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Hubbard Forced Out

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By NICK WILLIAMS

nwilliams@tampatrib.com

Published: December 16, 2008

TAMPA - Harry Hubbard was told Monday by the Middleton High administration that he is no longer the school's football coach.

This come on the heels of a 2-8 season, the worst in Hubbard's six years as coach.

"I was surprised," Hubbard said. "I'm no longer the head coach. I was told they wanted to go in a different direction."

When asked if you could call it a termination, Hubbard said "you'd have to get all of that from the administration."

Middleton athletic director Derrick Gaines would not comment on why Hubbard was removed as coach, but said he expects to begin interviewing applicants after the holiday break.

"He's a good man," Gaines said. "He's done a lot for Middleton and for Middleton football. We wish him the best of luck in all his future endeavors."

Hubbard was 38-33 in six years at Middleton. In 2004, he led the program to the Class 4A-Region 3 final. Middleton reopened in 2002.

"I feel good because I gave my all," Hubbard said. "I have nothing to feel regret or anger about. God has other plans for me."

Hubbard said he will continue to teach driver's education at Middleton until the end the school year. After that, he will search for a coaching, and/or, teaching position at another school.

"I want to coach, no ifs, ands or buts about it," Hubbard said. "I may end up at the college level, you never know."

One other coach in the county reacted to Hubbard's stepping down.

"Harry is a class act, all the way," Hillsborough High coach Earl Garcia said. "I hope he's staying in coaching. He's good for the kids."

Reporter Nick Williams can be reached at (813) 259-7851.

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