Niblett steps down as head football coach/athletic director at Foley High

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FOLEY, Alabama — After five seasons at the helm of the Foley Lions varsity football team, Tad Niblett is reportedly stepping down as athletic director at Foley High School.

While school officials had yet to confirm his resignation at press-time Wednesday, Gulf Coast Media received word Wednesday morning of Niblett’s resignation.

In a letter addressed to “Foley Family” Niblett said that he and his family had been presented with a “new opportunity” but did not specify what that opportunity was.

“Five years ago, our family entered into a new season when we were presented the opportunity to come to Foley,” he said. “Much prayer and consideration were given when making our decision to move our family to Foley. As a family, we believed and still believe we made the right decision to move to Foley.

“It has been our experience that every new opportunity for our family has always come when we have least expected it. As we did when we considered our move to Foley, much prayer and consideration have been given to seek God’s guidance and confirmation. Paige and I feel that we are now being led in transitioning to a ‘new season’ in our walk, and the time has come for us to move on.”

Niblett expressed thanks to Foley High Principal Russ Moore, assistant principals, faculty, staff, parents and players for his time in Foley.

Niblett recorded a 6-4 regular season record in his first year at Foley, falling to Central Phenix City in the first round of the playoffs, but notched just 11 wins over the next four seasons for a 17-34 overall record at Foley, including going 3-17 over the last two seasons, 2-8 in his last campaign.

“I am extremely grateful to our student athletes that we have had the opportunity to coach,” he said. “While the results on the field were not always what we hoped for, it certainly didn’t take away from the commitment, effort, and work ethic that our players invested in.

“Thank you for allowing me to be your coach. We have always strived to run our program the right way, and it is my hope and desire that you have learned something from being in our program: to influence you in making Godly decisions to be a responsible citizen, faithful husband, and loving father. Each of you always have a special place in my heart.”

In 13 seasons as a head coach, Niblett has compiled a 53-75 record, going 31-34 in six seasons with the AISA’s Springwood of Lanett, Alabama in Chambers County near the Alabama-Georgia border. He led the Wildcats to a 7-3 regular season record in 2001 and an 18-14 victory over Southern Academy in the AA playoffs before falling to Wilcox Academy in the second round.

Niblett led the Central Christian Warriors of Selma to a 4-6 record in 1999, but it was good enough to make the AISA Class A playoffs, defeating South Montgomery Academy 44-11 in the first round before falling to Chambers Academy.

Before coming to Foley, Niblett was the offensive coordinator at Hoover High School.