After a 13‑year tenure that reshaped Millwood High School’s football program, veteran coach Darwin Franklin has announced his move to Edmond Santa Fe, taking the reins of the Bulldogs’ varsity squad.
A Legacy at Millwood
During his time in Millwood, Franklin compiled a 127‑32 record, capturing two state championships and finishing as runner‑up on four occasions, three of which came between 2022 and 2024. His teams consistently ranked among the state’s elite, a testament to his sustained excellence.
The 2023 campaign marked a rare downturn, as the team slipped to 4‑5 and missed the playoffs, ending a streak of deep playoff runs that had defined the program under Franklin.
A Fresh Start in Edmond
Franklin replaces Kyle White, who stepped down after a decade at the helm to assume the role of athletic director at Santa Fe. White’s own legacy includes a 61‑60 record and a Class 6A‑I state championship game appearance in 2020, setting a high bar for his successor.
The Bulldogs have struggled in recent years, posting a 1‑9 record in each of the past two seasons, a statistic that adds urgency to Franklin’s mission of rapid revitalization.
Sources close to the program say Franklin’s family and longtime colleagues urged him to accept the new challenge, citing the opportunity to restore the team’s former prominence.
As the Bulldogs prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Franklin as he attempts to translate his proven success at Millwood into a turnaround at Edmond Santa Fe.