Legendary Alabama High School Baseball Coach Dies

TRUSSVILLE, AL — Baseball coaching legend Phil English died Monday at the age of 82. English coached baseball for 28 years at Ensley, Banks, Huffman and Hewitt-Trussville and compiled a career record of 566-217, with two state championships at Huffman.

Only three of his teams since 1971 failed to reach the state playoffs and 12 of his players signed professional contracts, including Major League Baseball All-Star pitcher Britt Burns and 6-year MLB veteran Jay Tibbs.

“Coach Phil English was great mentor for fellow coaches and made a tremendous difference in the lives of the players and others he touched,” said AHSAA Executive Director Steve Savarese. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.”

English was inducted into the Alabama High School Sports Hall of Fame in 1994 and the Alabama Baseball Coaches Association in 2000. The baseball stadiums at Huffman and Hewitt-Trussville are named in his honor.