Former Lakeland High School offensive coordinator Xavier Scott was nominated for the Subway Standout Coach of the Year award presented by WAVY-10.

Scott was recognized for his coaching and impact on the community. For the past six years, Scott has been the offensive coordinator for Lakeland football under former coach Kevin Knight.

“It was very humbling, because I do what I do for the kids and not recognition,” Scott said of the nomination. “My calling is to be a light for these young people to allow them growth and development.”

Even though he won’t be coaching at Lakeland this year, Scott was a part of ups and downs in his time at Lakeland. Through six years, Lakeland went through some tough seasons, but the team also had its best season in school history, which came in 2016. During that season, the Cavaliers earned a trip to the Class 3 Region A playoffs and hosted a playoff game for the first time in school history. They also went on to play in the region championship game before their season ended. However, being the smallest school in the Southeastern District, it showed how talented that Lakeland team really was.

“That was an amazing journey,” Scott said. “We accomplished something that hadn’t been done in the school’s history. The kids deserved it. That season was monumental for Lakeland and for the city of Suffolk.”

Being a coach goes beyond just what is done on a field or court. It is also about what coaches are instilling into the young kids they come across they can use not only in their sport but also in life. Scott knows the importance of this and always keeps it in mind.

“That was always one of my goals,” he said. “Not to just teach football but to teach life lessons.”

The Lakeland football team is under a new direction now with Coach Joe Jones. However, Scott is more than grateful for the time he spent at Lakeland the past few years helping to push the program.

“The experience was a great one at Lakeland,” he said. “My gratitude goes out to everyone who was involved in the process. I’m truly grateful. We accomplished so much there and always wanted to find ways to elevate the program.”