Wildwood Middle High School has announced a leadership change in their football program. Coach Lorenzo Fields has officially stepped down as head coach of the Wildwood Wildcats Football Team.

“We thank Coach Fields for his time, effort, and dedication to our student-athletes and the greater Wildwood community,” the school announced. “His passion for the game and the personal development of our players has left a lasting impact, and we wish him all the best in the next chapter of his career.”

As one chapter closes, another begins. Wildwood is thrilled to welcome Coach Rhett Caruthers as the new Head Football Coach of the Wildwood Wildcats.

Coach Caruthers is a 7th-generation native of Sumter County. Football is more than a game for Coach Caruthers. He believes in creating a program that not only builds athletes but shapes responsible, respectful young men prepared for life beyond the field.

(Coach Rhett Caruthers takes over the Wildwood Middle High football program in 2025.)

He is married to Kristin Caruthers (Hinkle), a graduate of Wildwood High School and former Wildcat cheerleader. Together, they are raising four children—two sons and two daughters—who are already growing up immersed in the values of faith, family and football.

Coach Caruthers has spent many years volunteering and coaching in local youth football programs, including Pop Warner, where he has mentored young athletes and helped instill the fundamentals of both the sport and sportsmanship.

Wildwood Middle High is coming off a 5-7 season and a trip to the FHSAA Class Rural Quarterfinal appearance last year. Congratulations to coach Caruthers on this opportunity. Wildwood will start the 2025 season in a few weeks on their brand new artificial turf football field, the third and final Sumter County High School to install it.