LEAGUE CITY – Ty Halford of Clear Creek High School has been named the 2024–2025 National Boys Water Polo Coach of the Year by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS).
Halford said the award reflects a group effort.
“I’ve been blessed to have people around me that help me be the best coach I can be,” Halford said. “There are a lot of hours from a lot of people that go into winning a national coach of year award, including an amazing assistant coach, dedicated athletes and supportive parents. It means a lot to me that NFHS, UIL and coaches around the state recognize the work we do.”
The NFHS has recognized high school coaches through a national awards program since 1982. Each year, the organization honors coaches in the top 10 boys sports, top 10 girls sports, and two additional sports. Award winners must be active coaches during the year for which they are recognized. This year’s awards cover the 2024–2025 school year.
Clear Creek Athletic Director Kirby Killingsworth congratulated Halford on the honor.
“Congratulations to Coach Halford on winning this prestigious national award and leading the way in this sport,” Killingsworth said. “He has built a water polo dynasty at Clear Creek High School with district titles, regional titles and now two State Championships back-to-back.”
The NFHS receives nominations from its member state associations, which often work with state coaches associations. Potential award recipients are asked to complete a profile detailing their coaching record, professional affiliations, community involvement, and coaching philosophy.
Halford has served as head coach at Clear Creek High School for eight years. Since the University Interscholastic League sanctioned water polo in 2022, the Wildcats have posted a 109-15-3 record. The team has won the Class 6A state championship in each of the past two seasons, including a 31-4 record in 2025.
Halford was also named the 2024–2025 Boys Water Polo Coach of the Year by the Texas High School Coaches Association and Texas Farm Bureau Insurance.
Photo Courtesy: Clear Creek ISD
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