District News

WACO, TX ( February 13, 2025)-- Waco Independent School District is proud to welcome back Esrom Martinez as the new athletic coordinator and head football coach of the Waco High School Lions. A seasoned athletic coach with 15 years of experience, Martinez is well-known in Central Texas football circles for his leadership and commitment to student-athlete development both on and off the field. 

Waco ISD Superintendent Dr. Tiffany Spicer expressed her enthusiasm for Martinez's return to the district where his coaching career first began.

"Coach Martinez has a proven track record of building. up our students both academically and athletically, and we could not be more excited to have him back in his home district to coach our Waco High Lions," Spicer said. "As a coach of multiple sports, both boys' and girls' athletics, he was demonstrated remarkable flexibility and an ongoing desire to enhance his skills while sharing his expertise with students. I believe he will set and expect a high standard of integrity and excellence."

Martinez most recently coached football and powerlifting at Midway High School, where he played a pivotal role in leading the Panthers to the District 12-6A championship in 2023. Martinez served as an assistant head coach at Connally High School from 2019 to 2021, helping the program achieve an undefeated season and an area championship in 2019. 

"Returning to Waco High School feels like coming home. Waco ISD is where my coaching journey began, and I'm honored to lead this program as head coach now," Martinez said. "Waco High has a rich tradition of hard work, perseverance, and community pride, and I'm excited to build on that legacy. I look forward to working with our student-athletes, staff, and the entire Waco community to create a program that fosters excellence both on and off the field."

His coaching career began at University High School, where he dedicated nine years to mentoring athletes across multiple sports, including football, baseball, powerlifting, and track, while also coordinating strength and conditioning programs. Beyond athletics, Martinez leveraged his bachelor's degree incriminate justice from Midwestern State University to serve as a probation officer, later earning a promotion to captain at McLennan County Juvenile Probation, where he worked for seven years. 

"We are thrilled to welcome Coach Martinez back to Waco ISD as the new head football coach at Waco High School," WISD Athletic Director Coach Edward Love said. "His deep ties to our district, passion for developing student-athletes, and commitment to excellence make him the perfect fit for this role."

As he steps into his new position with Waco High School, Principal Joseph Alexander said Martinez brings wealth of experience, leadership, and a passion for student development. 

"Coach Martinez's return marks an exciting new chapter for the Waco High Lions. He understands the culture of our community and brings a wealth of experience that will inspire our players both on and off the field." Alexander said we look forward to seeing his leadership elevate the Lions football program and the positive impact he will continue to have on its student-athletes."