Alabama state championship winning head coach to retire after 26 years of coaching

Larry Strain announced his resignation as Handley's lead man on Thursday

Handley coach Larry Strain looks on at Montgomery Catholic High School in Montgomery, Ala., on Friday, Nov. 18, 2022. Catholic leads Handley 16-14 at halftime. / Jake Crandall/ Advertiser / USA TODAY NETWORK

One of Alabama's top head coaches of the past decade has decided it's time to call it quits altogether.

According to Al.com's Ben Thomas, Strain announced his resignation as Handley's head football coach. Per Thomas' report, defensive coordinator Chris White has been tabbed as Strain's replacement.

Handley Head Coach Larry Strain has announced he's stepping down from Handley and retiring from coaching.

Strain went 84-36 in 10 years with the Tigers and won 2 State Titles coming in 2016 and 2020. pic.twitter.com/dNWvqwbCpe

— BamaPreps (@BamaPrepsFB) January 24, 2025

Over the course of 26 years coaching in the Yellowhammer State, Strain won two state championships in 2016 and 2020 at Handley.

Strain owns an overall coaching record of 186-122, with 21 playoff appearances in 26 seasons. During Strain's time leading Handley, he compiled a 84-36 record.

“The Handley Family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Coach Larry Strain for his exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication to the Handley Tigers. His commitment to the success and growth of Handley athletics has left an indelible mark on the program," Roanoke City Schools said in a statement regarding Strain's retirement.

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