Julius "Coach Deuce" Gregory
Head Coach · Montgomery Catfish
The first Head Coach in franchise history, leading the Catfish into their inaugural 2027 American Arena League season.
Julius Gregory Named First Head Coach in Franchise History
The Montgomery Catfish name Julius "Coach Deuce" Gregory to lead the franchise into its inaugural 2027 American Arena League season.
MONTGOMERY, Ala. The Montgomery Catfish have announced the hiring of Julius Gregory as the first head coach in franchise history, marking another major milestone as the organization prepares for its inaugural American Arena League season in 2027.
A respected name in arena football, Gregory brings extensive experience as a player and a deep understanding of the indoor game. His knowledge of the fast paced arena style, combined with his leadership and passion for developing players, made him the clear choice to lead the Catfish into their first season.
Gregory's foundation extends well beyond the field. A proud graduate of Shaw University in Raleigh, North Carolina, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Recreation and Psychology, finishing his degree CUM LAUDE. That rare blend of academic distinction and elite athletic pedigree defines the standard of excellence he now brings to Montgomery.
"As we build this franchise from the ground up, it was important to find someone who truly knows arena football," said Christopher Smith, Owner of the Montgomery Catfish. "Coach Gregory has lived this game. He understands what it takes to compete, how to build a winning culture, and how to prepare players for success. We couldn't be more excited to have him become the first head coach in Montgomery Catfish history."
"I am deeply honored and profoundly humbled to accept the position of Head Coach for the Montgomery Catfish. I promise to bring relentless energy, discipline, accountability, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence to the field every single day. Our mission extends far beyond the scoreboard. We are here to build men of character, represent this community with pride, and establish a culture that demands the best of us. Let's build something special."
The Montgomery Catfish will kick off their inaugural season in the American Arena League in 2027.
For partnership opportunities and the latest team news, visit MontgomeryCatfish.com or follow the Montgomery Catfish on social media.
A Letter from
Coach Julius Gregory
To Montgomery, Our Players, and Our Fans
I am deeply honored and profoundly humbled to accept the position of Head Coach for the Montgomery Catfish Arena Football Team. To be entrusted with this responsibility and to lead this franchise into its inaugural 2027 season is a privilege I do not take lightly.
To the ownership and leadership of the Montgomery Catfish, thank you for believing in me and for your bold vision for what this team can become. I share that vision, and I am ready to work tirelessly to bring it to life.
To the city of Montgomery, you are getting more than a football team. You are getting a group of men who will represent this community with pride, toughness, and heart. We will play for the name on the front of the jersey and the city on our helmets.
To the players who will wear the Catfish uniform, come ready. Come hungry. Come to be coached, developed, and pushed. We are going to build something that matters on the field, in the locker room, and in this community.
To the fans, thank you in advance for the energy you’re going to bring. Arena football is a fan’s game, and we intend to give you a team worth showing up for.
This is only the beginning.
Let’s build something special.
Coach Julius “Coach Deuce” Gregory
Head Coach
Montgomery Catfish Arena Football