MAXWELL, CA (MPG) – In 2021, Lane Davis returned to his alma mater to take the reins of the Maxwell football program for a second tenure having last coached the Panthers in the mid-1980s.
However, this time around the goal was slightly different, yes, he wanted to win, but more importantly, he wanted to ensure that the proud tradition surrounding Maxwell football remained intact.
With the Panthers precariously close to dropping down to 8-man football or folding the program altogether, that meant increasing the numbers and bringing back a JV team.
Now six seasons later, having accomplished what he set out to do, Davis is handing over the program to a new generation of coaches.
“It’s time,” said Davis, who also coached the county youth football team to a 33-3 record and two championships in addition to putting in time as an assistant at Colusa High School to both Dave Driffill and Paul Theriault. “But I’m proud that I was able to get young men off the couch participating and being part of something.”
Davis also admits that at the start of his coaching career he was still competing as a high-level athlete himself which fueled his intensity, but that over time he came to realize that there was a greater purpose as he explained.
“I have definitely mellowed in intensity,” Davis said. “This process has helped me grow and I know that it’s bigger than the game. I will miss Friday nights and the adrenaline rush, but I will miss the kids the most. I have learned a great deal from them.”
For his dedication and accomplishments, he received a heartfelt tribute from Maxwell Unified School District Superintendent Summer Shadley, who in informing the Maxwell faithful that Davis was retiring wrote: “Coach Lane was blue and gold to the core. He was tough, intense and demanding, because he cared. Behind that strong exterior was a huge heart. He taught young men how to work hard, be accountable and show respect. He leaves behind more than a record, he leaves a legacy that includes a saved and strengthened program, a higher standard and generations of Panthers who will carry his lessons for life.”
From 2020-2025 Davis compiled an overall record of 37-25, while in the first two years of his early stint, his teams were 11-8 and back-to-back champions in the North Valley League.
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JC_DavisStepsDown- Maxwell football coach Lane Davis announced his retirement earlier this spring.