The 2026 Texas high school football season in the Wichita Falls area is shaping up to be one of transition and promise, with several programs entering the year under new guidance while others look to build on recent successes. District 4-3A Division II remains one of the most competitive circuits in the region, featuring traditional powerhouses and emerging contenders eager to secure playoff berths.
Memorial’s Coaching Change
Memorial has appointed Ross Dillard as its new head coach after longtime mentor Marc Bindel departed for Celina. Dillard arrives with a deep familiarity with the program, having served as a defensive coordinator and worked closely with Bindel at Rider. His intimate knowledge of the team’s culture and personnel is expected to smooth the transition and maintain the momentum the program has built over the past few seasons.
Memorial’s recent track record underscores the potential for continued success. The team reached the playoffs in each of its first two varsity seasons, posting a 9-3 record in 2024 and a 7-4 mark in 2025. Those achievements have positioned the program as a consistent threat within the district and set a high bar for the new coaching staff.
Across town, Legacy has shown notable improvement after a winless inaugural season. The program climbed to a 2-8 record in 2025 and earned its first-ever berth in the Texas State 7-on-7 Tournament. Recognized by Dave Campbell’s Texas Football as a potential sleeper in District 2-5A Division II, Legacy is being projected as a playoff candidate, adding depth to the district’s competitive landscape.
Vernon’s football program is experiencing continuity under head coach and athletic director Brock Payne, who stepped into the role after Kevin Sherrill’s departure. Payne has retained key sophomore standout Tyce Payne, who earned honorable‑mention all‑state honors the previous year. The stability at the helm is viewed as a factor that could help the team translate its offseason gains into on‑field victories.
District 4-3A Division II remains a hotbed of talent, featuring teams such as Holliday, City View, Henrietta, Jacksboro, Merkel, and Breckenridge. Collectively, these programs posted 42 wins in the previous season, and Holliday alone has averaged over 44 points per game while securing at least ten victories in six straight seasons from 2019 through 2024. The depth of competition ensures that every matchup will carry significant playoff implications.
Overall, the Wichita Falls‑area football scene is marked by a blend of established programs and rising contenders, each navigating its own narrative of change or continuity. With new coaches, promising talent, and a district slate that promises tight races, the 2026 season is poised to deliver high‑stakes games and compelling storylines for players, coaches, and fans alike.