Coach Eric Firestone is the head Coach of the Gardendale Rockets, Firestone has spent the past seven seasons as the Rockets’ defensive coordinator, where he played a pivotal role in the Rockets’ success.  A Hokes Bluff native and University of North Texas graduate, Firestone’s coaching career began after a brief period as a youth minister. His passion for impacting young lives drew him to coaching. “I’ve been doing youth ministry in public education for 23 years. I realized I could have a greater impact on kids’ lives by being in the classroom and on the practice field every day,” Firestone shared. “Football has always been my ministry.” Firestone’s coaching career began with a stint at Texas’ Sanger Middle School.  After two seasons in Texas he returned to Alabama to join the coaching staff at Talladega High.  Following a two year run with the Tigers he made the move to Tuscaloosa, serving as an assistant at Hillcrest High School for four seasons.  He accepted his first defensive coordinator position in 2011, joining head coach Will Wagnon’s staff at Munford.  During four seasons he helped guide the Lions to three consecutive playoff appearances, a region crown and a berth in the Class 4A semifinals.  He served as the defensive coordinator for three seasons at Hazel Green before joining Eads’ Gardendale staff in 2018. 

efirestone@jefcoed.com