Linden High alumnus Johnney Ford is back into coaching after a two-season hiatus. Ford, who graduated from Linden High in 1990 and served as defensive coordinator at his alma mater from 1996 through 2007, is the new defensive coordinator for the Holy Spirit Titans.

“I’m very excited,” Ford said. “I’ve been out of it for about two years. I’m very excited to be back into coaching and have an opportunity to work at Holy Spirit.”

Ford, who was an assistant coach for Anniston High School in the 1994 and 1995 season, spent the 2008 campaign working with the John Essex Hornets before stepping away from the game. His return puts him in the same region with the Hornets.

“We’ll be young, but the football players that I’ve met so far seem really energetic and excited about the upcoming season,” Ford said. “We’re going to run a 43 defense. We’re going to go against a lot of spread teams.”

While he will work to teach his new players the nuances of the game and the defensive scheme, Ford said he is also excited to be working with young student-athletes again.

“I’m hoping to be able to bring a lot of energy, excitement, character-building, just teaching them the whole concept of playing team football, being a member of the team and being a good citizen,” Ford said.

Ford’s return to competition will come Friday, Aug. 19 when Holy Spirit faces Akron for a Jamboree contest. The regular season opener will come Friday, Aug. 26 against West Jefferson Christian.