Alabama high school coach suspended for recruiting violations

The State of Alabama has suspended Mary G. Montgomery head football coach Zach Golson for the 2026-2027 season after the school reported recruiting violations.

Golson compiled a 37-10 record at the Division 7A level during his four years at the school. The program drew attention from other coaches in the area because of its success.

The violations came to light after the school held a signing-day ceremony for eighth-grade students who were not in the Mary G. Montgomery attendance zone. The event was posted on social media. A principal from an opposing school reported the program to the Alabama High School Athletic Association.

Mary G. Montgomery officials later admitted the violations. The school was placed on probation for the upcoming season and will be barred from the postseason. Any wins against Mary G. Montgomery will not count in Division 6A, Region 1 standings.

Players who took part in the ceremony but live outside the district must now play for the school in their own attendance zone. The team will play a full schedule of games that will not count toward official standings.