McClenney Returns Home: Longtime West Bladen Coach Takes Over at West Columbus

CERRO GORDO, N.C. — After more than a decade of investing in students at West Bladen High School, Coach Brian McClenney is heading home, both literally and professionally.

McClenney has officially accepted the role of Head Coach for the boys basketball program at West Columbus High School. He will also join the faculty as a Health and Physical Education teacher.

It’s more than a career move, it’s a full-circle moment. A proud graduate of West Columbus, McClenney now returns to lead the program where his love for the game was first sparked. His ties to the school run even deeper: his father was the very first coach of the basketball program.

For the past 11 years, McClenney has been a staple at West Bladen. He served as an assistant boys basketball coach for all 11 years, while also spending seven seasons as the head coach of the girls basketball team.

He led the cross country program for eight years and spent a season as the school’s head golf coach. His dedication, leadership, and versatility left a lasting mark on the campus and its student-athletes.

“The biggest thing I’ll miss about West Bladen are the people who began as co-workers but now feel like family,” McClenney shared.

As he steps into this new role, the opportunity carries personal weight and a clear vision.

“Returning to West Columbus where my dad was the first coach is something I’ve dreamed about,” he said. “I graduated from there and I want to establish a culture of success that goes beyond the court.”

West Columbus isn’t just gaining a head coach — they’re welcoming back one of their own, ready to inspire a new generation of Vikings both on and off the hardwood.

---

McClenney Returns Home: Longtime West Bladen Coach Takes Over at West Columbus