Rachel Worsham Makes History as Virginia Varsity Coach

The veteran player leads the Thomas Jefferson High School football team to its first win of the season.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Football

Rachel Worsham Makes History as Virginia Varsity Coach

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In January 2026, Rachel Worsham became the first female varsity football coach in Virginia high school history when she was hired by Thomas Jefferson High School in Alexandria. She recently guided the team to its first victory of the season against Manassas Park.

Why it matters

Worsham transitioned from coaching girls flag football to tackle football to share her expertise with novice players. Her appointment marks a significant milestone for inclusivity in Virginia scholastic athletics.

Worsham played 12 seasons and won two national championships as a member of the D.C. Divas. The team secured its first win against Manassas Park with a 14-6 lead after starting the season with a 0-2 record.

The players

Rachel Worsham

She is a former player for the D.C. Divas who was inducted into the team Hall of Fame in 2024.

Thomas Jefferson High School

This educational institution located in Alexandria serves as the site for the history-making football program.

The details

Worsham uses the conceptual framework of magnets to instruct students on complex blocking and tackling principles. She also emphasizes safety by teaching her players the correct techniques for falling during physical contact.

In January 2026, the school officially hired Worsham as the varsity football coach.
The team secured its first win against Manassas Park in mid-September 2026.

Season Trajectory

This historic coaching hire shifts the cultural narrative for Virginia high school sports programs. It marks a departure from traditional hiring patterns while setting a new standard for diversity in coaching staff leadership.

The team broke an early 0-2 losing streak to secure a win against Manassas Park. This victory shifts the momentum for the squad as players like Sohum Das look to achieve an 8-0 record during their senior year.

The takeaway

Worsham brings her experience as a two-time national champion to the high school level to foster fundamental skills in novice athletes. Aspiring coaches can look to her instructional methods, such as utilizing magnetic analogies to explain complex contact mechanics.