By Marla Jones, Managing Editor • marla@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Fort Payne Cross Country Coach Ashley Griggs Jackson was recently selected to receive the 2017-18 Alabama Coach of the Year award for Girls Cross Country on behalf of the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Coaches Association.

Jackson was nominated by the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) as the most deserving recipient of this honor. She was selected because she was recognized as someone who is leading their sport, shaping their athletes and contributing to their community in a positive way.

In 2017, Jackson led her team to win the Class 6A State Championship and was the Class 6A Runner-Up last year with four of her runners making All-State.

Congratulations to Ashley for this great honor!