Alan Yawn is “The big beard on the bench.” Alan is in his 9th season with the Bobcats serving as chaplain for the program. In addition to Pastoral counseling, and Spiritual Direction; Yawn helps with community relations and connecting student athletes to the Banner Elk community as a whole.

Alan has served as the Pastor of Banner Elk Christian Fellowship since 2013, and prior to that as the Area Director for High-Country YoungLife from 2000-2013. Alan retired in 2024 as the head coach for the Avery High Men’s soccer program and has coached in various roles for the Avery County School system for 30 years.

Alan and his wife Amy have been married for 28 years and have lived in Banner Elk for as long. They have three young adult children, Owen (23), Annie (20), an Kaleil (18).