News Summary

Franklin High School in El Paso is on the hunt for a new head coach for its football team following the reassignment of Daren Walker. The position not only involves leading the Cougars but also includes the role of campus athletic coordinator, emphasizing the importance of this position in the educational environment. The community is eager to see who will take on this pivotal role and continue building upon the legacy Walker created during his 23-year coaching career.

Franklin High School Football Looks for New Head Coach

The city of El Paso is buzzing with excitement as Franklin High School prepares for a significant change on its football team. Yes, you heard it right! For the upcoming 2025 season, the Cougars will welcome a new head coach. This change comes after the recent reassignment of Daren Walker, a coaching veteran whose journey in the world of high school football has certainly left its mark.

What You Need to Know

The job posting for the new head coach is up on the El Paso Independent School District (EPISD) website, and interested candidates can now apply. This head coach role isn’t just about directing the football team; the new appointee will also take on the responsibilities of the campus athletic coordinator. That’s a big deal! The EPISD has publicly expressed its commitment to seeking out only the most qualified individuals for such a crucial position in fostering a quality educational experience for the students.

On February 26, 2025, the EPISD confirmed that Walker had been reassigned from his coaching duties, marking the end of an era for Franklin High’s football program. Walker, known for his impressive coaching skills, has been a cornerstone in high school football in El Paso for many years. Over the course of his 23-year coaching career at both Chapin and Franklin High Schools, he has amassed an impressive combined record of 160 wins against 90 losses.

The Legacy of Daren Walker

From 2002 to 2006, Walker made his mark at Chapin High School before moving to Franklin in 2007, where he continued to build a legacy. Under his leadership, Franklin’s teams achieved notable feats, including two back-to-back winning seasons with ten wins each in 2011 and 2012. His teams didn’t stop there; they also had successful seasons in 2014 and 2018 with nine wins each. Clearly, Walker knows how to command a football field!

In recent years, Franklin High School competed in District 1-6A and had a solid showing in the 2024 season with a record of 6-5. They even made it to the playoffs, showcasing their skills, although they faced a tough loss in the bidistrict round. As Walker steps aside, the school community looks forward to the next chapter with new leadership and fresh ideas.

Coaches of Note

Interestingly, Walker’s coaching tree has produced several notable figures in high school coaching. Many of his former assistants, such as Mark Torres, Ruben Torres, Leigh McWhorter, Patrick Brown, and Frank Martinez, have stepped into head coaching roles themselves. It’s a testament to the mentorship and talent fostered during his tenure.

The Future is Bright

As Franklin High School seeks to fill this pivotal role, the community is buzzing with possibilities. The school is determined to find a head coach who can carry on the successful legacy built by Walker while also bringing their unique style to the program. The excitement about the upcoming season and the new direction the football team will take is palpable among students, parents, and alumni alike.

While Walker could not be reached for comment, there is no denying the impact he has had on the football culture in El Paso. The Cougars are now on a quest to find their new head coach, and with it, the promise of growth and exciting football ahead!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

LIVE BALL Resources

Florida Coaches Coalition Advocates for Pay Raises
Trey Scotti Named New Boys Basketball Coach at McNicholas High School
Fall River Honors Young Athletic Talents and Hall of Fame Inductees
Chino Valley Community Reacts to Coach Ricky Herrera’s Departure
Coaching Change at Mesquite Horn Football
Mankato East Leads Minnesota Softball Rankings Amid Weather Setbacks
Zac Nero Named Head Coach of North High School Football
New Head Coach for Niceville High School Football
Andy West Steps Down as Ridge High School Football Coach
Las Vegas Advocates Push for Lacrosse Recognition with Senate Bill 305

Additional Resources