On Sept. 17, Piedmont men’s soccer coach Justin Stephens reached a high feat – his 200th win. 

Stephens, now in his 21st season coaching for Piedmont, accomplished the win through a gritty match against Toccoa Falls, leaving with a 2-1 final score. 

Although the win wasn’t his 200th with Piedmont, it still shows the longevity of a dedicated coaching career. Coming into the season, Stephens has led the Lions to 154 wins.

“That win was special for our team because we knew how much it meant to Coach Stephens,” said junior defender Nathan Jacome. “Reaching 200 [wins] shows the impact he has had on this program, and we were proud to be a part of it.”

The win bumped the Lions’ win total to three at the time, and Coach Stephens will look to continue a steady season into conference play.

Stephens played for the Lions’ inaugural men’s soccer team in 1992, where he captained for three years. After his stint in Demorest, he moved to Emmanuel for five years, eventually returning to Piedmont in 2005.

In his 20 seasons as the Lions’ head coach, Stephens has guided the team to several championship appearances and coached many standout players — including junior Davis Knight, who was named CCS Rookie of the Year in 2023. He was also inducted into Piedmont’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2011.

Stephens has been at the forefront of Piedmont men’s soccer both as a player and a coach, and his 200th career coaching win continues a lasting legacy he will leave in Demorest.

To keep up with Piedmont men’s soccer, go to PiedmontLions.com.