Tyler, TX — Mickey Akin has been named the head varsity softball coach for the Grace Community School Lady Cougars, athletic director Eddie Francis announced Monday, September 21, 2026. Akin is returning to the school where he previously led the softball program and served as a football coach.
During his prior tenure as head varsity softball coach from 2014 to 2021, Akin guided the Lady Cougars to the postseason in six of his seven seasons, highlighted by a run to the TAPPS Final Four in 2019. He also served for 15 years as the offensive line coach and running game coordinator for the Grace football program, during which the team qualified for the playoffs in all but one season. From 2009 to 2019, he held the position of pastor of student ministry for Grace Community Church.
Akin takes over the program from Chris Arriola, who led Grace Community to the playoffs in each of his five years as head coach.
Immediately prior to his return to Grace, Akin taught high school bible and served as associate head football and associate head softball coach at Southwest Christian School in Fort Worth. In this role, he helped lead the Lady Eagles softball team to district championships and multiple deep playoff runs in TAPPS Division II.
Akin's educational background includes a bachelor of music from East Texas Baptist University and a master of arts in religious education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is also an ordained minister, having served as associate pastor at Trinity Baptist Church in Tyler, minister of worship and students at Murphy Road Baptist Church in Plano, and Bel Air Baptist Church in Marshall.
Expressing gratitude for the opportunity, Akin noted that “Not everyone gets to experience the privilege and joy of coming home.” He highlighted his family’s deep connection to Grace Community School, as both of his daughters are K-12 alumni. Akin stated that the softball program will prioritize relationships, community, discipleship, and hard work, aiming to provide opportunities for players to grow in faith while learning to compete in every challenge.
Athletic director Eddie Francis conveyed excitement about Akin’s return, citing his passion for the Lord, his players, and the sport of softball. Francis indicated that Akin is expected to lead the program to “new heights” and fulfill the school’s mission to use its athletic platform to influence the world for Christ. Akin will also serve as a bible teacher and football coach at the school. Akin lives in Tyler with his wife, Anita.
