TXHSFB's Unsung Heroes: Coaches Who Deserve More Recognition in 2026
The world of high school football is filled with stories of triumph and transformation, but some coaches remain unsung heroes. TXHSFB's list of underrated coaches for 2026 shines a light on these leaders who have consistently delivered results, often in challenging circumstances. Let's dive into the stories of these remarkable coaches and explore why they deserve more praise.
Class 6A: Mike Rabe, Katy Jordan
Mike Rabe's coaching journey is a testament to resilience and program-building excellence. His career record might not be flashy, but his impact is undeniable. At his first head coaching job in Ganado, Rabe turned a 1-9 team into a 9-3 powerhouse in just three years. He repeated this feat at Waco Connally, going from 0-10 to 7-5 in five seasons. But here's where it gets impressive: since 2015, Rabe has been instrumental in developing two new programs within the Katy ISD. He took Katy Mayde Creek from a 0-10 start to a 9-3 record in his final season, and then founded the Katy Jordan program, leading them to the third round of playoffs in their second varsity season. Rabe's ability to build winning cultures is remarkable, and his teams' success speaks volumes.
Class 5A: Roger Adame, Mercedes
Roger Adame's elevation to head coach at Mercedes in 2014 marked the beginning of a remarkable era. In his first year, he guided the Tigers to their best record since 1999, finishing 9-2. This was just the start of Adame's legacy, as he went on to become the program's all-time winningest coach with an impressive 87-46 record over 12 seasons. Except for a single year, Adame's teams have consistently reached the playoffs, including an exceptional 11-1 record last year, the first double-digit win season in over two decades. Adame's ability to maintain a high level of success is a testament to his coaching prowess.
Class 4A: Brian Hulett, Springtown
Brian Hulett's coaching career is a study in consistency and turnaround success. In 18 years, he has missed the playoffs only once, and even that season at Eastland was a remarkable 6-4 turnaround from consecutive 2-8 seasons. Hulett's impact at Springtown is particularly noteworthy, as he has led them to five double-digit win seasons in 12 years, a feat they had only achieved seven times in the previous 59 years. Under Hulett's guidance, Springtown has become a playoff mainstay.
Class 3A: Clint Conkin, Slaton
Clint Conkin's arrival at Slaton marked a significant turning point for the program. In just three years, he transformed a struggling team into a 10-3 force, achieving the program's first 10-win season since 1980. Conkin's success isn't limited to Slaton; at Clarendon, he led the Broncos to a 12-2 record in his first year, reaching the fourth round of the playoffs for the first time since 1972. His ability to revive programs is remarkable and deserves recognition.
Class 2A: Kevin Stennett, Cisco
Cisco's consistent success might overshadow the brilliance of Kevin Stennett's coaching. Since 2002, the Loboes have had only two losing seasons and reached five state championship games. Stennett has maintained this level of excellence, reaching at least the second round of playoffs every year and the fourth round four times. His transition to head coach was eased by the presence of legendary coach Brent West, but Stennett has proven his ability to navigate changing dynamics and maintain the program's success.
These coaches have achieved remarkable results, often in challenging circumstances. But are they truly underrated? Do they receive the recognition they deserve? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's celebrate the unsung heroes of TXHSFB.
