Odom steps down as RHS boys basketball coach

RUSSELLVILLE — After 11 years at the helm of the head coach of the Russellville boys basketball program, Patrick Odom is slated to step down at the end of the school year.

Odom confirmed the move to the Franklin County Times after his decision appeared as an agenda item before the Russellville City Schools Board of Education.

He said he will not be retiring from teaching but simply stepping away from all coaching duties.

He currently serves as the boys golf coach as well.

Odom said he prayed about the decision for a lengthy period of time and finally decided to step away from coaching.

While his son is slated to graduate at the end of the current school year, Odom said he has two daughters still in high school and would like to simply enjoy their high school years.

“It’s something I’ve been dealing with for a while,” Odom said. “With my girls still in school I’m still going to be around and involved. I’m just not going to be doing any coaching.”

Over the course of his 27-year coaching career, Odom posted a record of 431-300 with a total of 14 area titles between stops at Shoals Christian, Belgreen and Russellville.

While he’ll be in the stands as a fan when the Golden Tigers tip off next season, Odom said he will miss the connections he cultivates with his players.

He’s also proud to leave behind what could be considered as one of the most stable, winning periods in the program’s history.

“It’s always been about the kids and I’ll miss those relationships with those guys,” Odom said. “If you look at my 11 years here, I’m very proud of it. I really never talk about myself, but I think it’s one of the most consistent periods for Russellville basketball’s history and I’m very happy with that.”

The Franklin County Times reached out to RCS Superintendent Tim Guinn for comment on the process to replace Odom. Those requests were not returned by time of publication.