MEN’S AND WOMEN’S SOCCER COACH AT APEX HIGH SCHOOL: 2001-2020

Legendary Coach Kevin Todd’s coaching career at Apex High School spanned 29 years from 1991-2020. Coach Todd is a two-time “State Coach of the Year” selection and, during his tenure, he won 11 conference championships in men’s soccer and 15 conference championships in women’s soccer. On top of this, his men’s team won the Wake County Cup in 2015. A remarkable feat which very few coaches anywhere in high school can match, Coach Todd won a state championship in both men’s soccer in 2005 and another State Championship in women’s soccer in 2007. He was then selected as head coach in the North Carolina vs. South Carolina Women’s All-Star Game in 2008, as well as the men’s head coach in the East vs. West North Carolina Coaches Association All-Star Game in 2006.

While Coach Todd’s accomplishments reflect hall-of-fame caliber coaching credentials, the positive relationships Coach Todd fostered with his athletes and his students are what will be his legacy. Considered a master motivator by his athletes, Coach Todd was ahead of his time in advocating visualization techniques and implementing other areas of sports psychology. Coach Todd always carried himself with the highest character, constant positivity, unparalleled humility and a supportive, yet relentless drive to push those around him to be their best selves. His infectious smile and constant spirited positivity were staples. On the field, he was the epitome of sportsmanship, beloved by his own team, opposing teams and officials as well. Over the years, opposing coaches came to view him not just as a competitor, but as a friend.

Coach Todd’s style was legendary as well. His impossible-to-duplicate neatness with his ball cap, his mustache and his coordinated outfits were synonymous with CAT soccer. He was consistently supportive and kind, while at the same time pushing athletes and students beyond what they thought they were capable of achieving—both in the classroom and on the pitch. He always built players up to make them believe in themselves.

According to Coach Todd’s family, they are sure that his calling was always to make those around him smile and enjoy the moments of life that we often miss. He did everything with passion. His classmates in junior high and high school enjoyed his enthusiasm and plots to prank someone throughout the days, and noted that he always made it a point to include those who were not always included. He also sang in the high school musical, “Oklahoma,” as Judd, offering further proof that he was always so entertaining and willing to do the things to bring light and life into the atmosphere.

His love of family came to life in his conversations with his mother. Their talks on Saturday mornings were full of laughter, joy and peace of mind for both. Mr. Oltmans and an Apex High School friend summed him up by comparing his life to a tree. The tree symbolizes him as tall, strong, beautiful; always giving to others; and providing shade, refuge and relief for all those around.

Coach Todd was purposeful, powerful, generous, gentle and genuinely kind. And that Kevin Todd smile transported you into his world of living in the moment, giving out of the love he had for His creator, and remaining in the shadows far from the spotlight he made for others. He created family and a sense of belonging wherever he was, and we have shared the benefits of his efforts.

Coach Todd will always be remembered by the Apex community as a champion coach. He was a mentor, respected classroom teacher and friend who always made you feel like it made his day to speak to you. Coach Todd established the winning traditions of CAT soccer while being relentlessly positive and uplifting. As Coach Todd would often say, “Let’s make it a great day!”