Oak Ridge’s Elijah Williams resigns as head coach

Elijah Williams has once again stepped down as the head coach of the Oak Ridge Pioneers football team after helping the team win its first district title in over 35 years this past season.

Although, Florida HS Football was tipped off by a close source to the developing story, Chris Hays at the Orlando Sentinel was able to confirm through a story about the resignation of Williams.

According to the report, Williams cited a lack of energy and a level of distrust with the players on the team.

However, the report also indicates that other factors played into including the time Williams spent in the NFL and the lingering side effects from injuries that also played a part of submitting his resignation. In the end though he recognized the teachers, support staff and administration as being a part of the success of helping to turn Oak Ridge around into a playoff contender.

Williams leaves Oak Ridge with a record of 47-15 over eight total seasons over two tenures that included playoff appearances in 2010, 2013 and last year. Williams who went 2-3 in the playoffs achieved huge first round playoff victories over Apopka in 2010 and against an undefeated Fleming Island squad in 2013.

No timeline has been announced to find a replacement or if an interim coach will be named prior to spring football starting on Monday, April 27.

To read the full story from Chris Hays, including many quotes from Williams, click here.

Join The Discussion: Sign up for a FREE user account | Discuss on our message boards here