Former Thompson, McGill-Toolen, Opelika and Prattville Head Coach Caleb Ross Joins AHSAA Staff

MONTGOMERY, AL – Tulane University Assistant Football Coach and Alabama high school football head coaching veteran Caleb Ross has been named Assistant Director of the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA). The announcement was made Tuesday by AHSAA Executive Director Heath Harmon, with Ross set to start his new role on Monday, January 13.

Harmon also noted that the search for another executive staff position is ongoing, with hopes of filling it soon.

Ross brings over 20 years of experience as an educator, coach, and athletic administrator to the AHSAA. Most recently, he served as an offensive analyst and wide receivers coach at Tulane University. His extensive football career also includes working as an offensive analyst and tight ends coach at Troy University (2021-2023), where he oversaw high school relations in addition to coaching responsibilities.

“Coach Ross brings a wealth of coaching expertise and strong relationships across the coaching community in Alabama,” Harmon said. “He understands the AHSAA’s mission and its dedication to education-based athletics.”

Ross boasts an impressive Alabama high school head coaching record, compiling a 64-31 mark during stints at Thompson High School (2011), McGill-Toolen Catholic (2014-2016), Opelika High School (2017), and his alma mater, Prattville High School (2018-2020). A Samford University graduate (2002), Ross began his coaching career as an assistant at Clinton High School in Mississippi (2002-2005) before joining Prattville’s staff, as an assistant, from 2006 to 2010.

Notably, during his tenure as head coach at McGill-Toolen, Ross led the Yellow Jackets to a 30-8 record. This run included back-to-back 13-1 seasons, culminating in the school’s first-ever Class 7A State Championship in 2015 and a runner-up finish in 2016. Ross also guided Opelika to a 9-4 finish in 2017 before returning to Prattville, where he achieved a 23-11 record and secured three consecutive Class 7A playoff appearances.

His coaching career began on the defensive side of the ball at Clinton High School before transitioning to offense at Prattville. During his five seasons as an assistant at Prattville, serving as offensive coordinator for the last three seasons, the Lions won three Class 6A state championships and reached the finals one additional time. He later spent one season at Spanish Fort High School as offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach in 2012, helping the Toros secure the Class 5A state title with a 13-1 season.

Ross’s accolades include being named the Alabama Football Coaches Association Assistant Coach of the Year in 2013 while at McGill-Toolen. His experience, success, and commitment to the high school athletic community are expected to be a significant asset to the AHSAA in his new role.  

FEATURED IMAGE: Caleb Ross leads the Prattville Lions in a 7on7 at Hoover High School in 2019. (Brant Berry | PrepsNet)