coaching search will be shared as they become available. Media Contact: Amanda-Clearcreek Athletic Department Tony Williams, Athletic Director: 740-969-7250 (Office Phone) [email protected] (Email).

Tom Wilson is a sports reporter for the Lancaster Eagle-Gazette. Contact him at 740-689-5150 or via email at [email protected] for comments or story tips. Follow him on X at twil2323.

This article originally appeared on Lancaster Eagle-Gazette: Chet Saum announces resignation as Amanda-Clearcreek football coach