Citronelle Call News

2 months ago | thecallnews.com | Arthur L. Mack

By ARTHUR L. MACK Baker defensive coordinator Eric Scott, who directed one of Class 7A’s best defenses in 2024, was promoted to head coach Friday, the school announced. Baker athletic director Daniel Kertis said Scott, who has served as an assistant coach for the last four years, was named as head coach, succeeding Juan Johnson, who left after one season to take the James Clemens job.

2 months ago | thecallnews.com | Arthur L. Mack

By ARTHUR L. MACK Erik Speakman announced his resignation as Faith Academy’s football coach Monday after only one year on the job. Speakman, who directed the Rams to a 1-8 finish in 2024, cited family issues that required him to return to the Auburn-Opelika area. He told the Call News he hopes to find a job in that area. Speakman said he had to play a lot of freshmen and sophomores in 2024 but the experience they gained should pay off.

Jan 17, 2025 | thecallnews.com | Arthur L. Mack

By ARTHUR L. MACK Vigor coach John McKenzie parted ways with the school Friday for the second time in four years, according to the Mobile County Public School System. McKenzie was fired after leading the Wolves to a 12-2 finish and a berth in the Class 5A semifinals. He succeeded Marcus Cook, who was fired just as suddenly last summer. McKenzie was also put on administrative leave after leading Vigor to the 2021 Class 4A state title, then left to take the Murphy job.

Jan 9, 2025 | thecallnews.com | Arthur L. Mack

By ARTHUR L. MACK After 11 months on the job, Juan Johnson resigned Wednesday as Baker High School’s head football coach to take the job at Class 7A James Clemens High in Madison. “It was a family-based decision,” Baker athletic director Daniel Kertis said in confirming Johnson’s dual moves. “He saw an opportunity that was better for him and his family.

Dec 6, 2024 | thecallnews.com | Arthur L. Mack

By ARTHUR L. MACK BIRMINGHAM — Offense wins championships but defense sets the tone. While Jackson’s offense was receiving all the attention and love in its 69-6 thrashing of Cherokee County Friday in the Class 4A state championship game, the defense made it possible, reducing the Warriors’ running game to a non-factor. Cherokee County managed only 72 yards rushing on 38 attempts, averaging less than 2 yards a carry. Leading rusher Tae Diamond, rushed for 47 yards on 19 attempts.