School Spotlight: Gordo Greenwave (Gordo, AL)

Gordo High School is a public secondary school located in Gordo, Alabama. It was established in 1898. The team’s nickname is the Greenwave and their school colors are green and gold. Gordo participates in the 3A level of the AHSAA. Some notable alumni are Wayne Davis (all-time leading tackler at Alabama), his son Ben Davis who now plays in the XFL, Tanner Bailey (current South Carolina backup QB), and Donte Knox (DB for Alabama in the 80’s). Gordo has won 4 state championships in football in 1968, 1980, and 2001 in 2A, and a 3A championship in 1985. Since 2000, Gordo has been the winningest football program in Alabama, going 211-55. The Greenwave are currently led by Head Coach Gus Smith. 

In Coach Smith’s first year as head coach this past year, their record was 11-2, losing in the quarterfinals to Piedmont. In the past Coach Smith was an assistant with Daphne, in 2010, being a part of a state championship. From 2015-2020 Coach Smith was at Mobile Christian, going 55-9 in 7 years and playing for 2 state championships. In 2021, Coach Smith was the Defensive Coordinator for Jackson High, making it to the state semifinals in his first year.

Gordo does not shy away from their goals at the beginning of the year. They are here to win a state championship, and if they do not win then it’s a bust. Gordo should be competing for state championships yearly and this is the type of culture that Coach Smith is bringing. Last year Gordo knew that they could have won it all, however Coach Smith acknowledged the recent emphasis on finishing games stronger. Lastly, even with good players graduating, Gordo’s tradition of greatness will stay strong. Coach Smith spoke about some prospects he expects to lead his team to state next year. 

#3 Ethan Wilder is a 6’1” 173 lb class of 2024 Cornerback and Wide Receiver. Ethan has a lot of D-1 offers and will have a big year on offense. 

#5 Jace Hathcockok is a 5’9” 162 lb class of 2024 Wide Receiver, Cornerback, and Free Safety. He will be playing Inside Linebacker, expected to be the leader and glue of the team. Jace is a great tackler.

#19 Chrisjavion “CJ” Lark is a 6’0” 185 lb class of 2025 Running Back and Wide Receiver. CJ is an athlete with high potential, and expected to contribute heavily this season. 

#51 Conner Tilley is a member of the class of 2024 Center. Conner is a great and powerful center who is important to the success of our team. 

#9 Willie Fonnville is a 5’8” class of 2025 Slot and Running Back. Willie is a great playmaker and can make something out of nothing.