A Fresh Coaching Direction
Alabama Christian Academy entered the offseason with a sense of renewal after its first losing campaign in five years. Veteran head coach Michael Summers stepped down in April, paving the way for J.L. Dockins, who previously coordinated the Wetumpka offense. Dockins inherits a team that must adapt to the AHSAA’s new postseason structure that separates public and private schools into Single A and larger classifications.
Rebuilding the Roster
The Eagles now field 31 players, many of whom will see extensive playing time on both offense and defense. The compressed roster forces coaches to blend talent across positions, but it also creates opportunities for younger athletes to step into prominent roles. The coaching staff emphasizes versatility, insisting that every player master multiple responsibilities to sustain competitiveness.
Key Offensive Weapons
Two standout running backs headline the offensive skill set. Senior Micah Merritt, a 6‑foot, 200‑plus‑pound bruiser, is celebrated for his north‑south power and ability to break tackles. Junior Mekhi Gardner, similarly sized, offers a more elusive style, excelling at possession runs and making sharp cuts to keep defenses off balance. Both players are expected to shoulder the bulk of the rushing attack.
Defensive Strengths and Gaps
On defense, the line brings athleticism that could disrupt opposing backfields, while safety Levi Summers impressed during fall camp with his play recognition on run situations. However, the offensive line continues to work through snap accuracy issues, a point of emphasis for Dockins as the team fine‑tunes its protection schemes. Quarterback Mason Henry, a sophomore, shows raw throwing ability but must develop leadership qualities and consistency before the season opener.
Looking Ahead
The Eagles open the 2026 schedule against traditional Single A rivals, including Montgomery Academy, a team that has historically set the benchmark for competition in the classification. While the road ahead presents challenges, the combination of experienced coaching, developing talent, and a culture focused on leadership suggests that Alabama Christian Academy could surprise many observers. The Montgomery Advertiser’s coverage of fall camp underscores the community’s optimism and the program’s commitment to rebuilding a winning tradition.