Mesquite Horn has a new leader at the helm. Mesquite ISD officially announced Vernon Hughes as the school’s new head football coach and athletic coordinator, bringing in a rising talent from the Central Texas ranks. Hughes, who spent the past two seasons guiding Pflugerville Weiss, brings a track record of quick success and a reputation for building strong team culture.
At Weiss, Hughes went 17-5 across two seasons, leading the Wolves to back-to-back playoff appearances. The 2024 team finished 8-3, continuing a run of competitive play in the Austin area. While postseason wins eluded them, Hughes’ ability to build consistency and elevate talent stood out—enough to earn him the nod at one of DFW’s toughest districts.
Horn is no stranger to challenges. The Jaguars are coming off a 2-8 season while battling in District 11-6A, home to powerhouse programs like Duncanville, DeSoto, and Cedar Hill. The transition from former head coach Courtney Allen, who finished 15-16 over three seasons, marks a new chapter. Allen’s best season came in 2022 when Horn went 8-3 and reached the playoffs.
The move is a major shift for both schools. As Hughes takes the reins in Mesquite, Pflugerville Weiss has already filled the vacancy with Prosper offensive coordinator Malcolm Hill. Hill, who helped Prosper’s offense thrive in 2023, now steps into a program with momentum and high expectations.
Both schools appear positioned for growth. Hughes brings a steady hand to Horn with experience gained at stops including La Grange, Hutto, Del Valle, and Weiss. Meanwhile, Hill’s background in Frisco and time coaching at Rice and Sam Houston State has shaped him into a well-rounded leader with a strong offensive mindset.
Weiss will look to maintain its winning ways under Hill, while Horn fans are hopeful that Hughes can revive the Jaguars and push them back into playoff contention. For both coaches, it’s a chance to leave a legacy and build something lasting in the heart of Texas high school football.
