Larry Tidwell: Coach, Career, & Obituary
What defines a life well-lived? Is it measured in accolades, in victories, in the lives touched along the way? For Larry Tidwell, the answer seems to be a resounding "yes" on all counts. His journey, woven through the tapestry of basketball courts and classrooms, speaks to a dedication to sport, family, and community that resonates far beyond the final buzzer.
From the humble beginnings of McNairy County, Tennessee, where he was born on August 10, 1941, to the vibrant energy of Texas high school gyms and the roaring crowds of NCAA Division I arenas, Tidwells path has been one of consistent dedication and remarkable achievement. He wasnt just a coach; he was a builder, a mentor, a figure who shaped not only games but also the futures of countless young athletes.
[table id=1 /]Tidwells coaching career began to take shape in the late 1980s and early 1990s in Schulenburg, Texas, where he spent eight years as the high school athletic director. This period laid the foundation for his future success, allowing him to hone his leadership skills and develop his unique coaching philosophy. It was a time of building, of establishing a culture of excellence that would become a hallmark of his career.
His subsequent move to the collegiate level marked a new chapter, one filled with both challenges and triumphs. At Lamar University, he led the womens basketball team for six seasons, culminating in being named the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches (TABC) NCAA Division I Women's Coach of the Year in 2010. This recognition solidified his place among the elite coaches in the state and set the stage for even greater achievements.
In 2013, the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) tapped Tidwell to lead their womens basketball program. He embraced the opportunity, bringing his wealth of experience and his unwavering commitment to player development. He once again achieved the pinnacle of coaching success, earning the TABC Coach of the Year award in 2015. His ability to build winning programs, not just once but twice at the NCAA Division I level, cemented his legacy as one of the most accomplished coaches in Texas basketball history.
Tidwells impact extends far beyond the wins and losses recorded in the official stats. He served on the boards of both the TABC and the Texas Girls Coaches Association, tirelessly advocating for the growth and advancement of girls basketball. His commitment to the sport, to the young women he mentored, and to the coaching profession itself is a testament to his character and his passion.
The story of Larry Tidwell is not just about basketball; its about the power of dedication, the importance of mentorship, and the lasting impact one person can have on a community. He is a testament to the idea that true success is measured not just by the trophies won, but by the lives touched along the way.
Even in his later years, Tidwell remained active in the sport he loved, serving as the head coach for the Schulenburg High School women's basketball team. His commitment to the game and to the development of young athletes never wavered. In June 2023, the Schulenburg City Council recognized his long and distinguished career with a special proclamation, a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to the sport of basketball.
The information surrounding Larry Tidwells life paints a picture of a complex and accomplished individual, from his early days in Tennessee to his coaching success in Texas. While some details may vary across online sources, the core narrative remains consistent: a dedicated coach, a loving father and grandfather, and a man who made a significant impact on the world of basketball.
