Atchison High School announced on Tuesday morning that head football coach Jim Smith has announced his retirement after 27 years. 

Posted by Atchison High School through X: "After 27 years of dedicated leadership, we announce the retirement of our Head Football Coach, Jim Smith. Throughout his tenure, Coach Smith has been a mentor, leader, and inspiration to countless athletes." 

Not only 27 years leading Atchison but roughly 40 years of coaching experience in his career. 

In his resignation letter to the school, Smith notes that it was one of the hardest decisions he's ever had to make.