In a move that signals continuity and a commitment to homegrown leadership, the Waxahachie ISD and the Waxahachie Indian football program have announced the promotion of Coach Lawrence Williams to head football coach. Formerly the team’s defensive coordinator, Coach Williams steps into the top role after former Coach Shane Tolleson’s move to Denton Ryan.

Coach Williams has been an integral part of the Indians football family for several seasons, shaping one of the program’s toughest defensive units and earning the respect of players, colleagues and the community.

As defensive coordinator, Coach Williams transformed the Indians defense into a force to be reckoned with. Under his guidance, the unit posted impressive numbers, including forging the way to the fourth round of the playoffs, and became known for its discipline, intensity and teamwork. Sophomore Taylen Strange and senior Jayquan Snell both agreed that this is the best decision that they could have made since Williams has already been in the program.

“He will be keeping the culture of the football team together,” Snell said.

Behind every great coach is a strong support system, and Coach Williams is no exception. His wife, Mrs. Karla Williams, a WHS Spanish teacher, has been a constant source of encouragement throughout his journey with the Indians program. She said that she is “excited” about this journey that he is about to embark on.

Looking ahead, the team plans to maintain the aggressive defensive identity that defined his tenure as coordinator by continuing to emphasize speed, physicality and disciplined execution, while also expanding the team’s overall balance and efficiency.  The team will likely remain focused on applying pressure, forcing turnovers and setting the tone early in games, but success also requires growth on offense and special teams as well.

“He will do whatever in his power to make us the best young men … and athletes that we can possibly be,” Strange, 10, said.

Offensively, this means improving consistency, protecting the football, developing key skill players and building a system that can both control the clock and create explosive scoring opportunities.

“I won’t promise a state championship, but I will preach it every day,” Coach Williams said, emphasizing the dedication he and his tribe of Indians carry throughout every day.

With a new district and more incoming players, the Indians are ready for anything new that could come their way this fall, and they are ready to represent the new Hach.