Celebrated Coach to Lead Orange Beach Basketball Program

R. Ken Cooper • April 12, 2024

Orange Beach Welcomes Basketball Coach William Christopher Laatsch

Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – Orange Beach City Schools has announced the appointment of William Christopher Laatsch as the new Head Varsity Boys' Basketball Coach. Laatsch comes to the district with an impressive record of achievements on the courts.

Laatsch previously served as the head coach at Spain Park High School. His coaching career also includes tenures at Helena High School, Briarwood Christian School, and UMS-Wright Preparatory School.

A graduate of the University of Montevallo, Laatsch has 30 years of experience as a coach and educator. During his career, he has led his teams to state playoff appearances in four of the last five years, reaching the Elite Eight, and making it to the Final Four three times in the last four years.

Laatsch's earned the prestigious titles of Shelby County Coach of the Year in 2018, 2022, and 2023, as well as Birmingham Region Coach of the Year in 2018. As of Spring 2024, Laatsch has a total of 496 career wins.

Beyond the court, Laatsch has served as a District 5 Basketball Committee Representative for the AHSAA from 2018 to 2024.

Superintendent Randy Wilkes expressed excitement about the new appointment, stating, "We are excited to welcome Coach Laatsch to our team. He brings a wealth of experience and unmatched knowledge to the position. His character and integrity are a good fit for the vision of our program. Orange Beach City Schools is committed to excellence in all areas, and we believe Coach Laatsch will be instrumental in guiding our basketball program to new heights".

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