Chris Smelley

The head coach at American Christian Academy (Tuscaloosa) from 2014-2020, Smelley returned his alma-mater to relevance by taking the Patriots to three consecutive state quarterfinal appearances (2017-19), and a state semifinal appearance in 2020. In his final four seasons at American Christian Academy, Smelley amassed a 45-8 record, captured three consecutive region crowns (2018-20), and averaged over 35 points per game. With over a decade of overall coaching experience, Smelley began his career as an assistant at Hillcrest High School (Tuscaloosa). After one year at Hillcrest, Smelley returned to his alma-mater as the offensive coordinator in 2012 before being promoted to head coach in 2014. Smelley took over a 5-6 American Christian Academy football program following the 2013 season. By 2015, Smelley changed the culture, leading the Patriots to a 10-2 record and a second round playoff matchup. Outside of his first season as the head coach in Tuscaloosa, Smelley's offenses only averaged less than 28 points per game in a season once. Before beginning his coaching and educational career, Smelley played quarterback for legendary Southeastern Conference coach Steve Spurrier at the University of South Carolina from 2006-2008. Coming out of high school, Smelley was recognized as a top 300 high school recruit in America by national recruiting services. Following his time in the Palmetto State, Smelley returned to Tuscaloosa to finish his college career at the University of Alabama where he joined the Tide's baseball team from 2009 to 2010. Among a long list of accomplishments, Smelley was named Tuscaloosa News Coach of the Year in 2015 and 2018. He was a Southeastern Conference Academic All-American from 2006 to 2008, and was named Gatorade High School Player of the Year for the state of Alabama. Smelley and his wife, Josie, have four children - Coleman, Canon, Franklin, and McKenzie.