By Rick Phelps

Brownwood High School Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Chuck Howard announced his retirement this morning during a press conference at the administration building. Howard said the decision was based on what is best for family. “I feel at peace with myself with this decision,” Howard said. “But this is about family. Period. I had to come to peace with what was right.”

BISD Superintendent Dr. Joe Young discussed the situation. “The board and I fully hoped that Coach Howard would continue as our athletic director and head football coach. He has always had my unwavering support and was given a new two year contract by unanimous board vote in February. We hoped it would be one of many to come. We are sad to see Coach Howard leave.”

During the announcement, Howard discussed the upcoming school year. “This is about the 2016-17 Brownwood Lions and the legacy they want to leave,” Howard said. “They want to bring a sense of pride to the community and it will always be about the program and the kids. I will be their biggest fan.”

BISD Board President Michael Cloy said he was grateful to Howard. “We are proud of Coach Howard for what he’s done for the kids of Brownwood High School both in the classroom and on the field. He will be missed.”

Howard said he will be with the district until he finds employment elsewhere, which will allow him to tie up and some odds and ends.

“This is the best job in the state of Texas,” Howard said. “All of the programs are headed in the right direction. We have excellent coaches here.”

Howard said he does intend to continue coaching. “That is the plan for now.”