A Fresh Start for Laney Football
Coraey Houser, a 32‑year‑old Wilmington native, was introduced this week as the new head football coach at Laney High School, taking the reins of a program that last captured a conference title in 2001. Houser, who grew up watching the Tigers dominate the Cape Fear region, says he sees a clear path to restore the school’s former glory.
Having played at Hoggard High before returning as an assistant under Scott Braswell, Houser climbed the coaching ladder at New Hanover, where he spent the past five seasons and was promoted to defensive coordinator in 2025. His deep ties to the community give him a unique perspective on the city’s football culture and the expectations that come with it.
Building Relationships and Reviving the ‘Killer Bee’ Identity
Houser’s philosophy centers on relationships and stability. He wants to recapture the ‘Killer Bee’ mentality — a brand of toughness and relentless effort that defined Laney’s best teams. ‘We’re going to play with heart, play together, and bring that killer instinct back,’ he said in his introductory press conference.
The coach also outlined a visual refresh, adopting a low‑profile haircut and a bucket hat as a nod to a new era. While the look is subtle, the message is clear: a blend of tradition and forward‑thinking strategy.
Laney’s recent history has been marked by close contests with rival Hoggard and a drought of conference titles. Houser believes that by leveraging his local knowledge and the talent already on the roster, the Tigers can break through and become one of North Carolina’s elite programs.
A Vision for the Future
Beyond X’s and O’s, Houser emphasizes creating an environment where players feel supported both on and off the field. He hopes that consistency and trust will translate into wins, higher rankings, and a renewed sense of pride among alumni and fans.