Tyler Legacy head coach Joe Willis announced his retirement after 30 years in education/coaching. Willis’ departure now leaves both Tyler ISD head coaching jobs open, as Tyler High head coach Ricklan Holmes resigned his post in December.

Willis had been a head coach for fourteen seasons with stops at Iraan, Cedar Park, Colleyville Heritage and Tyler Legacy, he retires with a career record of 113-62 and a state title as head coach as he guided Cedar Park to a state title victory in 2012 and he also led the Timberwolves to a state title game appearance in 2014.

Willis spent the last three seasons at Tyler Legacy and in 2020 and 2021 led the Red Raiders to the area round of the playoffs, which was Legacy’s first playoff win in eleven years. Willis’ teams posted at least ten wins in five seasons, his teams won six district title and his teams appeared in the playoffs in twelve of his fourteen seasons as a head coach. Coach Willis was named Dave Campbell’s Texas Football Class 4A Coach of the Year in 2012.

“I want to thank Tyler Legacy High School and the many wonderful players, teachers and administrators I have been able to serve during my time here. I’m proud of the progress our staff and players have made over the past three seasons. I am especially proud of our program being recognized in a National High School Academic excellence award as well as seeing seven of our players achieve full scholarships to play college football at the highest level. My family has enjoyed our time in Tyler and have made many friendships that we will cherish. This decision, while a difficult one will allow me to continue my own education and pursue lifetime goals in my second career,” said Coach Willis in a statement.

Tyler ISD is expected to post this job opening this week and most sources indicate they will begin the search immediately as TISD is expected to make a hire at Tyler High at the next board meeting in January.