Tallulah Academy is pleased to announce the appointment of Ryan Williams as the school's new Head Football Coach, Head Baseball Coach, and Athletic Director, effective immediately.
Williams brings extensive coaching experience to his new role, having served as offensive coordinator under Bart Wood for the past three years. Most recently, he led the baseball program to remarkable success as head coach this past season, capturing a district championship and advancing to the runner-up position in the south state championship.
Prior to his tenure at Tallulah Academy, Williams coached at Porter's Chapel Academy under Blake Purvis for two years before joining TA as offensive coordinator, where the team advanced to the state championship in his first year.
"We are proud to have Coach Williams at the helm of Trojan Athletics and equally excited to have his commitment to our school leadership initiatives," said Headmaster Matthew Homan. "At Tallulah Academy, we expect a lot from our students on and off the field; and Coach Williams is integral to our team."
A multi-sport athlete at Warren Central High School, Williams excelled as a quarterback under head coach Robert Morgan Sr. His diverse athletic background gives him a unique understanding of the game from both player and coaching perspectives. Williams is committed to building a culture centered on leadership, school pride, and the development of well-rounded student-athletes, culminating in what he calls "Trojan Excellence."
Williams comes from a family with deep athletic and educational roots. His father, Gary Williams, played football at Warren Central High School and continued his career at the University of Ole Miss. His mother, Judy Williams, dedicated 37 years to education in the Vicksburg Warren school district, instilling in her son both a passion for working with young people and the belief that every child can be reached.
Williams' passion for education and his desire to "find a way to reach every student" reflects the profound influence of his mother's 37-year career as a well-known and respected educator in the Vicksburg Warren school district. Her dedication to educational excellence and her implementation of the Leader in Me Program at Redwood school shaped Williams' approach to leadership development. "She gave me the passion to love kids and taught me that you can find a way to every child," Williams said. "No child should be left behind." This maternal influence is evident in his commitment to instilling the kind of discipline that builds character and creates leadership in every aspect of the Tallulah Academy athletic system, carrying forward a family legacy of educational impact.
Before transitioning to coaching, Williams spent 14 years at International Paper as a pipe fitter welder, with his final four years overseeing the fire systems and emergency response team. This professional experience has equipped him with valuable leadership and crisis management skills that translate well to his athletic director role.
Williams and his wife Chelsey are proud parents of four children: Hunter, 13 and triplets Hank, Huck, and Kyndal, all age 7. The family's deep roots in the community and commitment to education align perfectly with Tallulah Academy's mission.
"I'm honored to take on this role and excited about the opportunity to build something special here at Tallulah Academy," Williams said.
"Our focus will be on developing not just great athletes, but outstanding young men and women who embody Trojan Excellence, representing our school and community with pride. My goal and passion is to help build and inspire the future of this great country.
Team sports go with you for the rest of your life. The memories you make with fellow teammates and schoolmates hold a special place in your heart."
Williams emphasizes his open door philosophy, believing that being an accessible ear for his team is crucial to their development. "I want our student-athletes to know they can come to me with anything," he explained. "My goal is to teach them accountability -- both to themselves and to each other. These life skills we're building through athletics are what will make them career ready when the time comes. Sports are just the vehicle; we're really preparing them for success in whatever path they choose."
"I am grateful for this opportunity and thankful for the support from my family and friends. I look forward to this great adventure,"
Williams added. "Always trust God's plan! There's only one way and that's through Him!"
