![LJ Searcy Interim Head Football Coach]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1786224526/gainesvilleisdorg/c3midvtwmrycuazehgbl/LJSearcy.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1786224526/gainesvilleisdorg/c3midvtwmrycuazehgbl/LJSearcy.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1786224526/gainesvilleisdorg/c3midvtwmrycuazehgbl/LJSearcy.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1786224526/gainesvilleisdorg/c3midvtwmrycuazehgbl/LJSearcy.png","width":1200}])
Gainesville ISD has named Coach L.J. Searcy as the Interim Head Football Coach of the Gainesville Leopards for the 2026-27 football season.
A lifelong Gainesville resident, Searcy is a 2003 graduate of Gainesville High School and a 2007 graduate of East Texas A&M University. He is the proud father of three children: Konner (24), Karter (16), and Ellie (8).
Coach Searcy began his career with Gainesville ISD in 2016, serving as the Junior High Athletic Coordinator for three years. For the past six years, he has served as a teacher and Athletic Coordinator at Gainesville High School, where he has built strong relationships with students, staff, and families while helping develop the district's athletic programs.
“Coach Searcy's deep roots in Gainesville, combined with his years of dedication to our student-athletes, make him a natural choice to lead the Leopards during this transition,” said district leadership. “His commitment to excellence and understanding of our community will help ensure a seamless start to the upcoming season.”
As the Gainesville Leopards prepare to kick off the 2026-27 campaign, Coach Searcy's leadership, experience, and strong connection to the Gainesville community will provide continuity and stability for the football program while continuing the tradition of Leopard pride and excellence.
- ghs