Keith Henderson
Class of 2008
Keith Henderson built a reputation as a versatile athlete and respected coach whose career reflects dedication to sports, education and community.
A 1985 graduate of Butler High School, Henderson was a multi-sport standout who excelled in football, wrestling and track. His athletic ability and determination earned him All-City honors in all three sports. On the football field he played under coach Leonard Thomas, developing into one of Butler’s most dependable linemen. Henderson’s performance in the trenches earned him recognition as the team’s Most Valuable Offensive Lineman twice during his high school career.
Following graduation, Henderson continued his football career at Jacksonville State University. As a member of the Gamecocks program from 1985 through 1989, he became part of one of the most successful stretches in school history. Henderson started an impressive 46 consecutive games during his collegiate career, demonstrating both durability and leadership along the offensive line.
During his junior and senior seasons, Jacksonville State captured back-to-back Gulf South Conference championships. The 1989 Gamecocks finished with an outstanding 13-0-1 record and advanced to the NCAA Division II National Championship game, one of the most memorable seasons in program history.
Henderson earned All-Gulf South Conference honors twice and served as team captain during his senior year. His contributions were later recognized in 2003 when he was named First Team Center on Jacksonville State’s All-Centennial Football Team.
After completing his playing career, Henderson remained at Jacksonville State as a graduate assistant coach. Working with offensive linemen and strength programs, he helped the Gamecocks capture two more Gulf South Conference championships and the 1992 NCAA Division II National Championship.
Henderson later returned to Huntsville, where he began a coaching career that has spanned more than 15 years. Much of that time has been spent at Grissom High School, where he has coached football, wrestling and track while mentoring student-athletes.
He credits his parents, Jimmy and Gale Henderson, for instilling the values of faith, commitment and perseverance. Henderson and his wife, the former Cari Robinson, are the parents of five children: Emily, Hayden, John-David, Hillary and Harper.
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