Change is coming to Memorial High School football, but it's a familiar face leading the charge. The Mavericks have officially promoted defensive coordinator Ross Dillard to the role of head football coach and campus coordinator, ensuring continuity for a young program on the rise.

Dillard, who has spent the last 11 seasons as a defensive coordinator—including the last two at Memorial—brings a deep understanding of the team's culture and personnel. In a statement, he emphasized his commitment to building on the existing foundation, saying, "I am deeply invested in the continued success of our student-athletes... I understand our athletes, our community, and the expectations that come with representing this school."

His promotion comes at a pivotal time for the Mavericks, a program that will enter just its third full varsity season in 2026. Despite its youth, Memorial has already made waves, compiling a 16-7 record over its first two years. The team's identity has been defined by a high-octane offense, which has averaged a staggering 42 points per game.

Dillard's immediate task will be to bolster the defensive side of the ball, a unit he previously led that allowed 29.7 points per game. If he can translate his defensive expertise into more consistent stops, Memorial's high-scoring attack could make them a formidable opponent in the Texas high school football landscape, where they finished the 2025 season ranked 468th with a 7-3 record.

This internal hire signals a vote of confidence in the program's current trajectory. For a community passionate about its football, keeping a respected leader like Dillard at the helm provides stability and a clear path forward as the Mavericks look to establish themselves as a lasting force in one of the nation's most competitive prep football states.