Published 7:52 am Tuesday, October 27, 2026 Joe Wilson, known as the Silver-Haired Fox, served as head football coach at Lowndes County High School from 1976 to 1988. Originally from Pinehurst, Georgia, and previously the offensive coordinator under Valdosta High School’s Coach Nick Hyder, Coach Wilson transformed the program, compiling a 95-49 record, winning two regional championships, and capturing the coveted State Championship. Coach Wilson is pictured with his coaching staff in 1980, the year of their first State Championship. During a Lowndes Touchdown Club meeting, Coach Wilson was asked whether he would rather win a state championship or beat Valdosta. He replied, “I’d rather beat Valdosta than win a national championship. I don’t have to live with the rest of the nation.” 12,000 fans watched the Lowndes Vikings lift the trophy for the first time in 1980. Martin Stadium’s field was named in his honor. Photo courtesy of Private Collection; information courtesy of the Valdosta Daily Times, Georgia Trend, and Lowndes High School. Lowndes County Historical Society & Museum is open free to the public Tuesday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
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