Fort Dale basketball coach William Johnson will be leaving his post and heading to Pike Liberal Arts School in Troy in the fall.

Fort Dale Headmaster David Brantley said he wishes Johnson well.

The school expects to choose a new coach within the next week, he said.

Johnson says he’s looking forward to helping PLAS build their program.

“They are hungry to win some boy’s basketball games,” Johnson said. “I’m excited to be able to put my stamp on a program.”

Johnson said the job will involve similar responsibilities as his Fort Dale position, as he will be both teaching science and coaching basketball. Also, Johnson said he will have the opportunity to continue working on his master’s degree at Troy University.

“I hate to leave Greenville, because I got so many friends and memories from here,” Johnson said. “It’s just time for a change.”

Johnson is a native of Greenville and a graduate of Fort Dale Academy. He coached both the Eagles and Lady Eagles during his tenure at FDA. He served for three years as boys and girls varsity coach and was an assistant under former coach Reggie Mantooth for four years prior to taking the head job.