Larry Tidwell brings one of the most accomplished resumes in collegiate athletics to Arlington Baptist University. He completed his 50th year of coaching and teaching in May 2026. His extensive experience in coaching, teaching, fundraising, athletic administration, and leadership at the high school, NAIA, and NCAA Division I levels provides him with the knowledge and expertise to help lead the ABU Patriot athletic programs. 

A seven-time Hall of Fame honoree and nationally respected leader in intercollegiate athletics, Tidwell has built a legacy defined by competitive excellence, student-athlete development, and a commitment to Christian values. Through his “Service Above Self” dedication to community service, more than 30,000 hours have been credited to his collegiate teams. 

Throughout his distinguished career, Tidwell has served in leadership roles at some of the nation’s most respected institutions, including Baylor University, Texas Christian University, The University of Kansas, Lamar University, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Texas Tech University, University of Louisiana Monroe, Tarleton State University, and Dallas Christian College. During these tenures, he has served as Athletic Director, Head Women’s Basketball Coach, Associate Head Coach, Chief of Staff, and Assistant Coach. This diverse experience has given him a unique understanding of every aspect of athletic administration, program development, and student-athlete development. As a collegiate head coach, Tidwell has maintained a student-athlete graduation rate exceeding 90%. 

With an emphasis on women’s basketball at the collegiate level, Tidwell appeared in seven NCAA-accredited postseason tournaments during his 11-year head coaching tenure, including the NCAA Tournament, WNIT, and WBI. He compiled an overall NCAA Division I record of 213-141, followed by a two-year NCCAA record of 39-21 at Dallas Christian College, including two Final Four appearances at the ACCA Tournament. His collegiate coaching record stands at 252-161, while his high school girls’ basketball coaching record is 386-97, giving him a combined girls basketball head coaching record of 638-258. 

Adding a high school volleyball record of 263-59, a collegiate baseball mark of 37-12, and nine state rankings in girls' high school cross country and track, Tidwell has put together a blessed career record of 938-330.

Beyond wins and championships, Tidwell has dedicated his career to mentoring student athletes and young coaches. He has organized hundreds of basketball camps and clinics, traveled internationally to more than 40 countries promoting the game, and invested thousands of hours in community service and leadership development. His impact extends far beyond the court, as countless former players and coaches have gone on to successful careers in athletics, education, ministry, and business. To date, more than 240 former high school and collegiate players have entered the teaching and coaching professions, with many more expected to follow. 

A native Texan and graduate of Austin College, Tidwell has been inducted into seven Hall of Fames, including: 

• 2025 Texas Girls Coaches Association Hall of Fame
• 2022 Texas Association of Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame
• 2021 Lamar University Hall of Fame
• 2014 Austin College Joe Spencer Career Achievement Award
• 2010 Austin College Kedric Couch Coaching Award
• 2004 Austin College Student-Athlete Honor
• 2003 Sanger High School Hall of Fame 

As Athletic Director at Arlington Baptist University, Tidwell looks forward to working alongside President Dr. Clifton McDaniel and the outstanding professors and coaches who make ABU an exceptional university in both the classroom and athletic competition. 

“My vision aligns closely with ABU’s mission of preparing Worldchangers through Christ-centered education and competition while positioning Patriot Athletics for continued growth and success in the years ahead. I have a sincere passion for helping develop student-athletes who desire to excel academically, athletically, and spiritually.

I have followed an inspirational saying throughout my life that has continually guided me: ‘What you are is God’s gift to you; what you become is your gift to God.’ So true.” 

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