Hoover football coach Drew Gilmer resigns following release of controversial video

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. ( WIAT ) — Before playing a single down this season, two of the Hoover Buccaneers’ top coaches have left the team.

On Thursday, the Hoover City Board of Education accepted the resignations of head coach Drew Gilmer and defensive coordinator Adam Helms. Gilmer, who was hired at Hoover in January after seven seasons leading Clay-Chalkville High’s football team, was weeks away from starting his first game as head coach of the Buccaneers.

“The past few days have been extremely unsettling for many of our varsity football players, coaches, and the overall Hoover Community,” Hoover Athletic Director Harley Lamey said in a statement.

Following Gilmer and Helms’ resignations, Hoover Schools Superintendent Kevin Maddox said the safety and well-being of students and staff would continue to be a top priority for the school system.

“We maintain high expectations for our employees and students,” Maddox said in a statement. “At this time, our focus is dedicated to supporting our football players and coaching staff.”

On Tuesday, Gilmer and Helms were placed on administrative leave following footage of the coaches pushing players during a recent practice . One part of the video showed a coach thrusting his hope toward a player’s face while he was on the ground. Another showed a coach rushing at a player, knocking him down with his helmet coming off his head.

Gilmer was the Bucs’ third coach in the last four years. Offensive coordinator Chip English will remain as interim head coach for now.

The Bucs will play Western High School in Miami on Aug. 24.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL.