MADISON- “I’m blessed to be in a good place here at James Clemens.”

That was the humble reaction from Wade Waldrop after being named the Class 7-A Coach of the Year by the Alabama Football Coaches Association (ALFCA). Waldrop just completed his seventh season with the Jets and posted a 9-3 record, including winning the Region 4 Championship for the second consecutive season with a perfect 7-0 mark. His squad lost 23-20 in the second round of the state playoffs in an overtime game with Hoover.

To make it that deep into the 2019 season was a complete turnaround by James Clemens after the team lost its first two games of the schedule before running off nine consecutive victories.

“I’m honored by the award as it represents a lot of good people who made this possible,” added Waldrop. “Everyone involved with this program is responsible.”

The 43-year old Waldrop came to James Clemens in 2013 and has since recorded a record of 46-32, including 32-17 in region play. Prior to arriving in Madison he was head coach at Chelsea High for seven years where he posted a record of 41-34.

The ALFCA based its awards on nominations from its membership, recommendations from a coach of the year committee and verified by the organization’s Board. Waldrop will receive his award at the annual ALFCA Banquet on Saturday, Jan. 25 in Montgomery.

“I was certainly surprised when I was contacted about the honor as there are a lot of good coaches in Class 7A who could have easily won the award,” said Waldrop. “To have my peers’ feel I am deserving is very humbling.”

Waldrop has always been a hands-on type coach and works daily on the program, staff and facilities. He added, “This award is actually motivating for our entire program- and a good reflection on James Clemens High School.”