NMHSCA induct Coach Joe Bailey
Coach Joe Bailey has been a dedicated advocate for student-athletes in New Mexico for over 40 years. Beginning his career with Moriarty Municipal Schools in 1984, his passion for coaching and teaching has made a lasting impact on the community. At Moriarty High School, Coach Bailey served as an Assistant Coach for both football and boys’ basketball before transitioning to Head Girls’ Basketball Coach and Head Track & Field Coach, as well as Athletic Director
His record speaks volumes for his dedication and expertise. As an assistant football coach, Coach Bailey contributed to 7 District Championships and 2 semi-final appearances. In basketball, he was part of a state championship team in 1997, a second-place finish in 2003, and three district championships. As Head Girls’ Basketball Coach, he led his team to 3 District Championships (2007, 2009, 2016), a state runner-up finish in 2018, 2 additional semi-final appearances, and became the winningest coach in the program’s history with 203 wins. In track and field, he achieved 8 District Championships, 5 third place finishes at the State Track Meet, 2 state runners-up (1998, 2007), 2 state championships (1999, 2001), coached 39 individual state champions, and founded the community’s Twilight Track Meets in 2011.
Coach Bailey has received numerous accolades throughout his career. These include District Track Coach of the Year (2013), District Girls Basketball Coach of the Year (2007, 2009, 2016), New Mexico Track and Cross Country Coach of the Year (1999, 2000), Southwest Girls Track and Field Region Coach of the Year (2000), New Mexico Athletic Director of the Year (2019), induction into the New Mexico Cross Country & Track and Field Coaches Association Hall of Fame (2013), and the Moriarty High School Athletic Hall of Fame (2023).
Beyond coaching in Moriarty, Coach Bailey has contributed significantly to New Mexico high school sports. He served on the NMAA Middle School Committee, the NMAA Executive Committee, and was Secretary-Treasurer for the NMTCCCA from 1999 to 2009. He has also been a member of the NMAA Track and Field Sports Specific Committee. In addition, Coach Bailey has been a 35+ year member of the NMHSCA all the while advocating for the organization.
Coach Bailey’s influence extends far beyond his impressive coaching record. He is renowned for his unwavering belief in his athletes and his positive coaching style. His philosophy emphasizes encouragement and optimism, always seeing the glass half full. A notable example of his inclusive approach is his integration of a special education student who participated in the Special Olympics into the track team, demonstrating his commitment to teamwork and inclusivity. This student’s involvement became a season highlight, celebrated by all.
It is with great pleasure that the NMHSCA inducts Coach Joe Bailey into the New Mexico High School Coaches Association Hall of Honor. His career and dedication to student-athletes exemplify the highest standards of education-based coaching, characterized by integrity, pride, passion, and character. Coach Bailey’s legacy is defined not just by his coaching achievements but by the life lessons imparted to generations of students. His commitment to his students and community makes him a true Hall of Fame coach. His lifelong commitment to excellence in coaching and education has made a lasting impact, embodying the spirit of this prestigious recognition.