MAYO, Fla. — A Hall of Fame career has come to an end.

Joey Pearson announced his retirement as Lafayette High’s head football coach on social media Thursday afternoon.

“THANK YOU Hornet Nation!!!!!!!,” Pearson posted on Facebook and Twitter. “It’s been a great ride. After 20 years as Head Coach of the Hornets I have decided it’s time to step down and pass the torch. My family thanks everyone for the loyal support for the last 20 years. I am blessed to have had the opportunity!! Go Hornets!!!”

In those 20 years, Pearson led his alma mater to a 155-68 mark and six district titles. The Hornets made 15 playoff appearances under Pearson’s direction including a state semifinal appearance in 2007 when he was named the Florida Dairy Farmers Class 1A Coach of the Year.

Pearson was inducted into the Florida Athletic Coaches Association Hall of Fame in January, one of six coaches to be honored at the ceremony in Daytona Beach.

Prior to taking over the LHS program in 1999, Pearson had served as an assistant coach for eight years.