After 41 years on the sideline, including 24 leading the Bobcats, Steve Shepherd is handing over the whistle but not the mission. The longtime head coach at College of the Ozarks is stepping away from coaching to move full-time into his role as Athletic Director, calling the decision “peaceful” and filled with excitement for what’s next. In a program defined by rare stability, just two head coaches in 49 years, Shepherd’s transition marks the end of a defining era. But this isn’t retirement. It’s redirection. And it signals a powerful new chapter for COFO athletics.

🎧 Catch the full conversation for deeper insight into Shepherd’s decision:

Shepherd’s identity has always been rooted in preparation, relationships, and his signature motion offense, a philosophy he adopted years ago from Bob Knight’s teachings and refined into a Bobcat staple. He’s coached generations of players in a uniquely faith-driven environment where student-athletes work, academics matter, and local recruiting builds culture first. Even in a challenging 8–18 season, there’s one more spotlight moment ahead: hosting the NCCAA National Championship in mid-March, Shepherd’s final appearance as head coach. Fittingly, the last ride comes on a national stage.

Now, Shepherd will help guide the search for his successor, ensuring the next leader understands what makes COFO different and special. As a full-time AD overseeing eight sports, he’ll focus less on fundraising and more on mentoring coaches, supporting athletes, and strengthening the culture he helped build. The whistle may fall silent, but the influence won’t. This isn’t goodbye to Bobcat basketball, it’s a legacy evolving in real time.