(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT — Nov. 5, 2025) — Irvin High School head football coach Jonathan “Jon” Elliott has been named the 2025 Game-Changing Coach of the Year by Dave Campbell’s Texas Football and Ballogy. The prestigious statewide honor recognizes transformational leadership in high school athletics.
Elliott was selected from a field of 60 finalists across Texas. He rose to the top for his commitment to developing student-athletes both on and off the field. As part of the award, Irvin High School will receive $5,000 to support its football program.
"It’s an honor to be selected for this award, but it’s really a direct reflection of everyone involved in the change happening within our program," Coach Elliott said. "We have seven other coaches on staff who work hard daily, a supportive school staff and administration, dedicated parents, trainers, feeder schools, and an incredible booster club. Most importantly, none of this would be possible without the players themselves who are improving each day on the field and as young adults in life."
Elliott took over as head coach in 2024 after serving as offensive coordinator at Chapin High School. Since joining Irvin, he has focused on strengthening student-athlete success both in competition and in the classroom, emphasizing character, discipline, and academic achievement.
"As an alumni, parent of a player and volunteer for the Irvin Rocket booster club, Coach Elliott has done nothing but great things for our boys and the Irvin Rocket football program," said Valerie Garcia, a member of the Irvin community. "I want to thank Coach Elliott and the rest of the football coaching staff for all they have done."
For Elliott, the honor is especially meaningful because it comes from Dave Campbell’s Texas Football, a publication widely known as “The Bible of Texas Football,” which highlights more than 1,500 high schools and serves as one of the sport’s most influential voices.
"This recognition isn’t about one person; it’s the result of a collective effort," Coach Elliott said. "We’re grateful to the Irvin and El Paso community for rallying behind us and supporting our vision. Thank you to everyone who’s helped us build this together."
The statewide voting process opened in early September and concluded in October, with communities across Texas rallying behind their coaches. Irvin fans, families, and students joined together in support, ultimately helping secure the victory.
“This recognition speaks to Coach Elliott’s incredible leadership and the culture of teamwork, accountability, and pride that he’s built at Irvin,” said Robert Stives, principal of Irvin High School and Transmountain Early College High School. “He inspires our Rockets to believe in themselves and work every day to reach their full potential.”
El Paso ISD congratulates Coach Elliott and the Irvin Rockets for this outstanding achievement and for representing the district with pride, sportsmanship, and excellence.