Durango High School has hired a new football coach.
Matt Burton accepted the position and will be moving to Durango with his family from Lindale, Texas, located east of Dallas, to lead the Demons.
Durango’s District Athletic/Activities Director, Ryan Knorr said he believes coach Burton will keep the positive momentum rolling in Durango’s football program and is excited about leveling up the program to compete in Class 4A.
“Coach Burton brings so much experience in so many facets of football, a contagious passion for students and football, as well as a focus on building a program that centers on developing student athletes into great family and community members,” Knorr said. “We are excited to start this next chapter and the future is bright for Durango football.”
Burton brings experience from all sides of the football to Durango. Most recently, Burton served as both a football and baseball coach at Lindale High School, helping the Eagles reach the 2020 4A D1 Texas high school football state championship game. He served in similar roles in Texas at Gilmer, Mount Vernon, Daingerfield and Orange Grove high schools as well.
He has served as an offensive coordinator, defensive position coach, as well as special teams and strength and conditioning coordinator positions.
Burton has also been a full-time teacher while coaching, teaching physical education and history. As a high school student, Burton played football, baseball and ran track at Odessa Permian and Mount Vernon high schools. Burton then played both football and baseball for Austin College in Sherman, Texas.
Burton’s wife is also an educator, teaching in the science and math fields. They first met in the Colorado mountains and have two young daughters.
“Coach Burton really elevated himself during the interview process, bringing a tremendous amount of knowledge, energy and excitement as to why he wanted to be the next head coach to lead the Demons,” said DHS principal Jon Hoerl. “We are excited for him to get started!”
