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

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — At the 23rd Annual Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) Championship Coaches' Awards Banquet, 113 State Championship coaches, among others,  who led teams to state titles in the AHSAA Championship program for 2018-19, were honored for outstanding accomplishments in sports. Alabama Secretary of State John Merrill was the night's keynote speaker.

Ashley Jackson, the coach of Fort Payne Girls' Cross Country team, was one of 22 outstanding AHSAA Coaches, who were selected as the 2018 NFHS State Coach of the Year in their respective sports.

Fyffe High School teacher, coach and Athletic Director Heath Thrash was named the AHSAA Athletic Director of the Year. 

Eight schools received AHSAA FutureOnes grants of $500 for sports uniforms and other clothwear. Among the selected schools was Valley Head High School. 

For a full list of honorees and award winners, please visit the news section on ahsaa.com.