West Blocton is gearing up for an exciting new chapter as Christopher Wilson takes the helm as the Tigers’ 33rd head coach. The appointment was confirmed by principal Terry Lawley following a Bibb County School Board meeting on Tuesday, April 9. Wilson steps into the role, replacing former coach Dre’Mail King, who resigned in March.
Principal Lawley expressed confidence in Wilson’s abilities, citing his extensive knowledge of the game as a primary factor in the decision-making process. “One of the first qualities to be concerned about when hiring a head coach is their knowledge of the game. After talking with Coach Wilson and talking with others that know him, one very consistent theme came out, he knows the x’s and o’s of the game,” Lawley shared in a statement.
In addition to his strategic prowess on the field, Wilson emphasized the importance of holistic student development, viewing athletics as a means to shape well-rounded individuals with strong character traits. “Coach Wilson also emphasized that working with student athletes was more than just athletics, it is about building the whole person and producing a great citizen with strong and respectable character traits,” Lawley added.
Wilson’s decision to join West Blocton was influenced by his desire to return to a smaller, more familiar setting akin to his alma mater, Washington County High School, where he enjoyed a successful tenure as head coach. “Coach Wilson expressed an interest in getting back to a smaller school that would feel more like home… For all of these reasons I feel like Coach Wilson is a good fit for our school and football program,” Lawley remarked.
With eight years of prior head coaching experience, Wilson brings his expertise to the Tigers’ program. His coaching journey spans various schools across Alabama, including stints at Washington County (2010-14), Straughn (2015-16), and Mary Montgomery (2017). Notably, Wilson boasts a commendable career record of 65-35, highlighted by five consecutive playoff appearances at Washington County and two region championships with the Bulldogs.
Currently, Wilson is wrapping up his duties at Hoover High, where he serves as an assistant baseball and football coach. As he prepares to embark on this new chapter at West Blocton, anticipation is high among students, staff, and supporters eager to witness the impact of Wilson’s leadership on the football field and beyond.
