Former Clay-Chalkville head coach Drew Gilmer will be the new head coach at Hoover High School. Gilmer is coming off a win over Saraland in the Class 6A State Championship game in December. Gilmer has two state championships and a career head coaching record of 81-12 in seven seasons with the Cougars. 

"I'm extremly greatful and looking forward to the opportunity. This is a dream come true," said Bucs head coach Drew Gilmer. "If you just look around this place, it is the standard. We are going to build it to make you proud. Winning is important and we are going to win. We are going to build young men. Passion of mine to invest in these players. I want to build relationships with these young men. High character, win in the classroom and the community. Looking forward to the years to come."

Gilmer started his coaching career as an assistant coach at Pinson Valley, then becoming an assistant at Clay-Chalkville. In 2017, Gilmer took over from former Clay-Chalkville coach Jerry Hood. Gilmer is formally going to be hired at a school board meeting on January 9, 2024.