A Resounding Verdict in Montgomery's Coaching Poll
From July 12 through July 16, readers of the Montgomery Advertiser were invited to cast a single vote per hour for the coach they believed would achieve the most wins during the upcoming 2026 high school football season. The exercise, overseen by The Vance Law Firm, sought to gauge community expectations for the newest tactical leaders across the Montgomery area.
The results were unequivocal. Montgomery Catholic's Aubrey Blackwell captured 98 percent of the ballots, a testament to his established reputation and the confidence local fans place in his ability to steer the Knights to another successful campaign.
Blackwell's return to the program comes after former coach Jonathan Chandler accepted a position at Opelika, leaving a void that the community appears eager to fill with the same steady leadership that has defined the team in recent years.
Blackwell's tenure began in 2015, a turning point that sparked a five‑year streak of playoff appearances and culminated in a 3A state title game appearance in 2020. His track record of developing talent and maintaining competitive play has clearly resonated with voters who view him as the most likely catalyst for continued success.
The remaining vote was split among other contenders, with Saint James coach Hayden Stockton receiving just 1 percent of the total. While his share was modest, the poll underscores the community's focus on Blackwell's proven impact as the clear frontrunner for the 2026 season.