Cocoa Tigers Launch Search for Head Football Coach as 7-Time State Champion Program Looks to Build on Historic Success
By Zach Clark, Space Coast Daily // January 22, 2026
Coach Schneider led Cocoa to three consecutive state championships (2022, 2023 and 2024)
BREVARD COUNTY • COCOA, FLORIDA – Cocoa High School has launched a coaching search for its next head football coach as one of Florida’s most storied high school programs looks to build on a historic run of success.
The announcement follows the departure of Head Coach Ryan Schneider, who stepped down last week after leading the Cocoa Tigers to three consecutive state championships in 2022, 2023 and 2024. Under his leadership, the Tigers further cemented their legacy as a powerhouse program, adding to a tradition that includes seven state titles and 18 straight regional championships.
In a statement released by the school, Cocoa High School confirmed Schneider’s decision and expressed appreciation for his contributions.
“Cocoa High School announces that Head Football Coach Ryan Schneider has stepped down from his position to pursue new professional opportunities,” the statement read.
“Coach Schneider has expressed his gratitude for his time at Cocoa High and for the opportunity to work with the school’s student athletes, families, and community. As a school community we are grateful for his leadership and dedication which have made a meaningful impact on the Cocoa Tiger football program.”
School officials emphasized that support for student-athletes will continue uninterrupted during the transition. According to the statement, academic support, athletic development, and college recruitment and scholarship guidance for seniors will remain in place as the program moves forward.
Cocoa High said it is seeking a new head coach who embodies the school’s Tiger PRIDE values and can carry forward the program’s vision and long-standing tradition of excellence.
The search will extend nationwide.
Interested candidates are asked to submit a cover letter and coaching résumé to Athletic Director David Kintigh at Kintigh.David@brevardschools.org
The Cocoa Tigers are widely regarded as one of Florida’s premier high school football programs, and school leaders said they are committed to finding a coach who can uphold that legacy while guiding the next generation of student-athletes.
