Alabama high school football coaches resign in face of scandal
Days after being put on administrative leave, Hoover High School (Ala.) head coach Drew Gilmer and defensive coordinator Adam Helms have resigned.
The decisions were a direct result of videos showing both performing disparaging acts in front of Hoover players at practice.
“The safety and well-being of our students and staff continue to be our top priorities,” superintendent Kevin Maddox said in the release. “We maintain high expectations for our employees and students. At this time, our focus is dedicated to supporting our football players and coaching staff.”
Gilmer, who joined the program in January after an impressive run at Clay-Chalkville (Ala.), becomes the Hoover head football coach who never coached a game. The school’s interim head coach will be Chip English.
Jonah Winston, one of the team’s standout players and younger brother of Jameis, seemed to disagree with the decision:
We love Coach Gilmer and Helms! They have a different style and that’s why they win! Every player in the program can say that there working to change the culture and make us better! Our culture is broke, 5-7 shows it! If the players want our coaches we should have em!#Sailsup
pic.twitter.com/CiugC8imBH
— Jonah “JP” Winston (@Jpw2026) August 7, 2024
The Buccaneers open up against Spain Park (Ala.) on Aug. 30.