Ross Newton Named Pelham Panthers Head Football Coach

PELHAM, AL – Ross Newton, a former Samford University standout and assistant coach, has been selected as the new head football coach for Pelham High School. The announcement was made on Thursday following a unanimous vote by the Pelham City Schools Board of Education.

Newton steps into the role with an impressive 21-year coaching resume at both the high school and collegiate levels, boasting experience at programs like Auburn, UCF, Samford, and Thompson High School. He replaces Mike Vickery, who finished with a 12-20 record over three seasons, including a challenging 1-9 campaign in 2024.

Coaching Experience and Achievements

A 2000 graduate of Homewood High School, Newton played football under the guidance of his father, legendary coach Bob Newton, before continuing his career as a walk-on defensive tackle at Samford University. There, he earned a scholarship, served as team captain during his senior season in 2003, and won the Bobby Bowden and Kenny Morgan awards for leadership.

Newton’s coaching career began as a graduate assistant at UAB under Watson Brown. He then joined Samford University, spending 14 years coaching the defensive line and linebackers and serving as the Bulldogs’ director of recruiting, camp coordinator, and pro liaison. Under his guidance, Samford made three trips to the FCS playoffs, including a co-championship in the Southern Conference in 2013, the program’s first title since 1936.

His coaching career includes notable stints at Auburn University as director of high school relations and two positions at UCF under Gus Malzahn, serving as head coach analyst in 2021 and later as chief of staff in 2024. Additionally, Newton contributed to Thompson High School’s success as its special teams coordinator from 2022-2023.

A Family Legacy of Coaching Excellence

Coaching excellence runs deep in Newton’s family. His father, Bob Newton, coached at Homewood High School, where he amassed an impressive 124-24 record and captured four state championships, including back-to-back titles in 2004 and 2005 before retiring. His brother, Bert Newton, currently serves as head football coach at Hartselle High School.

Newton’s mother, the late Jodi Newton, was a trailblazer in education, serving as superintendent of Homewood City Schools for over a decade. She was also a professor at Samford University, fostering a legacy of leadership and community impact.

Pelham’s Vision for the Future

Pelham athletics director Trey Simpson expressed confidence in Newton’s ability to revitalize the football program, citing his passion, energy, and vision. “Coach Newton has had a very successful 21-year career at both the collegiate and high school levels. When you think of Coach Newton, think of passion, energy, vision, and excitement. He embodies the spirit of what Pelham athletics represents and is highly respected throughout the Southeast. We are confident that he will elevate our program and continue to build on the strong traditions of Pelham football.”