By NEAL WAGNER / City Editor

Thompson High School’s incoming head football coach said he sees much potential in the school’s football team, and is looking to replicate the success he saw during his last job.

Caleb Ross, a Prattville High School offensive coordinator who was recently approved as the new THS coach, took time away from conducting spring practice and workouts with the THS football team to celebrate with the community May 6 during Warrior Pride Day.

During the event, which was held at Thompson’s Larry Simmons Stadium, Ross spoke about his vision for the team and his thoughts on next year’s players.

“The more I work with them, the more potential I see,” Ross said of the team. “We’ve got a great group of kids. We’ve got a hard-working group of kids.

“This is one of the best places to live in Alabama. I truly mean that,” Ross said.

Ross said he is working to install new offensive and defensive schemes before the 2011 season begins, and is currently practicing with about 120 players.

“Everyone knows the success we’ve had at Prattville. That is my vision and goal here,” Ross said. “Not only do we want these guys to represent us on the field, we want them to represent what Thompson and Alabaster are all about.

“I hope we can put a great, quality program on the field next year,” Ross added. “It’s places like Alabaster that make high school football great in this state.”

The event, which was organized by the Alabaster Sports and Entertainment Foundation, the city of Alabaster and the THS Quarterback Club, also featured performances by the THS band and visual ensemble and commentary from the school’s outgoing and incoming principals.

“Thompson has been a great place. I have truly enjoyed being here and getting to spend the past six years with you,” said outgoing THS principal Robin Thomas, who was recently promoted to the high school coordinator position with the Shelby County School District. “Wonderful things lie ahead, I think.”

Incoming THS principal Danny Steele, a former THS assistant principal, said he was excited about taking the helm at the school and working with Ross and the other THS faculty members.

“It’s a great day to be a Warrior,” Steele said. “This clearly is a great community.”

Alabaster Mayor David Frings also said he was looking forward to working with the new football coach.

“You have got my full support,” Frings told Ross. “Anything we can do to help you, let us know.”