Shipley Thankful to have been Part of Brownwood Lion Tradition, Will Leave at End of Month

April 22, 2013 at 6:43 pm brownwoodnewsstaff

Sports

shipleywithteamarticle Although it was a difficult decision, Brownwood High School Athletics Director and Head Football Coach Bob Shipley will start in his new position at the University of Texas the first part of May.

According to Shipley, the decision to leave Brownwood was difficult, and it is a very special place to his family.

“It was a difficult decision. Brownwood has been so good to us,” said Shipley. “It’s tough to leave a place that’s been so special. Brownwood will always be home to Jaxon and Addie Jane.”

Shipley stated that he and his children, Jaxon and Addie Jane, took pride in being part of the Brownwood Lions tradition, which was one of the things he enjoyed most about his time in Brownwood.

“Just the way our kids, school and community all take such pride in being Brownwood Lions. The people that I’ve worked with, these other coaches are very special,” said Shipley. “I loved being around the kids. They and the coaches made this place very enjoyable. The administration, school board and community as a whole have been incredible.”

The highlight of his years at Brownwood High School, according to Shipley was the 2010 season.

“Obviously the 2010 season will be the highlight but really each year was special in its own way,” Shipley stated. “The one thing that I’ll always remember is the way these kids loved being Brownwood Lions and how lucky I was to be a small part of the tradition here.”

Shipley explained that his new position at UT was recently created within the player personnel department. He will be working mostly with the defense and assisting the team with their player personnel, but also be involved with high school relations.

“Coach Brown and I thought it would be a good fit for me. I’ve been around the program for almost 10 years with my boys playing there,” explained Shipley. “I have coached at the college level for 5 years so recruiting is something that I’m very comfortable with.”

Following the news of Coach Shipley’s decision, Dr. Reece Blincoe, Brownwood ISD Superintendent announced that Coach Chuck Howard will be recommended to the Brownwood ISD Board of Trustees for the Athletic Director/Head Football Coach position.

“I have a lot of respect for Coach Howard as a coach and a man. He’s not a guy who craves the limelight,” said Shipley. “He is a really hard worker, super competitive and loves kids. He doesn’t care who gets the credit. He pours a lot into kids’ lives that most people never see or hear about. I think he’ll do a great job.”

The Brownwood Independent School District Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting Thursday, April 25th at 12:30 p.m. to address Shipley’s resignation and replacement.