People have targeted Thompson High School, Hewitt-Trussville High School, and Hoover High School as the Alabama programs that produce talented athletes for Crimson Tide football, but a fourth school is rising.
Pinson Valley High School has given Ga’Quincy “Kool-Aid” McKinstry to Nick Saban; however, more could be on the way.
The three-time Class 6A state champions (2017, 2018, 2020) have hired Roy Upchurch as its head strength and conditioning coach and running back coach. Pinson Valley announced the news Saturday morning via Twitter.
Meet your 2021 PVHS football staff. Former @AlabamaFTBL great Roy Upchurch. pic.twitter.com/1tP3HCRtwV
— Pinson Valley Football (@Pinson_Football) August 14, 2021
Upchurch joins Sam Shade (Indians’ head coach) as the second Crimson Tide alum on the staff.
Upchurch was a four-star athlete from Florida in the 2005 recruiting cycle. He played under Mike Shula and Saban from 2005 to 2009 and was on Alabama’s 2009 BCS National Championship roster. Upchurch made the biggest play of his career in the 2009 Iron Bowl with a game-winning touchdown reception from Greg McElroy versus Auburn. His efforts advanced the Tide into the SEC Championship Game.
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He totaled 923 rushing yards with nine touchdowns for his career.
Upchurch assisted Saban to his first-ever perfect season, and he looks to bring the vibe to Pinson Valley.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
