St. Aloysius Names James Goodman as Linemen Coach

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — St. Aloysius head football coach Bumper Brogdon has named James Goodman as the new offensive and defensive linemen coach for the Flashes. Goodman brings years of experience working with young athletes and steps into his first role at the varsity level this fall.

“I’ve always wanted to get into coaching because I love working with the youth—especially the little ones who didn’t understand the game of football,” Goodman said.

Goodman began coaching youth football more than a decade ago with the Vicksburg Buccaneers. He later volunteered with the Vicksburg Packers before returning to the Buccaneers, where he continues to coach today alongside his new responsibilities with St. Aloysius.

Although this marks Goodman’s first experience at the varsity level, he has high expectations for his players.

“I’m looking for toughness and helping the defensive line get to the football,” Goodman said. “On the offensive line, I’m looking for them to be greedy and nasty.”

A 1989 graduate of Vicksburg High School, Goodman played under former head coach Jim Sizemore and credited him for instilling mental and physical toughness. He was also coached by James Knox, Thomas Billups, Alonzo Stevens and Robert Erves.

Goodman recently retired from the Warren County Detention Center after 28 years of service, where mentoring youth remained central to his role.

“That job taught me a lot,” he said. “The youth are the people that you want to mold to be great.”

With his background in leadership and mentorship, Goodman is expected to bring a strong presence to the Flashes’ sidelines.