Harrison Central names former Columbia DC Chris Fortenberry as next head football coach

GULFPORT, Miss. (WXXV) — Harrison Central High School has hired former Columbia defensive coordinator Chris Fortenberry as its next head coach.

Fortenberry helped lead the Wildcats to their third-straight title in 2025 following an undefeated season. He’s served as a defensive coordinator across the state for 15 years and was previously the head coach at Richton High School.

Fortenberry replaces Nekemia Rich, who resigned after two seasons with the Red Rebels.

The team will look to build off a 2025 season in which it finished with a 1-9 record.