McIntosh High School welcomed Iyante Price as a new football coach this year. The 25-year-old former athlete and strength coach started his first year at McIntosh in Aug. 2025.
“I came here for a football interview and Coach [Jonathan] Black was my coach in high school. That played a big part in my decision [to come here],” Price said.
Price played tight end and defensive end at Paulding County High School, his passion for football began in strength conditioning and weight room coaching.
“I just enjoy football. I watch it on every level. You’ve got to have a passion for it,” Price said.
His focus for the team goes beyond wins and losses.
“Winning’s not the main focus. I want [players] to grow as people and men. I want them to learn time management, responsibility and accountability,” Price said.
He added that one of the most important lessons is learning from mistakes early in life.
“I made a lot of mistakes. You’ve got to learn from them and move forward,” Price said.
The coach described his first impression of McIntosh as positive, praising the staff and students.
“The staff’s wonderful. The students are respectful. You’ve just got to give respect to get respect,” Price said.
(Anja Jovanovska)
When asked about memorable moments from his own football career, he recalled his senior year win against Black’s team that secured a playoff spot, and working with future Super Bowl players Jordan Davis and Nolan Smith as a strength and conditioning coach.
“It was emotional. That was the last game of the season, and we won to make the playoffs,” Price said.
Looking back on his time in the game, Price emphasized the importance of leaving a lasting legacy beyond wins and losses.
“I just want to be remembered for making a positive impact on people,” Price said.
