A Legacy Etched in Georgia Football
William "Buck" Godfrey, who led Southwest DeKalb High School from 1983 to 2012, is remembered not just for his wins but for the culture he built within the program.
During his 30‑year tenure he compiled a 273‑89‑1 record, captured two state titles and guided his teams to the playoffs in 27 of 30 seasons, a testament to sustained excellence.
His contributions earned him three inductions into Georgia’s sports halls of fame — the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame in 2023, the Georgia Athletic Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2014 and the Atlanta Sports Hall of Fame in 2010 — each recognizing his impact on the state’s athletic landscape.
In 2015 the DeKalb County School District honored him by renaming Panthersville Stadium to William "Buck" Godfrey Stadium, a permanent reminder of his service to the community.
Beyond the field, Godfrey was the father of Atlanta radio personality Rashan Ali, linking his family’s influence to both sports and media in the region.
Though he is no longer on the sidelines, his legacy continues to inspire players, coaches and fans who see in his career a model of dedication, resilience and community pride.