Tyler ISD is proud to announce the appointment of Sam Gillispie as the district’s new Director of Athletics. Gillispie, a highly experienced athletic administrator and coach, has an extensive background in athletic leadership and is committed to student-athlete success, making him an outstanding choice to guide Tyler ISD’s athletic programs into the future. Coach Gillispie replaces Greg Priest, who, after a decade of success in Tyler, left in March for the same position in Rockwall ISD.
Gillispie brings a wealth of experience to the position, having served in various leadership roles across Texas high school athletics. His tenure includes positions as assistant athletic director for Tyler ISD since 2019, athletic director at multiple districts, and head coaching positions in multiple UIL sports, including decorated stints across those endeavors and a decorated coaching career across various sports. In these roles, he has demonstrated an exceptional ability to develop competitive programs, mentor student-athletes, and foster a culture of academic and athletic excellence.
“We are excited to have Sam ascend to Tyler ISD’s Director of Athletics,” said Dr. Marty Crawford, Superintendent of Tyler ISD. “Our athletic program has improved exponentially over the past decade with Coach Priest’s leadership and Coach Gillispie has been an important piece of that since 2019. He brings a high level of energy and work ethic, and his vision for athletic excellence and quality experiences for our athletes, coupled with his dedication to developing well-rounded student-athletes, aligns perfectly with our district’s goals. We look forward to seeing our programs continuously improve under his leadership while ensuring this Front Porch program remains competitive and enjoyable for our hometown school district patrons and fans.”
Throughout his career, Gillispie has been instrumental in overseeing athletic operations, scheduling, budgeting, and staff development. He played a key role in coordinating Tyler ISD’s middle school athletic programs and has been deeply involved in youth sports development. His leadership has also extended beyond the school district, having served as Director of the Nike Coach of the Year Clinic for the DFW area, where he facilitated professional development opportunities for high school and college coaches nationwide.
“I am honored to step into the role of Director of Athletics at Tyler ISD,” said Gillispie. “This district has a proud tradition of athletic excellence, and I look forward to working alongside our talented coaches, student-athletes, and the Tyler community to build on that foundation. Our focus will be on fostering a championship mindset, both in competition and in the classroom.”
Gillispie holds a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from the University of North Texas and a master’s degree in educational administration and leadership from Lamar University. He is an active member of the Texas High School Coaches Association (THSCA) and the Texas High School Athletic Directors Association (THSADA).
Gillespie says he is thankful to his wife Mandy and their daughter, Annie, for being his biggest supporters. Gillespie, who has been serving as acting Director of Athletics, will start his new role immediately.
For more information, contact Jennifer Hines at Jennifer.Hines@TylerISD.org.