Ridgeland High Football Coach Mark Mariakis has been selected Coach of the Year. Earlier this year, Ridgeland High and coach came under attack from the Freedom From Religion Foundation, which accused Mariakis of leading the team in prayers and driving players to prepared meals at churches before games. Immediately, thousands threw their support to Mariakis in social media, emails, calls and in person. Mariakis'  team is  Georgia's runner-up State Champions in the 4AAA Division and  headlined the Coaches All-Region Seven Football Team for 2012. One of player was selected Player of the Year, while another was named Offensive Player of the Year and several  were named to the All Region First TEam.