Darrell Higgins steps down as Mars Hill Bible School (AL) HFC

After 10 seasons at the helm of one of Alabama’s top high school football programs, Darrell Higgins has decided it was time to step away, according to a press release by Mars Hill Bible School on Friday.

Higgins, who led the Panthers to four state championships, is stepping down as the Mars Hill Bible School head football coach.

“Ten years ago I came to MH looking for Christian education for my kids,” Higgins said in the press release. “It’s brought me that and so many more blessings that it’s difficult to even think about leaving. I’ve fallen in love with the community, the students, everything about it. It’s an unbelievably special place, and that’s why all three of my kids graduated here. The support of this school has been more than I could ever ask for. Everything is in place for a great future for the program and for Mars Hill Bible School.”

Higgins is the only coach in Alabama high school football history to win state titles in three different classifications, holding a 29-5 playoff record. The Panthers win seven region titles and four state championships in 2018 (Class 1A), 2020 (Class 2A), 2024 (Class 3A), and 2025 (Class 3A).

The Panthers ended this past season with an 16-0 record and finished ranked No. 37 in the final 2025 Alabama High School Football Massey Rankings.

More about Mars Hill Bible School

Mars Hill Bible School, located in Florence, Alabama, is a faith-based institution serving over 750 students from preschool through 12th grade. Founded in 1947, it combines academic rigor with a strong spiritual foundation, offering a biblical worldview through daily chapel and Bible classes. The school’s athletic teams, known as the Panthers, compete in Class 2A of the Alabama High School Athletic Association. Mars Hill is renowned for its competitive football and basketball programs, with state championships in various sports.

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