In nine seasons Danehower and the Lady Jags posted an overall record of 164-76 (68 percent) and 79-31 (71 percent) in conference play. The 165 wins is just over half of the programs total (310) in 30 plus years of existence.
During Danehower’s tenure, the Lady Jags won three conference titles, two conference tournament championships, one sectional championship, advanced to two other sectional finals and two sectional semi-finals. Before Danehower took the job in 2001, the Lady Jags had been through three coaches in four seasons and posted a dismal 14-71 record during that time. To that date the program had a total of four winning seasons and three playoff appearances.
Leaving the program to move to Cleveland was a tough decision for Danehower, but he says the right one.
“This was a very difficult decision for me and my wife. In the midst of the decision making process it became clear to me that this was a direction I wanted my career to take,” said Danehower. “Each time I met with Principal Meredith my direction become more evident.”
He is also grateful for the time he spent at Athens.
“I want to thank the students, parents and teachers at Athens for their support of our program over these nine years,” he said. “We have been blessed to have such wonderful people in and around our program. They are as much a part of our success as anyone. But mostly I would like to thank the players who have poured their hearts into our program. Without their dedication we could not have become one!”
Before Coach “D” arrived on the scene in West Raleigh, he spent two seasons at Eastern Illinois University and one season at The University of Findlay as a graduate assistant. While at EIU, Danehower served as graduate assistant coach and earned a master’s degree in athletic administration in May 2001. Danehower served one season as the recruiting coordinator at the University of Findlay where the Lady Oilers advanced to the NAIA National Tournament during a 27-5 campaign that saw forward Mianda Watts named NAIA Kodak All- American.
Danehower’s coaching career began as a student-assistant for the late Naismith Hall of Fame coach Kay Yow at NC State. During his two years with NC State, the Wolfpack women posted a record of 44-19 while advancing to the NCAA tournament both season including a trip to the Final Four in 1998.
“The encouragement and lessons learned while I was associated with Coach Yow has been one key to my success,” said Danehower.
In addition to coaching basketball, Danehower will work as a Technology Facilitator and will begin the school’s Marketing Education program. Cleveland High will open to students this fall.
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