BREAKING NEWS: Texas Tech Football Head Coach Joey McGuire Officially Announces His Retirement
In a heartfelt and emotional press conference held earlier today, **Texas Tech University’s head football coach Joey McGuire** officially announced his **retirement from coaching**, marking the end of a vibrant and impactful era in Red Raiders football history. After years of dedication to both high school and college football, McGuire has decided to step away from the sidelines to focus on his family, health, and the next chapter of his life.
### A Shocking but Respectful Farewell
The announcement came as a surprise to many within the college football community, though murmurs about McGuire possibly considering retirement had circulated in recent months. Dressed in a Red Raiders polo, visibly emotional, McGuire addressed the media, players, alumni, and fans in an open and sincere manner:
> “This decision didn’t come easy. Texas Tech has been more than a job — it’s been a family. But after many conversations with my loved ones and serious reflection, I know in my heart that it’s time to step away. I’ve always preached to my players about giving your all, and now it’s time to give my all to my family and to myself.”
His voice cracked as he thanked the Texas Tech administration, coaching staff, players, and the entire Lubbock community for embracing him since he arrived.
### McGuire’s Legacy at Texas Tech
Joey McGuire took over the Texas Tech football program in **2021**, following a successful career as a high school coach in Texas and an assistant stint at Baylor. His appointment was met with enthusiasm, largely due to his relentless energy, deep ties to Texas high school football, and his reputation as a master recruiter.
In just a few seasons, McGuire transformed the Red Raiders into a formidable and competitive team in the **Big 12 Conference**, restoring pride and identity to a program that had long craved stability and momentum. Known for his passionate sideline demeanor, bold decision-making, and connection with players, McGuire quickly won over fans and media alike.
Under his leadership, Texas Tech earned bowl appearances, including a memorable win in the **2022 Texas Bowl**, and climbed the conference rankings with several high-profile upsets against traditional powerhouses. More than just wins, McGuire emphasized building a culture of **accountability, toughness, and unity** — and that culture resonated deeply with his players.
### Players and Staff React
As word of McGuire’s retirement spread, players past and present flooded social media with tributes, gratitude, and admiration.
**Tyler Shough**, former Red Raiders quarterback, tweeted:
> “Coach McGuire changed my life. A leader, a mentor, and one of the most genuine people I’ve ever known. Red Raider Nation will never forget what you brought to this program.”
Defensive captain **Dadrion Taylor-Demerson** added:
> “Coach believed in us before the world did. That’s legacy.”
Assistant coaches and staff members praised McGuire not only for his football knowledge but for his human approach to leadership. Many described the environment he cultivated as “family-first” and “transformative.”
### Texas Tech Administration Responds
University President **Lawrence Schovanec** and Athletic Director **Kirby Hocutt** both spoke at the press conference, expressing deep appreciation for McGuire’s contributions.
> “Joey McGuire’s impact on this university extends far beyond the football field,” said Hocutt. “He brought integrity, passion, and an unmatched work ethic. Texas Tech is a better place because of him.”
The school also confirmed that McGuire will remain involved with Texas Tech in a yet-to-be-defined **advisory or ambassador role**, offering continued support to the athletic department and mentoring young coaches.
### The Search for a Successor Begins
With the 2025 season approaching, Texas Tech now faces the critical task of finding McGuire’s replacement. While no immediate interim coach has been named, several internal candidates are expected to be considered, including **offensive coordinator Zach Kittley** and **defensive coordinator Tim DeRuyter**, both of whom were instrumental in the program’s recent success.
Externally, Texas Tech’s improved profile under McGuire could make the head coaching job a very attractive opportunity for high-level coordinators and head coaches from Group of Five and Power Five programs alike.
Hocutt assured fans that the search process would be **thorough, strategic, and swift**, emphasizing the desire to maintain the momentum McGuire helped build.
### A Career Worth Celebrating
Before arriving at Texas Tech, Joey McGuire had already built a storied legacy in Texas high school football, particularly at **Cedar Hill High School**, where he led the program to **three state championships**. His success at the high school level was widely credited with elevating his players both academically and athletically.
At Baylor, he served under Matt Rhule and later Dave Aranda, playing a pivotal role in the Bears’ recruiting success and cultural reset. McGuire’s journey from high school coaching legend to Power Five head coach is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and passion.
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### Final Words: The Heart of a Coach
Joey McGuire’s retirement leaves behind a vacuum that will not easily be filled, but also a blueprint that will guide Texas Tech football for years to come. His commitment to players, his belief in the potential of Texas football, and his unapologetic love for the game made him not just a coach — but a movement.
> “Once a Red Raider, always a Red Raider,” McGuire said as he concluded his remarks. “Thank you, Texas Tech. I’ll be cheering from the stands, with my heart still on that field.”
As Red Raider Nation reflects on McGuire’s legacy, one thing is clear: **Joey McGuire didn’t just lead a team — he built a family, and that family will carry his legacy forward.**
**Thank you, Coach.**
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