Canyon Football Coach Forced to Quit

Bob Hughes, the winningest football coach in Canyon High’s history, was forced to resign Thursday.

Canyon Athletic Director Rob Alexander, who announced the resignation, said it was time for a change.

“It was an agreement between us,” Alexander said. “I can’t comment much.”

When contacted by The Times, Hughes--whose team went 1-9 in 1997--said he did not agree.

“I don’t know what [Alexander’s] thinking is on this,” said Hughes. “I just know it was not mutual. In no way did I want to leave after that kind of season.”

Hughes became the Canyon head coach in 1993, replacing Loren Shumer. He did not win a Century League title, but was the first Comanche coach to take a team into the playoffs four straight seasons.

He leaves with a record of 28-24-2. He will continue to teach at Canyon.

Alexander said Hughes’ last season was not the reason Hughes was forced out.

“Coach Hughes did some great things for the program and we have an appreciation for his efforts. This goes deeper than just one season and win-loss percentage. He wasn’t to blame for the 1-9 record. It’s just a matter of working with young kids. We had a young team.”

Craig Nance, a co-offensive coordinator on Hughes’ staff, said coaching under Hughes “has been a great experience and I learned a lot about working with kids in the game of football. I am sad to see him leave. I’m really grieved about it. He deserves to stay.”