Palmetto High School Mourns Loss of Coach, Athletic Director Bryan Wilkes
Palmetto High School and the School District of Manatee County are mourning the loss of Bryan Wilkes, a longtime educator, coach, athletic director, veteran and mentor who spent more than two decades serving students and athletes.
Wilkes dedicated much of his career to Palmetto High School, where his influence extended beyond athletic competition. Through coaching, teaching and leadership, he helped generations of students develop discipline, confidence, perseverance and responsibility.
A Florida native and graduate of Southeast High School, Wilkes was an accomplished wrestler who later served in the U.S. Marine Corps and competed as a member of the All-Marine Wrestling Team. He went on to build a career in education and athletics, leading wrestling programs and serving athletic departments throughout Manatee County.
In 2005, Wilkes founded the wrestling program at Palmetto High School and led the Tigers to numerous successes over the years. His role at the school expanded in 2020 when he became athletic director, continuing his commitment to supporting student-athletes, coaches and athletic programs.
Throughout his career, Wilkes earned the respect of colleagues, students and families for his integrity, work ethic and dedication to helping young people succeed both in athletics and in life.
Palmetto High School Principal Monica S. DeLesline said Wilkes devoted his life to serving students and supporting athletics throughout Manatee County. His influence will continue through the many students, athletes, coaches and colleagues he mentored and inspired during his career.
The school district and Palmetto High School extended condolences to Wilkes’ family and those who knew and loved him while asking the community to respect the family’s privacy as they grieve.
