Coaching Staff
Darryl Free
Headmaster /Boys Basketball Coach
Leading Hooper since: 2023
Colleges/Universities Attended: Southern New Hampshire University, Troy University
Degree(s) Held: B.S. Business/Sports Management, M.S. Sport & Fitness Administration/Management
Montgomery Advertiser’s 2023 Boys Basketball Coach of the Year (AISA-7A classifications)
2023 Alabama Sports Writers Assoc. AISA Basketball Coach of the Year
Marty Baker
Elementary PE/Asst. Football
Teaching Assignment: Elementary PE, Weightlifting, Varsity Athletics Teaching at Hooper since: 2019 Extra Curricular Activities/Duties: Head Football, Head Baseball
email: mbaker@hooperacademy.org
Jessi Hayes
Director of Student Services/ Secondary Science/Volleyball
Teaching Assignment: Director of Student Services/Secondary Science/Volleyball Teaching at Hooper since: 2015 Colleges/Universities Attended: Huntingdon College Degree(s) Held: BA Physical Education Extra Curricular Activities/Duties: Head Volleyball, Asst JV Girls Basketball
email: jhayes@hooperacademy.org
Jase Munroe
Secondary Math/Varsity Girls Basketball
Teaching Assignment: Secondary Math/Varsity Girls Basketball
email: jmunroe@hooperacademy.org
James Maury Popwell
Secondary History
Teaching Assignment: Secondary History Teaching at Hooper since: 2004 Colleges/Universities Attended: Central Al. Community College, Huntingdon College, Troy University Degree(s) Held: BS in Social Studies, minor in PE, Masters in Administration and Supervision
email: mpopwell@hooperacademy.org
Blake Walters
Middle School History/Track/Football
Coach Walters joined the Hooper faculty with the 2023-2024 school year. Blake coached football for 6 years, 5 with Edgewood and this past year at Fort Dale. He earned his Bachelor's Degree in Sports Management from AUM. Coach Walters will be teaching Middle School History and Spanish. He will serve as our Head JV Football Coach along with being a Varsity Football Assistant and the Head Track Coach.