Class of 2007

Joe Foyle Lancaster High Football Coach

With a highly successful high school coaching career spanning more than 50 years, Joe Foyle could certainly claim the moniker 'Mr. Football' in Western New York. Arriving in Lancaster in 1951, Coach Foyle, an Ithaca native and graduate of Ithaca College, launched a heralded football coaching career. As junior varsity coach for seven years, he compiled a record of 43-2-2 with his 1955 team unscored upon for the season. His high school record of 117-81-7 included 3 championships, 2 co-championships, 11All-Western New York and several All-State players, en route to becoming the winningest coach in Lancaster's 85 year history.

Revered by his players and admired by his peers, Joe Foyle invested heart and soul in his work. After retiring from Lancaster in 1985, he spent time with Orchard Park and Lake Shore before returning to Lancaster in 1997. A founding father of the Western New York Football Coaches Association, charter member of the Section VI Football committee, and Western New York Coach of the year numerous times, it must be noted that the Western New York High School Football News named the Large School 'Coach of the Year' award the "Joe Foyle Award" in honor of the integrity of his character and excellence of his achievements.

One other tribute - Lancaster's football field carries his name and will inspire players for years to come.