By Rubin E. Grant
Tim Shepler took note of Nick Saban’s facial expression when the famed Alabama football coach announced his retirement in January and figured he probably should follow suit.
Moreover, after Christmas last year, Shepler, the Homewood basketball coach, already had alerted high school administrators that they probably should start thinking about his replacement.
“When Saban retired a week or two later, I thought maybe it was a sign,” Shepler said.
“Looking at Saban, I could see the fatigue on his face and thought that’s not where I wanted to be, fatigued and trying to keep going.”
After praying all spring about whether he should retire, Shepler decided it was time. He announced on May 1 that he was stepping down as the Patriots’ boys head basketball coach after 29 years.
A Bible study about God’s timing gave Shepler the clarity he needed.
“It was a hard decision, something I labored about all spring,” Shepler said. “I started getting information about Medicare, so I’m not as young as I used to be. This is my 40th year in education. It was time to retire.”
Shepler, who will turn 65 in September, came to Homewood after being a head coach for five years in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He has 662 career wins and led the Patriots to the 2016 Class 6A state championship. He also guided Homewood to state runner-up finishes in 2008 and 2010 and led the Patriots to 13 area titles while sending 28 players to the college ranks.
This year, he was voted 2024 OTM Boys Basketball Coach of the Year after leading the Patriots to a 24-9 record and their first regional final appearance since 2016.
“When I arrived at Homewood High 29 years ago, it did not take long to realize this was a special place,” Shepler said. “In this school system, you are surrounded by excellence at every turn. You can’t help but to strive to get better while living and working in this environment. Greatness is all around you.
“Over the years, we have had dedicated and hardworking kids, incredible assistant coaches, a dynamic faculty and great administrative support. It has been a blessing for Lisa (his wife) and I to be here and to raise our family in Homewood.”
Homewood Principal Joel Henneke said Shepler’s influence extends far beyond the basketball court.
“Coach Shepler has made a difference in the lives of many students, motivating them to pursue their goals with determination,” Henneke said. “I appreciate his guidance and the invaluable contributions he’s made to our basketball program.”
Shepler plans to remain at Homewood and teach for at least another year, but beyond that, he said doesn’t know what lies ahead.
Shepler believes assistant coach Elijah Garrison should receive strong consideration to be his successor. Garrison came to Homewood two years ago after serving as head coach at New Hope in Madison County.
“I hope he gets the job,” Shepler said. “He will be a great head coach, whether it’s here or somewhere else.”
