Prattville has officially entered a new chapter in their high school football program as head coach J.B. Wallace has stepped down after four seasons. The announcement was made on Wednesday afternoon, marking the end of Wallace’s tenure, which saw him lead the Lions to a record of 21-20 and struggle to find success in the playoffs, ending with an 0-1 record.
Wallace’s last season was a mixed bag; the team started off strong with a 4-0 record before hitting a rough patch and losing five straight games. The Lions managed to finish the season at 5-5, concluding with a victory over JAG on November 1.
In a statement released by the school, it was emphasized that Prattville High School is dedicated to offering its athletes a quality educational and athletic experience. The search for Wallace’s successor will begin immediately, focusing on finding a leader who aligns with these values.
Prattville’s recent football history has seen significant highs and lows. From 1999 to 2011, coaches Bill Clark and Jamey DuBose led the team to a remarkable 38-8 playoff record with multiple state championships. However, the following coaches, including Anderson, Ross, and Wallace, only managed a combined 4-6 during their playoff appearances.
This past season, Prattville faced challenges when they shifted from Region 2 in Class 7A to Region 3, competing against tough teams from Birmingham. They struggled in these matchups, going 0-4 against playoff teams and were outscored 180-34. The search for a new coach comes at a critical time as the school aims to rejuvenate its football program.
Meanwhile, Smiths Station, another Class 7A school, is also on the hunt for a new head coach following the departure of Bryant Garrison, indicating a wider trend in football coaching changes across the state.
