FORT PAYNE, Ala.—The Southern Torch Coach of the Week is Paul Ellis, Head Coach of the Fort Payne Wildcats.

Coach Ellis graduated from Fyffe High School.  He received his degree in Composite Science from Jacksonville State University. He is a second generation coach, following his Dad, Nelson Ellis, footsteps.

Coach Ellis has coached at Fort Payne for twenty-two years and has been the Head Coach for the Wildcats for thirteen years.  While at Fort Payne, the Wildcats have qualified for the playoffs every season but one.  Under his leadership, the Wildcats have won six region championships. In 2011, Ellis served as Head Coach for the North-South All-Star game.

Coach Ellis has been married to Kelly Whitmire Ellis for twenty-two years.  They have two children.  Jay Tyler Ellis, a junior, who plays for his dad and Emily, a seventh grader.

Coach Ellis’s favorite quote is “Winners aren’t born-they are made through hard work, dedication and discipline!”  Southern Torch wishes Coach Ellis and his Fort Payne Wildcats the best of luck in their upcoming season.