Keith High coach Towanna Flennory wins statewide 2023 Making a Difference Award

Keith High School softball and volleyball coach Towanna Flennory is one of seven recipients in the state to win the 2023 Making a Difference Award from the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) and the Alabama High School Athletic Directors & Coaches Association (AHSADCA).

The award went to coaches who made an impact as exemplary role models. One recipient from each of the AHSAA’s seven classifications was selected from approximately 90 nominations submitted by AHSAA member schools and other support organizations or individuals. 

This year’s recipients are: 

• CLASS 1A:  Towanna Flennory, Keith High School High School softball and volleyball coach
• CLASS 2A: Dr. Jaqueline Parsons, Red Bay High School  Assistant principal
• CLASS 3A: Katie Barton, Saint James High School athletic director, girls’ basketball coach
• CLASS 4A: Ryan Roberson, Brooks High School volleyball coach, assistant athletic director
• CLASS 5A: Curtis Coleman, Leeds High School assistant football coach.
• CLASS 6A: Dennis Conner, Central-Tuscaloosa High School and athletic director, dean of students and flag football coach
• CLASS 7A: Adam Massey, Opelika High School assistant football coach (defensive coordinator)

Each honoree will be recognized at the 2023 AHSAA Summer Conference Championship Coaches’ Awards Banquet, which will be held July 21 at the Montgomery Renaissance Hotel and Convention Center at 6 p.m.

The Making a Difference Award was established in 2011 by the AHSAA and AHSADCA to recognize individuals who go beyond their normal duties as a coach, teacher, or administrator to make a positive impact in their schools and communities. This year’s recipients include one assistant principal, two athletic directors, a softball coach, volleyball coach and two assistant football coaches. The youngest recipient is 41 years old and the oldest 66.