Don Farley, who has guided West Point to five playoff appearances en route to becoming the program’s all-time winningest coach, will step down when his 11th season with the Warriors comes to a close later this year.

Farley announced his decision to players and coaches on Monday.

“I’m so appreciative of the administration, both current and previous,” said Farley, who will stay on as the school’s athletic director. “I also want to thank my wife and family for supporting this dream for the past 26 years. I’m so grateful for all of the assistant coaches I got to work with as well. I have learned so much from each of them. Coach (Phillip) Miller has been a great friend and co-worker who has been with me since Day One.

“I also want to thank the booster club and officers through the years. They have really worked well with me and our staff to accomplish many positive improvements to our facilities and within the program. 

“Lastly, I want to thank all the current and former players. Without their dedication and pride, we would not have been able to accomplish the many things we worked for over the years.”

Farley took over the program back in 2013 after serving as defensive coordinator for four seasons under previous head coach A.J. Lamar.

After a 4-6 start, Farley led West Point to four straight winning seasons — each of those culminating with playoff berths — and 16-10 region record.

And while the Warriors haven’t quite found that measure of success over the past few seasons — just one postseason appearance — they’ve been just one win away from reaching the playoffs in three other campaigns (2019, 2021 and 2022).

Additionally, West Point has landed nine players on the Alabama Sports Writers Association’s All-State Football Team during Farley’s tenure.

Farley was also able to coach his sons, Bryant and Brandon, both of whom joined his staff in the years that followed.

He is currently 53-60 with the Maroon and White.

“I’ve been part of West Point football more than half my life,” he said. “I started as a young volunteer assistant under coach (Ed) Oaks before eventually working with coach (Michael) Simmons and coach Lamar. I’ve learned so much through the years. It’s been 26 years not missing a West Point football game on Friday night.”

While Farley didn’t rule out a return to coaching — “I’ll see what direction the Lord leads me” — he could very well be on the headset just twice more in his career.

Though, he hopes for some success in the coming weeks.

The Warriors play East Limestone this Friday night and need a win over Brewer next week to reach the postseason — something Farley said his players are working as hard as they can toward achieving.