The UIL State Executive Committee suspended Gainesville (TX) head football coach Neil Searcy for the 2026 season Thursday, Aug. 6, for a "willful decision" to violate offseason practice rules. The team has been docked four preseason practice days, from Aug. 7 to Aug. 11, and will be unable to participate in its Aug. 13 scrimmage against Frisco Legacy Christian.
Searcy, who has spent four years at the helm of the Texas program, held six one-hour workouts in May, during which athletes wore helmets and shoulder pads. He self-reported to the District Executive Committee after the Gainesville superintendent found out about the practices.
Per UIL rules, Class 4A programs are not allowed to conduct spring workouts with contact equipment.
Searcy, who was also placed on probation for three years, will retain his position as the district's athletic director. During Thursday's hearing, he apologized for a "lack of judgement."
On the field, Gainesville's program has been struggling, with the Leopards going 1-9 last season and being outscored 523-144.
#program
Searcy, who has spent four years at the helm of the Texas program, held six one-hour workouts in May, during which athletes wore helmets and shoulder pads. He self-reported to the District Executive Committee after the Gainesville superintendent found out about the practices.
Per UIL rules, Class 4A programs are not allowed to conduct spring workouts with contact equipment.
Searcy, who was also placed on probation for three years, will retain his position as the district's athletic director. During Thursday's hearing, he apologized for a "lack of judgement."
On the field, Gainesville's program has been struggling, with the Leopards going 1-9 last season and being outscored 523-144.
#program
3 months ago
