East Rockingham High School has named Dontae’ Gholson as its interim head football coach for the 2026 season, filling the vacancy left by Drew Spitzer after his four‑year tenure.
A coach with deep roots
Gholson first joined the school staff in 2024, initially serving as the running backs coach before taking on responsibilities with the junior varsity squad. His early involvement gave him an intimate understanding of the program’s culture and expectations.
Principal Marc Sweigart praised Gholson’s positive attitude, strong leadership and commitment to the school community, saying those qualities made him an excellent choice to guide the team during the transition.
A Dinwiddie High School graduate, Gholson was a three‑sport athlete who excelled in football, basketball and baseball before continuing his basketball career at Bluefield University.
Looking ahead
With Gholson at the helm, the school hopes to maintain continuity while developing its players both on and off the field. The interim appointment provides a platform for him to demonstrate his coaching philosophy and to build on the foundation laid by his predecessors.