Words by Marla Price | Images by Justin Hunter
Football season in Winston County is gearing up with fall jamborees this week, giving schools and communities a first glimpse of their hometown teams. These preseason matchups offer a taste of the action and build excitement for the season ahead.
Of special note is the 2nd Annual David Norwood Free State Kickoff at Winston County High School on Friday, August 15th at 5:30 p.m. Coach David “Stump” Norwood was a star nose tackle who helped lead Hartselle to the Class 3A state final in 1980. Norwood dedicated his life to teaching special education and serving as a head football coach, influencing countless lives through his selfless example. He passed away on February 25, 2025 after a battle with cancer, yet his legacy continues.
Winston County High School head football coach Caleb Simmons states, “When I started my coaching journey over a decade ago, my first job was working alongside Coach Norwood on the sidelines of Cordova High School.”
Simmons expressed how he was grateful that he could always call Norwood for his opinion on everything—from drawing up football schemes to managing quarterback club meetings.
“The next call could be to plan a fishing trip, to meet somewhere for lunch, or for our families to go to the mountains together for a weekend,” Simmons said.
Jeff Cole, WCHS Principal, said it was an honor to name the jamboree in Norwood’s memory. “I’ve known Coach Norwood a long time. He’s always been a great person who did things for the community. About three of the home games each year, Coach Norwood would be here, and we would always talk during halftime, breaking the game down,” Cole said.
Cole said that every time his school was doing a fundraiser or sponsorship, Norwood would, in some way, help them out. “Coach Norwood and his wife, Tracy, have made a huge impact on our community, and it is an honor to be able to include him in this special Friday night,” he said.
Teams participating in the event include Winston County High School, Curry, Cordova, Cullman, Tuscaloosa Academy, Hubbertville, and New Hope.
“We’ve had inquiries from as far away as Georgia and Tennessee. Last year, when Coach Simmons began this, it was pretty big, but it has grown. It’s just a great opportunity to showcase some kids,” Cole added.
In addition to enjoying the action on the field, fans will have the opportunity to visit tailgate booths and food vendors. Bama 2A, a recruiting group that specializes in providing exposure to athletes from small schools, will be in attendance, as will news outlets from around the area.
WCHS is the lone ranked area team in the Alabama Sports Writers Association’s preseason poll. At #8 in Class 2A, the Yellow Jackets are looking to build on last year’s success that included the school’s first-ever region championship.
In other action across the county, Addison will face off at Lynn on Thursday, August 14th at 7:00 p.m., and Meek will travel to Falkville on Friday, August 15th at 7:00 p.m.
Haleyville will also be on the road for a jamboree matchup with Westminster on Friday the 15th at 7:00 p.m.
Fans can look forward to cross-county rivalries for the first regular season games on August 22nd, when Addison will host WCHS, while Lynn travels to Meek. Haleyville will host West Point on the 22nd. All games begin at 7:00 p.m. 67
