Craig Parrott

2019 Inductee

If any name is synonymous with Ridgeland athletics, particularly during the legendary career of Hall of Famer Mark Mariakis, that name would be Coach Craig Parrott.  Coach Parrott came to Ridgeland in 2000 following an illustrious collegiate coaching career as a coach.  As a Panther, he taught senior economics, served as assistant athletic director under then A.D. Chris Sikes, and coached girls' basketball.  Without a doubt, the highlight of his tenure as head girls basketball coach was the legendary 2003-04 season which his ladies compiled a 26-6 record and advanced to the final four of the GHSA state tournament at Georgia Tech.  In 2005, Coach Parrott accepted an administrative position at Ridgeland and was elevated to the position of Athletic Director where he remained until his retirement in 2014.  Under his oversight, Ridgeland High School emerged as an athletic powerhouse with several programs receiving births to compete in state tournaments, and of course, the 2012 football team led by Vonn Bell and Daryl Bridges advancing to the AAAA state championship game in the Georgia Dome.  Coach Parrott was appointed to the GHSA executive committee for three years and was honored as the 7-AAAA athletic director of the year.  Aside from these accomplishments, Coach Parrott is perhaps best known for his enthusiasm, sometimes fiery temperament, and creative vocabulary; despite his attempts at a tough exterior, many of those who played under him, including our [former] principal Mrs. Karen Hughes, could see right through to find a heart of goal absolutely devoted to the students of Ridgeland and to the integrity of the athletic department.  Coach Parrott remains a truly devoted member of the Panther Nation.  It is my honor to induct my friend and my mentor, Coach Craig Parrott, into the Ridgeland Hall of Fame class of 2019.

–Rob Stinson, 2019