Dorchester athletic director Michael Nelson really likes his coaching staff
The only new head coach is Lee Blakely with volleyball
St. George – The athletic teams have done a good bit of winning at Dorchester Academy in recent years. However, what impresses Raiders athletic director Michael Nelson with his coaching staff goes beyond the win-loss column.
“One of the things I’m most proud of is the quality of coaches we have across our athletic department,” Nelson said. “They’re dedicated to serving our students, building relationships and creating a positive experience while competing at a high level. Our coaches genuinely care about helping kids grow in athletics, academics and character.”
Dorchester returns all but one of its head coaches from a year ago. The only newcomer is volleyball head coach Lee Blakely.
The Raiders return two head coaches who led their teams to state titles last year. Callie McClure led the girls basketball team to the SCISA AA state title, while Brent Jackson guided the baseball team to the AA state title.
Dorchester won its first girls basketball title since 2017, that too coming under McClure. The Raiders defeated Cross Schools 39-37 in overtime to win the crown. The baseball team only had a 13-15 record, but they beat defending state champion Lee Academy in three games to win the crown.
Nelson is back for his fourth season in charge of football. Dorchester went 9-2 last year, losing in the semifinals. He has Lance Brownlee, Nick Chinners and Larry Windham returning to his coaching staff.
“I’m excited about the group of coaches we have,” Nelson said. “We have good people who care about our student-athletes, work extremely hard and bring a lot of knowledge and energy ever day. Our goal is to build a program that develops young men both on and off the field, and I believe this staff is committed to that mission.”
Justin McClure will be back for his third year as the softball head coach. After playing for the state championship in 2025, the Raiders came up short this past year, losing in the championship round of their bracket in the AA state tournament.
“I think we had a successful season overall, but all of us are disappointed that we did not end the year with a championship,” McClure said. “That was the ultimate goal and will be again next season.”
Dorchester had three players selected to the SCISA All-State team in Emery McClure, Kinsey Bates and Molly Blanchard.
Nick McAlhany returns as the boys basketball head coach. He guided the Raiders to a 17-13 record, going 1-1 in the state tournament.
