Houston County Coach Tanner Harris Departs for Florida Position

Houston County residents who follow regional high school sports will see a major change this winter. Houston County High School head football coach Tanner Harris is departing for a new coaching role in Florida, marking the end of his tenure after helping reshape the program's direction.

Although the move involves Houston County in Alabama, it still holds interest for sports fans and families in Houston who track coaching shifts across the Southeast. Leadership moves at this level often influence recruiting relationships, summer camps, and cross-state competition schedules.

Coach Harris' Departure and New Opportunity

Harris informed school officials that he accepted a coaching position at a Florida high school. He had led Houston County's program through several competitive improvement cycles, building momentum and community engagement.

According to regional reporting, the school will begin its search for a new football coach immediately. The transition arrives during a critical part of the off-season, when programs prepare for conditioning and player development plans.

While the school has not announced interim leadership, athletic administrators said they aim to keep student-athletes focused and supported during the hiring process.

Why It Matters for Houston

Coaching changes in nearby states often ripple into Texas recruiting networks. Many Houston-area trainers, athletic directors, and youth organizations maintain ties with programs across the Southeast. Because of this, leadership shifts may influence camp invitations, coaching clinics, and collaborative events.

Additionally, families who moved to Texas from the region often follow updates about their former schools, making the news relevant for a portion of the local community.

What’s Next

Houston County High School will likely announce a short list of candidates in the coming weeks. The hiring process could move quickly, since schools aim to provide stability before the spring training cycle.

Meanwhile, Harris will transition into his new Florida role, where he is expected to begin preparing for the upcoming season.

This article is a summary of reporting by Dothan Eagle. Read the full story here.