ALABASTER, Ala. — Thompson High School is excited to announce a leadership transition within its Track & Field program as Coach Mason Dye steps into a new role and Coach Kirby Walker is named the new Head Coach of Indoor and Outdoor Track & Field.
After a decade of service at Thompson — including the past four years as Head Track & Field Coach — Coach Dye will transition to Assistant Track & Field Coach, continuing to lead the distance program and support team operations. He will also remain the Head Cross Country Coach, where he has built one of Thompson's most respected programs.
"First and foremost, I'm not going anywhere," said Coach Dye. "I'll continue to coach our distance runners, support our staff, and help this program thrive. This isn't a goodbye — it's a passing of the baton to ensure our athletes continue to receive the focused leadership they deserve."
Thompson High School extends its deepest appreciation to Coach Dye for his years of leadership, dedication, and impact on countless student-athletes. His influence has helped shape the strong, successful program Thompson enjoys today.
Stepping into the head coach role, Coach Kirby Walker brings 18 years of coaching experience, including time as a collegiate head coach and as a Thompson assistant coach. Her experience, energy, and vision make her well-suited to guide the program into its next chapter.
"I'm honored to follow in Coach Dye's footsteps and continue building upon the strong foundation he's created," said Coach Walker. "My goal is to help every athlete grow on and off the track while maintaining the championship culture that defines Thompson athletics."
Vincent Pitts, Director of Athletics, added, "I want to thank Coach Kirby and Coach Dye for their commitment to Thompson Cross Country and Track & Field. We have grown substantially within the last seven years, and we're committed to the continued growth of all our programs. This transition marks an exciting step forward as Thompson's Cross Country and Track & Field programs evolve into two connected but distinct entities, each with dedicated, full-time leadership focused on long-term growth and success."
