HCSD Middle School Coach Named Best in State

(October 14, 2026) – This morning, Harrison County School District leaders surprised North Gulfport Elementary & Middle School’s Head Football and Basketball Coach with the incredible news that he has been named the 2025–2026 Mississippi Middle School Coach of the Year! The surprise announcement may have caught Coach Timothy Nelson completely off guard, but one thing is certain: his excellence has never been a surprise to everyone who knows him.

This prestigious recognition from the National Federation of High Schools and MHSAA celebrates Coach Nelson’s dedication to his student-athletes, his commitment to developing young people, and the positive impact he makes both on and off the field. As Mississippi’s state honoree, Coach Nelson will advance for consideration for the NFHS Section 3 Award, bringing the opportunity for his outstanding contributions to be recognized across eight southeastern states.

Coach Nelson, we are so proud of you! Your leadership, dedication, and investment in our students make a huge difference every day. We are excited to celebrate not only this incredible honor but also the 16 years of hard work, heart, and passion that you have poured into our school and community.

Please join us in congratulating Coach Nelson on this well-deserved recognition and wishing him the very best as he advances to the next level.