An Alabama high school is offering up to $180,000 a year for a new football coach as it looks to transform its struggling program into a championship contender.
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Dothan High School has launched a search for an experienced coach capable of turning around its football program following a disappointing season.
The school published an official job advertisement on October 28, offering an annual salary between $150,000 and $180,000, depending on experience.
Alabama Football Coach Vacancy Offers Nearly Four Times Starting Teacher Salary
The substantial salary has attracted attention, particularly when compared to the earnings of teachers across Alabama.
Teachers in the state reportedly earn an average annual salary of $62,659, while first-year teachers receive a starting salary of approximately $47,600.
At the top end, Dothan's coaching position offers nearly 2.9 times the statewide average teacher salary and almost four times the starting salary of a new teacher.
The school has advertised the position as a full-time, 12-month role, with the district also offering additional salary supplements to attract offensive and defensive coordinators.
According to Yahoo! Sports, officials hope to appoint a new head coach by late February 2027.
The vacancy follows the departure of former head coach Jed Kennedy, who resigned in September after the Wolves began their season with a 2-3 record.
Kennedy finished his tenure at Dothan with an overall record of 29-19, while the team concluded the 2026 regular season at 3-8.
Dothan High School Seeks Coach With Championship Experience
School officials have made their expectations clear, emphasizing that applicants must demonstrate a history of winning games, reaching the playoffs and developing competitive football programs.
"Candidates should be prepared to explain their plan for building and sustaining a state championship caliber program at Dothan High School," the job description reads.
The district will only consider "well-qualified candidates with championship pedigree", with applicants who have demonstrated success in varsity football playoffs receiving "first consideration".
"Candidates should demonstrate sustained success over time and the ability to build a complete program capable of competing at the championship level," the job description adds.
Between September 12 and October 23, Dothan suffered seven consecutive defeats, leaving the program searching for a much-needed turnaround.
However, the team ended its season on a positive note, securing a narrow 44-38 victory over Crestview in a non-league contest on October 30.
The district now hopes its significant financial investment will attract a coach capable of rebuilding the program and eventually competing for a state championship.
