Gregory‑Portland Independent School District announced on June 23 that former Moody baseball coach Joe Curiel would take over as the district’s new head baseball coach.
Curiel arrives with more than 20 years of coaching experience and a career that includes over 250 victories, five state semifinal appearances and three championship game runs with the Moody Trojans.
He replaces Ronnie Jonse, who led the Wildcats’ program since 2020, and takes the reins of a team that finished the 2023 season with a 20‑13‑1 record and a 10‑6 mark in District 29‑5A before being eliminated by Rio Grande City in the bi‑district round.
Curiel’s two‑time Caller‑Times All‑South Texas Coach of the Year honor adds a layer of local prestige to the hiring, reflecting the district’s desire to rebuild after a playoff disappointment.
A New Era for Wildcats Baseball
The district hopes Curiel’s proven track record will translate into a stronger competitive edge for the Wildcats, who are eager to return to deeper playoff runs and restore the program’s recent standing in South Texas baseball.
Community leaders and parents alike have expressed optimism that Curiel’s emphasis on discipline and fundamentals will revitalize the squad and bring renewed excitement to home games at Wildcat Field.