Breaking: NMPreps.com has learned this morning that Artesia Head Football Coach Cooper Henderson has stepped down as Head Football Coach. (will continue his role as Athletic Director according to Henderson who we spoke to this morning). Henderson has been the Head Coach at Artesia High School since 1989 with an overall record of 293-103-1 and 14 State Championships. Comment on the message board here
Henderson Steps Down As Head Football Coach
"I grew up here, my father coached here, there is a great amount of pride in Artesia. When things are going well, it makes for a good transition. We have one of the best staffs that we've ever had here at Artesia, have a strong group coming back into the season, and while I still enjoy coaching I think this is a good time for a transition. I'll still maintain my position as Athletic Director so I'm just stepping down as Head Coach, but will still be active within Artesia High School Athletics," Said Henderson.
Henderson led the Bulldogs to back to back 5A state championships in 2014 and in 2015 and was named the National Coach of the Year by the National Federation of State High School Associations in 2015. Over the last two seasons Artesia is 24-2 and overall Artesia has won 29 State Football Championships. Henderson will remain the Athletic Director at Artesia High School.
"My wife says I'll miss coaching on Friday Nights, but I hope to continue to help the youth in some capacity. My wife Judy has been amazing throughout the years and I just wanted to publicly thank her for her continued support. She's maybe missed a handful of games since we've got married in 1979.
Henderson informed us that Artesia High School will accept applications as well as in-house applications during the Bulldog coaching search.
29 State Football Championships
Artesia Football has won 29 State Football Championships. 1957, 1964, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1978, 1980, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1987, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2006, 2007, 2010, 2014, 2015
