Farewell to a Beloved Coach: A.J. Howard's Legacy at Houston Academy

In a bittersweet announcement, the Houston Academy community is bidding farewell to a beloved figure, Coach A.J. Howard, as he steps away from his role in the Raiders athletics program to pursue new opportunities. After 11 devoted years of service, Coach Howard's departure marks the end of an era, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless students and athletes.

Inspiring Excellence on and off the Field

A Multifaceted Leader

Coach A.J. Howard's impact on the Houston Academy community extends far beyond the confines of the playing field. As the head football coach, he was a constant presence, leading the team onto the field and delivering motivational speeches that ignited the players' passion. But his influence didn't stop there. He also served as the head baseball coach, guiding the team through a successful inaugural season last year. On top of these responsibilities, he was actively involved in leading workouts and training sessions for multiple sports, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the development of the school's athletes.

A Decorated Athlete Turned Mentor

Coach Howard's own athletic prowess is a testament to his dedication and skill. As a left-handed pitcher for the Troy Baseball team, he left an indelible mark, hitting an impressive .555 and posting an ERA of 0.57 with 141 strikeouts during his junior year. His senior year was equally impressive, with an ERA of 1.46 and a batting average of .515. Howard's achievements earned him All-state recognition in his sophomore, junior, and senior years, and he even found himself third on the state record list for career strikeouts with 482.

Leaving a Lasting Legacy

In his farewell statement, Coach Howard expressed his deep gratitude to the Houston Academy community, acknowledging the support, dedication, and passion of the players, staff, and students he had the privilege of working with. He praised the resilience and commitment to excellence displayed by his athletes, and he credited the collaborative efforts of his fellow coaches and staff for creating an environment where the students could thrive.

A Bright Future Ahead

While Coach Howard's departure will undoubtedly be felt by the Houston Academy community, he leaves behind a legacy of success and a program poised for continued growth. He expressed confidence in the Raiders football team's potential for a state title this season, and he looks forward to cheering on the teams from afar as he embarks on a new chapter in his professional journey.

Honoring a Transformative Presence

As Coach A.J. Howard bids farewell to Houston Academy, the community he has served so tirelessly will undoubtedly miss his unwavering dedication, his inspirational leadership, and his profound impact on the lives of the students and athletes he has mentored. Though his departure marks the end of an era, the lessons and experiences he has imparted will continue to shape the future of the Raiders athletics program and the lives of those he has touched.