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Alton Today
By the People, for the People
Illinois High School Hires Hall of Fame Football Coach
Alton School District taps veteran coach Rick Reinhart to lead Redbirds program
Published on Mar. 6, 2026
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The Alton School District in Illinois has announced the hiring of Rick Reinhart, an Illinois Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame member, as the new head football coach for Alton High School. Reinhart brings nearly 50 years of coaching experience and over 200 career wins to the Redbirds program.
Why it matters
The hiring of a Hall of Fame coach like Reinhart is a major coup for the Alton High School football program, which is looking to turn around after finishing the 2025 season ranked 267th in Illinois. Reinhart's extensive experience and proven track record of success should provide a significant boost to the team and generate excitement within the local community.
The details
After reviewing over 20 applicants, the Alton School District selected Reinhart to lead the Redbirds football team. Reinhart, who last coached in 2023 at Civic Memorial before retiring, has compiled an impressive 213-202 record over 42 seasons as a head coach at various Illinois high schools including Mascoutah, Fairfield, Civic Memorial, and Tuscola.
- Reinhart was announced as the new Alton High School head football coach on Thursday, March 6, 2026.
- Reinhart last coached in 2023 before retiring, but is now returning to the sidelines to lead the Redbirds.
The players
Rick Reinhart
An Illinois Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame member with nearly 50 years of coaching experience and over 200 career wins as a head coach at various Illinois high schools.
Alton School District
The school district that oversees Alton High School and has hired Reinhart as the new head football coach for the Redbirds program.
What’s next
Reinhart will begin his tenure as the new head football coach for Alton High School immediately, with the goal of turning around the Redbirds program and leading them to success in the 2026 season.
The takeaway
The hiring of Hall of Fame coach Rick Reinhart represents a major investment by the Alton School District in the future of their high school football program. Reinhart's extensive experience and proven track record of success should provide a significant boost to the Redbirds and generate excitement within the local community.
