Tucked away in the Southeast Texas Panhandle sits the community of Wellington. Surrounded by farmland, the townspeople know farming isn’t their only valuable resource. Perhaps one of the greatest resources in the community is the man who walks the sidelines under the Friday night lights, just as his father did for 20 years.
Skyrocket head coach Wade Williams has quietly become one of the best coaches in the entire state and his record since taking over the reins at Wellington proves just that. Since 2008, Williams has amassed a 97-18 record at Wellington, including a state championship, four trips to the semifinals and a winning season every year.
When Williams took over at Wellington, the Rockets were 7-13 in two seasons and had not made it past the first round of the playoffs since 1991 when his father, the late James Williams, led the Rockets to an 11-1 season.
Winning year after year takes more than talent on the field; it’s about your athletes buying into the program and expecting to win every time they step on the field. One thing is for sure, Williams has quietly built an exceptional program while staying out of the coaching limelight.
Since he’s been in Wellington, Williams coached two of his sons, Westin and Walker, both All-State players. Walker was named the 1A DII Defensive MVP when Wellington won the title over Falls City in 2013. This year Williams’ youngest son, Luke, is the quarterback for the Rockets. Wade’s father passed away in June of 2015, but there is no doubt the roots he planted so long ago run deep in the Wellington’s program.
Friday night the Rockets will appear in their fourth semifinals since 2008 against the undefeated Iraan Braves. Should Williams guide his Rockets to a win, he will pick up his 98th win in just nine years and will be knocking on the century mark.
Over the years, there’s no doubt Williams has been courted by various program throughout the state. However, Williams seems to have found his niche in his hometown proving…there’s no place like home.
Brought To You By
