Coach Bobby Woodard Inducted into the South East Texas Coaches Association (SETCA) Hall of Honor

January 12, 2026 - Coach Bobby Woodard built a legendary career rooted in passion, discipline, and a lifelong commitment to student-athletes. It’s one that has now earned him induction into the South East Texas Coaches Association Hall of Honor.

A 1972 graduate of Silsbee High School, Coach Woodard was a standout athlete in football, baseball, and track. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and Health from Lamar University in 1976 and soon began his coaching career at Silsbee ISD under the leadership of Coach Ray McGallion.

Coach Woodard established an extraordinary legacy at Silsbee spanning almost four decades. He served as the Tigers’ defensive line coach, helping guide the football program to multiple playoff appearances. His leadership extended across multiple sports, including two years as head baseball coach, ten years as head track coach, and twelve years as head golf coach. Under his direction, the Silsbee girls’ golf team advanced to the state tournament three times, and he was twice named South East Texas Coaches Association Girls Golf Coach of the Year.

One of the most meaningful chapters of his career was coaching alongside his brother, Coach Charlie Woodard, from 1977 until Charlie’s retirement in 1998, a partnership built on trust, family, and a shared love for the game.

After retiring from Silsbee ISD in 2016, Coach Woodard continued serving student-athletes at Buna ISD for seven more years. There, he coached defensive line, served as defensive coordinator, and led boys’ and girls’ track and golf programs. His boys’ 4x100 relay team qualified for the state meet, and his golf teams continued the tradition of competitive excellence. Coach Woodard officially concluded his coaching career in May 2024, marking 45 years of service to Texas high school athletics.

Beyond the field, Coach Woodard has been married to his wife, Gretchen, for 29 years. Together, they raised four sons, Curt, Clint, Jason, and Andrew, and are the proud grandparents of five granddaughters: Ellison, Brynli, Callyn, Oaklee, and Arabella.

Throughout his career, Coach Woodard mentored countless athletes, many of whom went on to compete at the collegiate and professional levels. Just as meaningful are the lifelong friendships he built with fellow coaches, relationships forged through shared purpose, long hours, and a deep respect for the profession.

Coach Bobby Woodard’s induction into the SETCA Hall of Honor stands as a fitting tribute to a career defined by excellence, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to shaping young lives through athletics