Saint James to Name Stadium After Legendary Head Coach Jimmy Perry
MONTGOMERY, AL – Saint James School in Montgomery announced it will name its football stadium after longtime head coach Jimmy Perry, honoring his 44-year Hall of Fame coaching career and lasting impact on the Trojans football program.
A legacy of leadership
Perry guided Saint James to 92 wins in 11 seasons. His final team in 2022 finished 13-2 and claimed the Class 3A state championship.
“Coach Perry’s legacy is marked by leadership, hard work and character,” Head of School Dr. Larry McLemore said. “He has had a positive, life-changing impact on hundreds of student-athletes, coaches who were mentored by him, and many others. We are honored to recognize Coach Perry’s 44-year Hall of Fame career and his achievements both on and off the field with the naming of Jimmy Perry Stadium at Saint James School.”
Career milestones and achievements
Perry compiled 157 wins in 19 total seasons as a head coach. He also led Lee-Montgomery for five years and St. Paul’s Episcopal in Mobile for three seasons.
A 1979 Auburn University graduate, Perry began coaching as defensive coordinator at Trinity Presbyterian that year. He became Lee High School’s offensive line coach from 1982-84, then offensive coordinator from 1985-94, and later head coach.
Perry served five years as director of high school relations for Auburn University before returning to high school football in 2009. At Saint James, he was recognized for his leadership on the Alabama Football Coaches Association Board of Directors and the AHSAA District 3 Legislative Council. He was inducted into the Alabama High School Sports Hall of Fame in 2022.
Stadium upgrades and dedication
Saint James will construct a new entrance to the stadium and install a plaque commemorating Perry’s career. The school plans a formal dedication ceremony in the fall for the newly named Jimmy Perry Stadium. The stadium naming ensures Perry’s influence on Saint James and Alabama high school football will be celebrated for years to come.
FEATURED IMAGE: Perry during the Trojans 2022 AHSAA Class 3A title game at Auburn’s Jordan-Hare Stadium. (Brant Berry | PrepsNet)
