Orlando, Fla. – Richard Pettus, the only head coach in the history of The Villages High School football program, was enshrined as one of the state's best on Jan. 10 in Orlando.
Pettus was inducted into the 2026 Class of the Florida Athletic Coaches Association (FACA) Hall of Fame, joining six other inductees to comprise a seven-member class, during a luncheon ceremony inside the Drury Plaza Hotel. He just recently completed his 34th year coaching overall and his 24th season as head coach of the Buffalo, leading VHS back to the state playoffs with a 9-2 record overall.
A native of Mount Pleasant, Tennessee, Pettus graduated from the University of Memphis, where he played football for the Tigers, before earning a Master's degree in Physical Education from the University of West Alabama. While at UWA, he also served as a graduate assistant on the football staff.
In 1993, Pettus moved to Florida and began what has become an extraordinary career mentoring student-athletes. Over the years, he has served as a head coach in football, baseball, basketball, weightlifting, and track and field, with career stops at Lake Weir High School, North Marion High School, and since 2002, The Villages High School. At VHS, he has left a lasting impact on both athletes and the community.
Under his leadership, the VHS football program has achieved consistent success, including district championships in 2005, 2011, and 2018; regional final appearances in 2011, 2018, and 2021; and three undefeated regular seasons (2018, 2020, 2021). Entering the 2025 season, he held a record of 129-87 at The Villages. Among the many highlights of his tenure are a 17–6 victory over longtime rival Trinity Catholic in 2019 and the opportunity to coach his son, Gunnar, a 2018 graduate of The Villages High School.
Beyond Friday nights, Pettus has contributed to the advancement of football across the state. He has served as Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Florida Athletic Coaches Association Football Committee, on the FHSAA Football Advisory Committee, and as a representative to the FHSAA Charter School Assembly. His dedication has earned him multiple honors, including the FACA Meritorious Service Award and several FACA District 8 Coach of the Year recognitions throughout his career. In 2017, he was also selected to lead the North team as head coach in the FACA All-Star Football Classic.
As athletic director at The Villages High School, Pettus has directed the school's hosting of the FACA All-Star Football Classic 11 times —including each of the past 10 years— and the FHSAA Rural Football State Championships since 2024.
Respected for his passion, integrity, and leadership, Pettus is celebrated not only for building winning teams and establishing a first-class football program, but also for shaping the lives of countless athletes. His program has produced more than two dozen collegiate players, including standouts such as Mac Harris III (University of South Florida) and Jonathan Harding (University of Memphis). His influence also extends through the many former players who have returned to coach under him, including five members of the VHS coaching staff during the 2025 season.
Away from the field, Pettus enjoys water skiing, camping, and spending time with his wife, Judy, and their son, Gunnar.
Cody Hills can be reached for questions or comment via email at cody.hills@tvcs.org.
