With great sadness and heavy hearts, the community of Orange County Schools marks the passing of Coach Mike McCauley, Athletic Director at Orange High School, who died Monday after a brief illness.
Our prayers and affection go out to Coach McCauley’s family, to all the Panther Family at Orange High, and to the many colleagues who worked with Coach McCauley in OCS and in countless North Carolina schools during his service to OHS as a coach and teacher for four years, and as Athletic Director since 2016.
Coach McCauley's positive impact on the school will be felt and appreciated for many years to come.
Principal Jason Johnson said, "Coach McCauley was a valued member of our staff and community. He worked countless hours to ensure that our athletic program at Orange High School was a success. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family. He will truly be missed."
The consummate professional, McCauley improved on past successes and strengthened the school as a whole by leading a fundamentally sound, supportive, healthful, and competitive athletic program and hiring numerous coaches to build on the school's vision.
Coach McCauley will be remembered for overseeing programs and athletes who excelled and rose to prominence, and he will be loved by many who flourished thanks to his quiet care and steady professionalism. He is already sorely missed by the community of Orange County Schools.
“The NCHSAA is saddened to hear of Mike McCauley’s passing,” said Que Tucker, NCHSAA Commissioner. “Mike’s contributions to student-athlete success at Southern Lee, Graham and Orange were tremendous and his presence will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and the Orange High School community.”
OCS will post a more comprehensive statement to the website at a later date.
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Kevin Smith
Chief Public Information Officer
Orange County Schools
