LuHi Names Alum Tiquan Garner as New Varsity Football Head Coach
As we prepare for an exciting new era of LuHi Football, we want to begin by expressing our gratitude to Coach Chris Reno who served on staff for 27 years—18 of those as Head Coach. His commitment to building the foundation of our program has not gone unnoticed, and we are grateful for the positive impact he has made on our athletes and community. He leaves the program with an overall record of 91–70 and a legacy of steady leadership and growth. We thank you, Coach Reno, for all you’ve poured into LuHi Football.
We are proud to announce the hiring of Tiquan Garner (’13) as the next Head Coach of the Varsity Football team.
For Coach Garner, this isn’t just a coaching job—it’s a homecoming.
“It means everything to me to be named the Head Coach of LuHi football,” he shared. “As an alum and assistant coach, it has been my only goal to see the program grow to new heights. Right after my playing days were over, LuHi was my first stop because I knew this is where I wanted to be. The bonds and relationships I’ve made here are unlike anywhere else.”
Coach Garner is no stranger to the LuHi community. A four-year Varsity starter, two-year captain, and the program’s all-time single-season rushing leader, Garner helped establish LuHi Football as a respected name across Long Island. His success continued at Wagner College, where he earned a full scholarship, became a two-year starter at defensive back, and captained the team his senior year.
After college, he returned to LuHi—this time on the sidelines. Over the past six seasons, Garner has played a pivotal role on the coaching staff, first as a defensive backs coach and later as Offensive Coordinator. His fingerprints are already on the program’s success: in 2023, LuHi led New York State in team interceptions and finished ranked No. 8 overall. Last season, his offense averaged 32 points per game, with high hopes to build on that momentum in 2025.
But his vision goes far beyond the scoreboard.
“My coaching philosophy has always been centered around developing the whole athlete—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Winning is important, but I define success by the growth of each athlete, both on and off the field,” Garner said. “I lead by example, modeling discipline, humility, and a strong work ethic. My ultimate goal is to prepare athletes not just for the next game, but for the game of life.”
Garner’s immediate focus is to create a clear team identity rooted in effort, discipline, and accountability—both on the field and in the classroom. In the long run, he hopes to help elevate New York football on a national scale by building a respected, sustainable program with strong youth pipelines, top-tier resources, and a culture of leadership.
He credits his experiences as a student-athlete for shaping the leader he is today.
“My favorite memory is from my senior year, playing against an undefeated Roslyn team. I had already rushed for over 240 yards and 4 TDs, but in a crucial moment, I suggested a halfback pass during a timeout—and it worked. That moment, the trust from my coach, and the joy of sealing that win… it’s what LuHi is all about.”
With his deep roots in the program, clear vision for the future, and commitment to developing student-athletes as both players and people, Tiquan Garner is ready to lead LuHi Football into its next chapter.
“I am incredibly honored and grateful for this opportunity. Thank you to the administration, the athletic department, and everyone involved in the hiring process. I’m excited to lead this program and build something special—on the field, in the classroom, and in the community.”
Welcome home, Coach Garner. Let’s get to work!