Silverdale Baptist Academy has named Al Rogers as its new head football coach and athletic director. Rogers had worked as the middle school's football coach and AD for the last three seasons before being promoted.
Rogers was selected from a list of at least 27 applicants and had previously taught and coached at Whitwell for two years and Ooltewah High for 15 years.
"I've been blessed to be around not just football-savvy guys, but really good character men to learn from," Rogers said. "My first reaction was let's get ready to go now. I'm anxious.
"The cool thing is the juniors, sophomores and freshmen are kids I coached at the middle school, so we already have a relationship."
Rogers, who said he plans to hire four or five new assistants to the staff, takes over for John Allen, who had served as the Seahawks' football coach and AD for five years, compiling a 23-29 overall record that included three playoff appearances. SBA finished 2-8 last season.
Contact Stephen Hargis at shargis@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6293.