Darrell Fuqua Tapped to Lead Pleasant Grove Football Program

PLEASANT GROVE, AL – Darrell Fuqua has officially been named  the ninth head football coach of the Pleasant Grove Spartans.

The Russellville native succeeds Darrell LeBeaux, who led the Spartans to an impressive 75-16 record over seven seasons, including three consecutive state runner-up finishes and a trip to the semifinals. LeBeaux stepped down last month to become the offensive coordinator and assistant head coach at Hoover High.

Fuqua is making the move to western Jefferson County from powerhouse Thompson, where he served as defensive backs coach and recruiting coordinator.

Fuqua’s playing career at Russellville earned him recognition as the Class 5A Region 8 Player of the Year in 2002. He capped his prep playing career by helping lead the Golden Tigers to a region title and a state runner up finish .  He continued to shine on the gridiron at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), where he played every position in the secondary from 2003-07. Fuqua was named to the Conference USA All-Freshman Team in 2004 and went on to play in 33 games, tallying 82 tackles during his time with the Blazers.

Pleasant Grove Principal Jarvis Watkins emphasized Fuqua’s ability to develop players both on and off the field. “Coach Fuqua is a respected coach with a proven track record as both a player and a mentor,” Watkins said. “At every program he’s been a part of, he has helped players grow into successful young men, providing opportunities for academic achievement and success at the college football level.”

Fuqua has also been part of seven 7A AHSAA championship teams in football and track and field, further showcasing his expertise and commitment to excellence in Alabama high school athletics. His experience coaching at the highest level in the state is expected to be pivotal in continuing Pleasant Grove’s strong football tradition.

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“Coach Fuqua understands the standard set by Coach LeBeaux and his staff,” Watkins added. “With his experience and leadership, we are confident he will bring Pleasant Grove football back to the elite level our program is known for.”

The Spartans made the move from Class 5A to 4A in 2024 and closed out the season at 9-2, falling to St. Michael Catholic in the second round of the postseason.