SUMMERVILLE, S.C. (AP) — The nation’s winningest high school football coach has decided to retire.

Summerville High School coach John McKissick announced Tuesday he is stepping down immediately. The 88-year-old won 621 games and 10 state titles during 63 seasons at the high school just outside of Charleston.

The National Federation of State High School Associations says McKissick’s victories are the most ever.

McKissick says he decided in the last few weeks it was time to quit. He endorsed his grandson who is currently Summerville’s offensive coordinator to be the new coach, but says he will leave that decision up to others.

Praise for McKissick came from around the state. South Carolina’s Steve Spurrier says McKissick is a smart, well-respected coach and he will miss talking with him during recruiting trips.