Friday Night Champions

Written by Coach Jackie Clayton

COACH JACKIE CLAYTON was born in Gadsden, Alabama, in 1946, the eldest of five boys. He graduated from Emma Sansom High School in 1964 as an outstanding football player. He then attended the University of Wyoming, where he was recruited on scholarship as an offensive lineman and played for two years. His greatest claim to fame during his Wyoming days was being coached by Fritz Shermer. Upon leaving Wyoming, he was recruited by Bubba Scott to play football at Samford University, where he was named an All-American, earned his bachelor’s degree, and was regularly named to the Dean’s List. Coach Clayton went on to earn master’s degrees in Education Administration and Physical Education from the University of Montevallo.

Jackie was a beloved coach, teacher, and administrator. He was admired and adored by so many because he poured his heart and soul into shaping, encouraging, and developing young lives. Over his 46-year career, he taught and coached at Mountain Brook High School and Junior High, Homewood High School, Oak Grove High School, Shades Valley High School, and Vincent High School. He ended his career where it began—at Mountain Brook High School—when Coach Joey Jones recruited him because of his exceptional reputation and vast experience.

Coach Clayton married his lovely wife, Ginger, in 1973. Together, they raised three children—a daughter and two sons—who gave them seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Coach Clayton instilled in his family the belief that one must give children their roots and then give them their wings. His greatest legacy, however, was not found in the wins, awards, or titles he earned, but in the lives he touched and the people who loved him. He was, and always will be, a GIANT of a man.