Charles Winslette is already a Putnam County football legend, but his career reached new heights last Friday.
Winslette won the 350th game of his career (combined as a head and assistant coach), as the Putnam War Eagles bested the Baldwin Braves, 23-14 in their 2022 season opener.
“What a great ride it’s been the last five years back at my alma mater, climbing the mountain to become region champions in 2021 at 12-1,” Winslette said. “From starting as a freshman for head coach Al Reaves against a powerhouse Monticello team to winning the 1967 state championship in football and baseball as a Putnam County Blue Devil, so thankful to be able to end my career where it all started.”
As an Eatonton native, Winslette is highly regarded as a teacher, coach, and athletic administrator in the state of Georgia. He attended Putnam County High School, where he lettered in five sports. During his four-year tenure as a student at PCHS, Winslette participated on championship baseball, football and golf teams.
Winslette attended Georgia College and received a grant to play baseball. After an impressive sophomore season in which he was named the team’s MVP, he transferred to the University of Georgia where he finished his collegiate career. At UGA, Winslette hit over .320 and was named to the All-SEC Baseball Academic First Team.
While finishing up his baseball career, Winslette started his coaching career at Cedar Shoals High School in Athens. He then took over the program at Fayette County High School and led the team to five consecutive postseason appearances.
Success would continue to follow Winslette as he enjoyed stops at Statesboro High School, West Rome High School, and Greene-Taliaferro High School.
As a head coach, his teams won 260 games and state championships in 1985 (West Rome) and 1993 (Greene-Taliaferro). Winslette also served as an athletic director for over 30 years. During this tenure, he was named Region Athletic Director of the Year in 2002 and 2003. In 2003, he was named Class AAA Athletic Director of the Year.
“Awesome memories as a Blue Devil and a War Eagle,” Winslette said following the history-making win. “Thanks to all who sent congratulations; love you Eatonton and Putnam County. Go War Eagles!”