Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – Orange Beach City Schools has appointed Chris Laatsch as their new Assistant Athletic Director. The announcement came Wednesday as school officials welcomed the veteran coach to his expanded role within the athletics program.

Laatsch, who will continue coaching the Boys Basketball team, brings over 30 years of experience to the position. He will work alongside Athletic Director Shane Alexander to support all sports programs at the school.

"I am extremely honored to serve our school community in this new role," Laatsch said. He expressed excitement about the school's new athletic facilities, which he believes "rival any in the state."

Since joining Orange Beach, Laatsch has already made history by leading the boys basketball team to their first-ever Elite Eight appearance. This achievement came during his first season with the Makos.

Before coming to Orange Beach, Laatsch built successful programs across Alabama. His teams advanced to the Final Four three times in the four seasons before he joined the Makos.

His impressive career includes coaching positions at Spain Park High School, Helena High School, Briarwood Christian School, and UMS-Wright Preparatory School. He has also held administrative roles as Athletic Director at Helena and Associate Athletic Director at Spain Park.

In December 2024, Laatsch reached a major milestone with his 500th career win. By the end of the 2024-2025 season, he had accumulated 513 victories.

Laatsch has been recognized multiple times as Shelby County Coach of the Year and Birmingham Region Coach of the Year. He currently serves as President of the Alabama Association of Basketball Coaches.

Athletic Director Shane Alexander praised Laatsch's appointment, saying, "I have a tremendous amount of respect for Coach Chris Laatsch, both as a leader and as a person."

The school district continues to invest in building its athletics program with strong leadership and resources. Laatsch's appointment represents another step forward in this ongoing mission.