MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Anthony Edwards, a longtime educator and coach who currently serves as a teacher at the PLC in the Harris County School District, was recently inducted into the Alabama High School Sports Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2026.
Edwards, 54, built a distinguished career in athletics and education that spanned more than two decades. A native of Lee County, he graduated from Beauregard High School in 1990 and went on to attend Auburn University. He joined the staff at Loachapoka High School in 1997 and remained there for 26 years, serving in both assistant and head coaching roles.
He was best known for his leadership as a basketball and track coach. Under his direction, the Loachapoka girls’ basketball program achieved sustained excellence, reaching the state tournament Final Four at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex six times (1998, 2005, 2014, 2018, 2022, 2023). His 1998 team captured the Class 1A state championship.
Throughout his tenure, Edwards led his teams to 19 regional tournament appearances and 15 area championships. He amassed 512 career victories, reaching the milestone of his 500th win in 2023.
Beyond wins and championships, Edwards’ impact extended far deeper. During his career, he overcame a battle with cancer, drawing strength and inspiration from his students and athletes. His dedication to mentorship and character development earned him the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) Class 1A “Making a Difference” Award in 2021. He was also named Coach of the Year by the Opelika-Auburn News four times.
Reflecting on his journey and the honor, Edwards shared, “My team taught me discipline, and listening will take you a long way. You don’t have to have a lot of talent—sometimes you just have to be willing to listen.”
He was one of 12 individuals selected statewide for the Hall of Fame’s 2026 class. The honorees were chosen from 60 nominations submitted by member schools and organizations, with selections made by a committee assembled by the Alabama High School Athletic Directors & Coaches Association (AHSADCA).
The Class of 2026 was announced by AHSAA Executive Director Heath Harmon and AHSADCA Director James T. Lawrence on November 16.
The induction ceremony took place March 23, 2026, at the Montgomery Renaissance Hotel and Spa Convention Center.
Edwards’ legacy as a coach, mentor, and educator continues to influence students and athletes within the Harris County School District, where he remains committed to shaping future generations.