Athens Christian Hires Former NFL Player as New Head Football Coach

Terance Mathis, a 58-year-old Detroit native, takes over the Eagles program.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 4:36pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Athens Christian has hired Terance Mathis, a former NFL player, as its new head football coach. The school held a ceremony on Thursday morning to welcome Mathis to the staff.

Why it matters

Mathis brings extensive professional playing experience to the Athens Christian program, which is looking to build on recent success and compete for a state championship. His hiring is expected to boost interest and excitement around the Eagles football team.

The details

Terance Mathis, a 58-year-old Detroit native, was hired as the new head football coach at Athens Christian. Mathis played 13 seasons in the NFL, primarily with the Atlanta Falcons, and was selected to the Pro Bowl in 1999. He takes over an Eagles program that has seen steady improvement in recent years.

  • Athens Christian held a ceremony to welcome Mathis to the staff on Thursday, April 2, 2026.

The players

Terance Mathis

A 58-year-old former NFL player who was born in Detroit, Michigan and is the new head football coach at Athens Christian.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Mathis will now begin assembling his coaching staff and implementing his vision for the Athens Christian football program ahead of the upcoming season.

The takeaway

The hiring of Terance Mathis, a former NFL Pro Bowler, as the new head football coach at Athens Christian is expected to bring renewed energy and excitement to the program as they look to build on recent success and compete for a state championship.