Steve Wells announces his retirement at Liberty-Eylau

 

Steve Wells officially retired as Liberty-Eylau’s athletic director and head football coach last Thursday night at an LEISD board meeting.

Wells asked local media outlets not to release the news of his retirement until he talked to his coaching staff Monday morning, and his players later that day.

Liberty-Eylau played 64 games in five seasons under Wells, only two wins shy of state championships in 2014 and 2015. His teams qualified for the postseason all five years despite playing one of the toughest schedules in the state each season.

The Leopards’ 2018 schedule was rated the second toughest in Texas, but L-E survived a losing record to go two rounds deep into the playoffs.

L-E 36-28 during Wells’ tenure

“It’s just time; we’ve had a lot of wonderful things happen at Liberty-Eylau the past five years,” said Wells, who was 36-28 at L-E. “We got a lot accomplished as far as facilities, and then we’ve had some success on the field. Someone is fixing to get a really good job.

“I”m going to take a year off, and see how I like retirement. I’m going to play a little golf, and do a little fishing. I’ve also got some rental property I want to work on. If I miss coaching bad in a year, I might go back. It’ll be in Texas if I do. It’s been a great ride eating, breathing and living L-E.”

Superintendent Ronnie Thompson confirmed Monday was Wells’ last day on the job at L-E.

“Steve had a good career at Liberty-Eylau,” said Thompson. “We wish him the best on his retirement, and moving forward.

“We worked with him well on some facility upgrades that were much needed. Our enhanced facilities reflects how we all feel about the kids, and wanting them to have some top-notched places to practice and workout.”

L-E begins search for Wells’ replacement

Thompson indicated the dual position is posted. He emphasized there is no timeline on finding Wells’ replacement.

“It’s a truly open position and we’ll be screening applicants, and moving forward with interviews,” said Thompson. “We’re going to look for the right candidate. Obviously, we want to get the right fit more than anything, and get it right. We don’t want to rush through it.”

An interim will not be named.

“The different head coaches know that,” added Thompson. “Certain individuals have responsibilities. We had a district track meet coming up at L-E, and there will be somebody in charge of that.

Wells was the 10th head football coach at Liberty-Eylau since 1956.

“Counting my student teaching, it’s been 30 years, and it’s time for a break,” concluded Wells. “The future for L-E in football looks good. I think they’re really fixing to be good. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished at L-E.”