DECATUR, Ala. — Decatur High School has found a new head football coach following the resignation of former head coach Aairon Savage. The Red Raiders have announced that John Ritter will be the new head football coach on Tuesday.
Ritter graduated in 2008 from The University of Alabama with a bachelor's degree in social sciences and later earned a master's degree in Instructional Leadership from West Alabama in 2018. Ritter also played three sports during high school and played as the quarterback at the University of North Alabama from 2003 to 2004.
His most recent head coaching job was at Russellville High School where he led the Golden Tigers for six years. Under his guidance, Russellville achieved a 52-19 record, secured six playoff appearances, and clinched the region championship title for the last four consecutive years. Ritter's coaching journey includes notable positions at Muscle Shoals High School, Deshler High School, and head coaching roles at Red Bay and West Morgan High School, where the Rebels earned a 3A Region 8 Championship.
In his 11 years as a head coach, Ritter has compiled an outstanding overall record of 85-42. Recognized for his coaching prowess, Ritter has been honored with the "Coach of the Year" award seven times by prestigious organizations such as the Alabama Sports Writers, Decatur Daily, and other regional associations.
