Lee Doty Leads Panthers to State Title, Earns GeauxPreps Class 3A Coach of the Year

by: Vincent Cacioppo // GeauxPreps.com Managing Editor

Coach Lee Doty has been named the GeauxPreps Class 3A Coach of the Year after leading his team to an unforgettable state championship victory. In a season filled with challenges, Doty’s leadership proved instrumental as his Panthers overcame a rocky start and battled through a tough playoff field to claim the ultimate prize.

The Panthers’ season began with struggles, as they posted a 6-4 regular season record and started 2-3. Despite the early setbacks, Doty’s coaching staff and players stayed focused, and they finished strong, securing the #6 seed in the playoffs. Once in the postseason, the Panthers turned up the intensity.

Throughout the playoffs, Doty’s team averaged 47.6 points per game. But their success wasn’t only due to the offense; the Panthers’ defense was just as critical, holding opponents to 22.2 points per game in the postseason. The team battled through four tough rounds of playoffs, with key wins over Patterson, Lakeside, #3 Oak Grove, and Jena.

In the state championship game, Doty’s Panthers faced the daunting challenge of taking on the #1 seed St. James. Despite St. James’ dominance throughout the season, the Panthers rose to the occasion. In a back and forth contest, the Panthers claimed a 35-28 victory, securing their first state title since 2021 and solidifying their place as one of the best teams in Louisiana.

Lee Doty’s coaching excellence, his ability to rally his team after a tough start, and his strategic approach throughout the playoffs made him the deserving recipient of the GeauxPreps Class 3A Coach of the Year honor.