GAINESVILLE - Josh Niblett has stepped down as the head football coach at Gainesville High School. After four successful seasons leading the program, Niblett is departing to pursue an opportunity at the collegiate level.

Since his arrival in the Spring of 2021, Niblett has been instrumental in revitalizing a longstanding Red Elephant football tradition of excellence and standard of success. Under his leadership, Gainesville went 45-9 and returned to the forefront of Georgia high school football, securing two region titles and making two appearances in state championship games (2022 and 2025).

"Coach Niblett’s impact on our program, our school, and our community over the last four years cannot be overstated," said Gainesville Athletic Director Adam Lindsey. "He brought a championship culture and a tireless work ethic every single day. While we are sad to see him go, we are incredibly grateful for the foundation he has built and wish him and his family nothing but the best as they begin this next chapter."

Before becoming the 20th football coach in Gainesville football’s storied history, Niblett served as head of the Hoover, Oneonta, and Oxford programs in Alabama. He went a combined 236-58 over 22 seasons, 14 at Hoover, and won seven state championships; six at Hoover and one at Oneonta.

The search for the next head coach of the Red Elephants will begin immediately.