By Reporter: Candace Johnson
After years of shaping young athletes and guiding students, Willie Frank Moore reached a milestone moment March 23 with his induction into the Alabama High School Athletic Association Hall of Fame.
Moore, a native of Centreville and an alum of Bibb County High School, said he was shocked when he learned of the honor. “It was surreal. I was definitely surprised. I wanted to make a difference and impact lives,” Moore said.
Moore has been involved in athletics throughout his life, from his time as a student-athlete to his roles as a coach and educator. He credits several mentors for shaping his journey, including basketball coach Charles McCaleb, football coach Stan Moss and baseball coach Chris Forrest.
He went on to become a successful coach himself. During his time as head boys’ basketball coach at Bibb County High School beginning in 1997, his team recorded five seasons of 20 more wins and captured five area championships. While proud of those accomplishments, Moore said his players’ academic success means just as much.
“BCHS does a good job of preparing students for life after high school,” Moore said, adding that the school “molded champions.”
Moore said each position he has held helped prepare him for the next step in his career, driven by a passion for helping and educating others. Reflecting on his legacy, he said he hopes his players understand how much he cared for them and that he aimed to guide them in the right direction.
He added that one of the most meaningful moments in his career is watching his students graduate and move on to the next chapter of their lives. “That means more to me than any athletic event,” Moore said. For future athletes and coaches, Moore advises staying committed to the right reasons and putting students first. “It’s always a good day to be a Choctaw,” Moore said.
