The Lake Hamilton School District Board of Education voted unanimously during a special-called meeting on Friday, January 9, 2026, to hire Justin Bigham as the next Head Football Coach at Lake Hamilton High School.
The Board’s decision followed an extensive search process that drew a large and highly qualified pool of applicants.
“We were fortunate to have an exceptionally large and highly qualified pool of applicants, which speaks volumes about the strength, reputation, and future potential of Lake Hamilton football,” said Dr. Tony Thurman, Superintendent of Lake Hamilton Schools. “I want to sincerely thank Athletic Director Kiley Hill for his leadership, guidance, and countless hours of work throughout this process. His commitment and professionalism were instrumental in helping us identify the right leader.”
Bigham brings head coaching and assistant coaching experience at multiple high school programs in Arkansas, having served in leadership roles across a variety of competitive classifications.
He played Division I football at the University of Mississippi. During his time at Ole Miss, he was a three-year starter under head coaches Houston Nutt and Hugh Freeze.
“I am truly honored and incredibly excited to be named the next head football coach of the Lake Hamilton Wolves,” Bigham said. “This is a special program with a proud tradition, and my family and I are fired up to become part of Wolf Nation. The pride, passion, and expectations of this community are powerful, and I’m excited to lead a program that means so much to its students, families, and fans.”
Coach Bigham will meet with the Lake Hamilton football coaching staff and football student-athletes on Monday, January 12.
The Lake Hamilton community will have the opportunity to meet Coach Bigham during the 80’s Throwback Dinner and Basketball Game on Tuesday, January 27. Coach Bigham will be available in the Lake Hamilton High School cafeteria from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. to meet fans during the dinner. Information about the dinner and game can be found at https://lhsd.info/throwback-bball-night
“From the beginning, we knew that when the right head coach emerged, it would be clear, and that moment was unmistakable,” Thurman said. “We were seeking a coach with a clear vision for building on a successful program, proven experience leading teams, and, most importantly, someone who genuinely wants to be part of Wolf Nation. Coach Bigham brings all of those qualities, and we are excited to welcome him and his family to the Lake Hamilton community.”