Denton ISD Athletic Director Announces Retirement

Joey Florence to step down after over 30 years in Texas education

Apr. 11, 2026 at 2:34am

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting the chaotic energy and overlapping perspectives of a high school sports competition, rendered in a palette of deep blues, greens, and reds.The retirement of a legendary Texas high school sports administrator signals a new era of leadership and change for Denton ISD athletics.Denton Today

Joey Florence, the athletic director for Denton Independent School District in Texas, has announced his retirement effective at the end of June 2026. Florence has had a storied career in Texas public education, serving as a head football coach for over 20 years and leading several teams to state championship appearances.

Why it matters

Florence's retirement marks the end of an era for Denton ISD athletics. As athletic director, he oversaw unprecedented growth and success across the district's sports programs. His departure will leave a significant void that the district will need to fill in order to maintain the high standards he established.

The details

During his tenure as Denton ISD's athletic director since 2014, Florence has been credited with leading the district's athletic programs to new heights. Prior to that, he had a successful 20-year career as a head football coach, compiling an overall record of 205-53 and becoming one of the winningest high school football coaches in Texas history.

  • Joey Florence will retire at the end of June 2026.
  • Florence first joined Denton ISD in 2000 as Ryan High School's head football coach.

The players

Joey Florence

The retiring athletic director of Denton Independent School District, who has had a storied 30-year career in Texas public education, including over 20 years as a highly successful high school football coach.

Susannah O'Bara

The superintendent of Denton Independent School District, who praised Florence's leadership and impact on the district's student-athletes.

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What they’re saying

“I will forever be grateful for my time in Denton and with Denton ISD. To the students, coaches, administrators, and Board of Trustees—both past and present—thank you for trusting me with the opportunity to pursue my passion for kids and public education. Serving this community has been one of the greatest honors of my life. I have been truly blessed.”

— Joey Florence, Retiring Athletic Director, Denton ISD

“Coach Florence has been the standard of excellence in Denton ISD athletics for more than two decades. His leadership extends far beyond wins and championships. He has built a culture rooted in integrity, accountability, and the holistic development of our student-athletes. His impact on the lives of young people across our district is immeasurable, and while he will be deeply missed, his legacy will continue to shape Denton ISD athletics for generations to come.”

— Susannah O'Bara, Superintendent, Denton ISD

What’s next

Denton ISD will begin the process of searching for a new athletic director to replace the retiring Joey Florence and continue the district's strong athletic tradition.

The takeaway

Joey Florence's retirement marks the end of an era for Denton ISD athletics, as he leaves behind a legacy of excellence, integrity, and a deep commitment to developing student-athletes both on and off the field. The district will have big shoes to fill as it searches for his successor.