A Hall of Fame Induction
Steve Savarese was recently inducted into the National High School Football Hall of Fame, joining a select group of coaches whose contributions have shaped the sport at the high school level across the nation.
The ceremony took place at the Hyatt Regency in Salt Lake City, where Savarese was celebrated as part of the 43rd class of the NFHS National High School Hall of Fame.
Over a distinguished career he guided four Alabama high school football programs to prominence and served as executive director of the Alabama High School Athletic Association from 2007 through 2021.
Transforming the Championship Landscape
During his tenure he oversaw a major realignment of the Super 7 Football Championships, moving the title games to a rotating schedule that featured venues such as Bryant‑Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa and Jordan‑Hare Stadium in Auburn.
He also expanded the championship rotation to include Birmingham’s new Progressive Stadium beginning with the 2021 edition, and he revived the indoor Track Championship, adding new sport initiatives such as bowling, esports and girls flag football.
Savarese’s leadership continued a lineage of Hall of Fame coaches, following in the footsteps of Cliff Harper, Herman (Bubba) Scott and Dan Washburn, all of whom had previously earned induction.
His impact extends beyond the field, fostering growth in emerging sports and providing new opportunities for student‑athletes throughout Alabama.