Mike Justice is one of Mississippi’s most successful high school football coaches, with a career defined by championships, leadership, and a profound impact on generations of players and coaches. A native of Fulton, Mississippi, Justice compiled a remarkable career record of 297 wins and 98 losses over 35 seasons, coaching in both Mississippi and Alabama. His teams captured four state championships—at Calhoun City, Louisville (twice), and Madison Central—and 16 district titles. Justice was honored three times as Mississippi High School Football Coach of the Year and 16 times as District Coach of the Year.

Justice’s 1999 Madison Central team is often regarded as his masterpiece. That squad went a perfect 15-0, claimed the Class 5A state championship, and was ranked No. 12 nationally by USA Today. The team featured future NFL players, including Chris Spencer, Parys Haralson, Mike Espy, Doug Buckles, and standout kicker Stephen Gostkowski. Justice served as both head coach and athletic director, building Madison Central’s athletic program from the ground up and leading it to multiple All-Sports trophies.

His coaching journey also included notable stints at Calhoun City, Louisville, Gulfport, Oxford (AL), and Anniston (AL). He was inducted into the Mississippi Association of Coaches Hall of Fame in 2007, the Itawamba Community College Athletic Hall of Fame in 2002, and the Northeast Mississippi Coaches Hall of Fame. Known as a mentor, Justice’s coaching tree includes several state championship-winning coaches, such as Lance Pogue and Brad Embry.

Beyond the field, Justice played a role in shaping academic and athletic standards in the state, helping craft the MHSAA’s “No Pass, No Play” rule. His dedication to the game, both on the sidelines and in shaping its future, cements his legacy as a true giant of Mississippi high school football.