02/08/2026
🎉 Introducing our Class of 2026 inductees — next up is Carolyn Wright!
A trailblazer in coaching and education, Carolyn Wright has spent over four decades shaping the lives of young athletes through excellence, discipline, and unwavering commitment. From her early days as a student-athlete to her storied coaching career, Carolyn’s legacy is one of inspiration and impact.
A graduate of Tuskegee Institute High School (1974), Carolyn excelled in cheerleading and volleyball. She continued her athletic and academic journey at Alabama State University, where she competed in volleyball, track, and cheerleading—earning both her B.S. (1978) and M.Ed. (1981) degrees.
Carolyn began her coaching career at McIntyre Junior High in Montgomery, Alabama, before launching a transformational 32-year career at Central High School in Phenix City (1991–2023). As Head Girls Track Coach (1991–2011) and Head Volleyball Coach (2002–2018), she amassed an impressive 593–375 record, winning 11 Area Titles, 4 Regional Titles, and making 4 Final Four appearances—cementing her reputation as one of the region’s most respected coaches.
Beyond coaching, Carolyn served as Associate Athletic Director for Phenix City Schools (2012–2021) and contributed to state athletic leadership through the AHSAA, including roles on the Strategic Planning, Volleyball Coaches, All-Star, and District 4 Basketball Committees. She was twice selected to coach in the AHSAA North/South All-Star Game.
Deeply committed to her community, Carolyn organized youth charity events, skill camps, and founded the annual Mary Jane Riley Volleyball Tournament in 2015. Her leadership extended well beyond the court—she was named Teacher of the Year in 2018–2019 and received numerous honors including All Bi-City Coach of the Year, the SportsVision Legacy Award, and multiple resolutions from the Phenix City Council.
With decades of service, championship leadership, and a heart for student-athletes, Carolyn Wright stands as a model of what it means to lead, teach, and inspire.
👏 Congratulations, Carolyn Wright!