Durell Mock was a graduate of Talledega High School in 1949 where he played football and was a member of the track team.

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Following high school he was awarded a football scholarship to Florence State Teachers College letteringfour years playing both offense and defense for the Lions. He was the most valuable lineman in 1952, captain for two years and was selected to the All-40's UNA team. He served in the United States Army and played service football for two years at Fort Jackson, South Carolina.

 

After College and a tour in the Army, Coach Mock became the head football coach at Marion County High School in Guin, Alabama.. He moved on to Deshler in 1959 as an assistant coach and then to Muscle Shoal in 1960 to become the athletic director, football and baseball coach. While at Muscle Shoals, he took the lead in building the stadium and sodding the field with the help of the community and players. He also started the first booster club and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Durell coached in the 1960 Alabama All-Star football game and  the Fieldhouse at Muscle Shoals iis named for him. He served as an assistant football coach at Florence State and was named head coach of the Lions in 1970. At Florence state he assisted in designing the practice field and organizing the Gulf South Conference.