Just one game into the 2026 season, Mart (TX) head football coach and athletic director Chris Lancaster has resigned, according to a report from DCTF's Matt Stepp.
Lancaster's resignation was confirmed in a letter sent out to the community.
The second-winningest program in Texas' illustrious high school football history, Lancaster joined the Panthers in 2025, leading the program to a 7-6 record. This year, they opened the season with a 40-0 home loss to Whitney.
In the letter, it was announced that assistant coach Kyle Stone will serve as both the interim athletic director and football coach going forward. Stone's first game as interim head coach will be Friday night as the Panthers travel to Axtell.
“Mart ISD would like to share that, effective
today, Coach Lancaster has resigned from his position as Athletic Director/Head Football Coach of Mart ISD," the letter to the public reads. "We are grateful for Coach Lancaster’s time, leadership, and dedication to Mart ISD and our athletic programs. We wish him the very best as he begins his next journey. We know our coaching staff, student-athletes, student body, teachers, administrators, families, and community join us in wishing Coach Lancaster continued success in all future endeavors."
In 11 seasons as a head coach, Lancaster was 53-68, coaching at Bruceville-Eddy, Little River-Academy and Robinson before arriving at Mart last season. He replaced long-time Mart coach Kevin Hoffman, who led the program to three state championships during his tenure.
With 851 all-time wins, Mart only trails Highland Park for most program wins in state history. The Panthers have won eight state championships in 15 championship appearances with their last title coming in 2019.
Follow Sports Reporter Joe Spears on X at @joe_spears7 or via email: JSpears@usatodayco.com. For additional high school sports coverage, be sure to follow @usatodayhss on Instagram and X.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Coach of second-winningest high school football program in Texas abruptly resigns
