As the summer heat settles over West Texas, the Crosbyton Chiefs and the Ralls Jackrabbits are gearing up for a promising football season. Both programs have announced new head coaches, bringing fresh perspectives and ambitions to their respective squads.
A Fresh Face in Crosbyton
Chris Pritchard, who spent 13 years shaping the football culture at Lockney High School, has taken the reins at Crosbyton. In a recent interview he expressed genuine excitement about the move, citing the community’s passion and the opportunity to implement an aggressive, hard‑nosed approach. He will succeed Ceasar Costilla, who has transitioned to an assistant role at Coronado High School.
Pritchard’s reputation for fiery intensity precedes him, and he has already begun outlining a scheme that emphasizes physical play and rapid turnovers. His experience at Lockney, where he built a consistent winning record, gives the Chiefs a solid foundation on which to build.
Torres Brings Hometown Pride to Ralls
Kevin Torres returns to the town where he grew up after a 14‑year stint coaching in Sundown. Torres, now the head coach of the Ralls Jackrabbits, spoke of the personal significance of guiding his hometown team, and of the fresh energy he hopes to inject into the program. He will replace Xavier Rangel, who has accepted a similar position at Fort Stockton High School.
Torres has said he plans to tailor his strategies to the strengths of his current roster, focusing on disciplined execution while preserving the community’s deep‑rooted football traditions.
A Rivalry Renewed on October 16
The two coaches will soon meet on the field for the traditional rivalry game scheduled for October 16, a matchup that promises to be a litmus test for both teams’ early‑season progress. Fans from both towns are expected to turn out in force, eager to see how the new leadership translates into on‑field results.
Local officials and school boards alike have voiced confidence in the new coaches, noting that their combined experience and community ties bode well for the upcoming season. As the first scrimmages approach, the narrative in West Texas football is shifting toward optimism and anticipation.