High school football: TUSD athletic director says ex-NFL star Rison will not be Rincon/University's coach

“Mr. Andre Rison did not meet the required district hiring protocol for coaches in TUSD,” House said in a statement. “As a result Rincon/University High School will continue its search for a head football coach.”

House would not say why the hire fizzled, though Rison’s past legal issues likely presented a hurdle.

Less than two years ago, Rison pleaded guilty in a federal court for failing to pay more than $300,000 in child support. He was placed on probation for five years.

Rincon athletic director Hank Matz said there hadn’t been a formal announcement to the team as of Wednesday afternoon so he didn’t know the exact sentiment among the players.

Rison, a native of Flint, Mich., spent 12 seasons in the NFL and won a Super Bowl with the Green Bay Packers in 1996. He finished his career with 10,205 yards and 84 touchdowns and also played for Atlanta, Cleveland, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Kansas City and Oakland.

“My guess is that there would be some disappointment,” Matz said. “In the meeting the team had with him, I think they were pretty fired up.”

Rison accepted an offer to become the team’s new coach earlier this month. He first met with the Rangers on March 3, accompanied by Rincon assistant principal Steve Cota-Robles.

Rison still had to clear several steps in the district’s hiring process before the move could be made official. All coaches must pass a background check, be fingerprinted and receive necessary certifications before starting.

Rincon, which went 0-10 last year, will re-open the search for its third coach in as many seasons with spring football just weeks away.