Ryan Williams Sr., right, directs his son, Ryan “Hollywood” Williams, in a 2023 workout in Saraland. Williams Sr. has joined Vigor’s staff as the defensive backs coach. (John O’Dell/Call News)
By ARTHUR L. MACK
Ryan Williams Sr., the father of former Saraland football star Ryan Williams, has joined the Vigor football staff as defensive backs coach.
Williams, a standout defensive back himself, played at B.C. Rain, signed with Auburn, transferred to Copiah-Lincoln Community College in Mississippi for a season, then signed with Louisiana Tech in 2010, where he started for one season before suffering a knee injury in 2011.
Williams remained actively involved with football after his career, working with his son and many youths through informal but disciplined, high-energy workouts. His son, the only two-time winner of the state’s Mr. Football award, is about to start his freshman season at Alabama.
“I think he’s a great addition to our staff,” Wolves coach John McKenzie said. “He’s familiar with the Vigor community and he’s good at what he does. He’s also part of our strength and conditioning coaching. With him helping us with that, we don’t look like a high school team when we’re on the field.”
McKenzie said the players respect Williams for how he molded his son and helped many others.
“Having his son under him really raised his profile,” McKenzie said. “The kids understand that too. They believe in what he does. With him being familiar with the kids, the community and the talent, we’ll be even better.”
Very glad to see this opportunity come to fruition for my Neighbor (growing up). It’s well deserved and a great addition to the VHS Athletics Program. Congrats Coach Williams!
Very glad to see this opportunity come to fruition for my Neighbor (growing up). This is well deserved and he’s a great addition to the VHS Athletics Program. Congrats Coach Williams!