Welcome to the Red Rebel family, Coach Chris Fortenberry

(January 30, 2026) – This afternoon, Harrison Central High School proudly introduced Chris Fortenberry as the new Head Football Coach of the HCHS Red Rebels. Harrison Central and the Harrison County School District hosted a Meet & Greet event to officially introduce Coach Fortenberry to the community.
 
Coach Fortenberry brings an impressive 24 years of coaching experience, including:
- 15 years as a Defensive Coordinator, highlighted by 10 playoff seasons
- 3 years of head coaching experience with 2 playoff appearances
- Selection to coach in the Bernard Blackwell Classic North/South All-Star Game
- Experience coaching in 3 South State Championship Games and 2 State Championship Games
 
Most recently, Coach Fortenberry comes off a historic 15-0 season as Columbia’s Defensive Coordinator, capped by a dominant 6-0 shutout victory over Kosciusko in the 4A State Championship Game.
 
“We are extremely excited about the level of experience and leadership Coach Fortenberry brings to Harrison Central. His proven success, commitment to building strong relationships, and focus on developing young men align perfectly with our vision for Red Rebel Football. We are confident he will help strengthen community connections, instill pride in our program, and continue building a culture of excellence both on and off the field,” said Harrison Central High Principal Rachel Burt.

 Coach Fortenberry is known for building disciplined, physical, and championship-caliber programs while emphasizing character, accountability, and community involvement—values that define Harrison Central High.
Please join us in welcoming Coach Chris Fortenberry to the Red Rebel family, as we look forward to an exciting future for Red Rebel Football!
 
Watch the WLOX story here: Harrison Central hires Columbia DC Chris Fortenberry as new head coach