The sideline at Central-Phenix City High will have a new leader next season.

Following a unanimous vote by the Phenix City Board of Education, Steve Rogers has been appointed as the Red Devils’ new head basketball coach. Rogers arrives at Central after a successful stint at Booker T. Washington High in Tuskegee.

Rogers brings a wealth of experience to the Red Devils program with Central marking his third stop on his high school coaching journey.

He began his career at Prattville High School (2020-2022) before taking the job at BTW in 2023. His Booker T. Washington squad posted an impressive 28-5 record this past season. One of those five losses came against Central.

“They beat us pretty good, but it ultimately prepared us for the playoffs,” Rogers shared in a Tuesday evening phone interview. “Coach (Charles) Burkett and I both recognized the need for that level of competition, and we made the game happen. Now, I’m excited to join the Central program and build upon the foundation Coach Burkett has established.”

Rogers is keenly aware of the significant roster turnover facing the Red Devils, who will be without 11 of the 13 players from a team that reached the Final Four for three consecutive years, including a run to the Class 7A championship game in 2023.

“I understand that we’re essentially starting anew, but that’s a challenge I embrace,” Rogers said. “My coaching background includes building programs, and Central has always been a program that has interested me. I’ve long recognized the caliber of talent here, and I’m eager to get on campus and begin working with the team.”