CLERMONT, Fla. — After seven seasons at the helm of South Lake High School’s boys basketball program, head coach Stephen McLeod is stepping down, leaving behind a legacy of stability, success, and lasting impact on the program and its players.

McLeod took over a struggling South Lake High program in 2017, inheriting a team that had gone 5-15 the previous season and had 9 straight losing seasons. Under his leadership, South Lake quickly turned the corner, posting seven consecutive winning seasons. His most successful campaign came in 2021-22 when the Eagles finished with a 16-8 record and secured a district championship. He departs with a career record of 98-76, and with lasting memories of the positive impacts he made on players lives and the school.

(“I have had so many joys these last seven years coaching South Lake but the friendships made along the way mean the most to me.”)

Before McLeod’s arrival, South Lake had seen four head coaches in a span of five years. His tenure provided much-needed stability, allowing the program to build a strong culture both on and off the court. That culture was on full display during his final game, as former players, coaches, and parents gathered to honor and thank him for his contributions.

“I love South Lake High school, our administration, our athletic department and all those associated with the school. A huge thank you to Steve Benson, Travis Alderink, Mandy Shafer, Bobby Rego, Debi Smith, Leroy Oliver, Thom Kobylarczyk and all the coaches of other sports at South Lake that supported us as well.” said Stephen McLeoud in a social media post. “My thanks is never ending. I can’t thank my coaches (Todd McLeod, Lou DeBenedittis, Julian Borrero, Mikey McLeod, Chad Roy, Don Lucas, Frank Johnson) enough. They have worked so hard to take South Lake from 9 straight losing seasons to 7 straight winning seasons with a district championship. They all own a piece of this. Mostly I want to thank my beautiful wife and kids for supporting me chasing this coaching dream! What a ride!” said coach McLeod.

(McLeod was very thankful for his time at South Lake wich included seven straight winning seasons and also included a district championship.)

Beyond the wins and losses, McLeod’s influence extended into the lives of the student-athletes he mentored. He instilled discipline, teamwork, and a love for the game that resonated throughout the South Lake and Groveland community. His leadership was a family affair—his wife and sister-in-law ran the concession stand at every home game, while his brother, brother-in-law, and son all served as assistant coaches.

“Coach McLeod has meant so much to South Lake High School,” said Travis Alderink the South Lake High athletic director. “He is professional, generous, kind, and a great student of the game. His leadership and wisdom have been invaluable.” Alderink would go on to say “On a personal note I’ve had the privilage of working alongside Coach McLeod and witnessed his leadership first hand. He has been a constant source of wisdom.

I asked coach McLeod why now was the time to step down and he says “I have six children that are all college aged. My kids have asked me to go with them to events and I’ve had to say no due to basketball practice and games. I just don’t want to say no anymore. To be successful in Florida High School basketball it’s a year round job honestly. My wife and kids have made huge sacrifices the last seven years letting me chase my coaching dream. I want to thank all our coaches and players who made the program what it is today,” says McLeod.

(Coach McLeod meant a lot to the South Lake High program over the years turning the team back into a contender.)

Though McLeod will no longer patrol the sidelines, his impact on South Lake basketball will be felt for years to come. His dedication to shaping young athletes into not only better players but better people has left an indelible mark on the program. As he steps away, the South Lake community remains grateful for his unwavering commitment and leadership these past seven years.

“Thank you, Coach McLeod, for everything you have given to our program and athletes,” says Alderink. “Your legacy will live on in the heart and soul of South Lake basketball.”