Coach David Cantu, has been recognized as the Texas High School Coaches Association (THSCA) Football Coach of the Year for Region 7 - 6A. Cantu, who is in his fourth year as Athletic Director and Head Football Coach at Los Fresnos High School, lead the Falcons during an exceptional 2024 season, capturing the outright District 32-6A championship, clinching a bi-district title, and finishing with a 10-win season.
Coach Cantu’s strategic leadership and dedication helped guide the Falcons to an impressive offensive performance, averaging 38.3 points per game, while their defense held opponents to just 19.4 points per game. Although the Falcons’ postseason run came to an emotional end in the area round against Buda-Johnson—a nail-biting game they lost 20-23—Coach Cantu’s team earned statewide respect for their performance in one of the most competitive games of the state playoffs.
In recognition of his success, Coach Cantu and his coaching staff were honored by the Rio Grande Valley Coaches Association, who selected them to coach the East Squad for the annual RGV All-Star Game in January 2024. Additionally, Coach Cantu, alongside Offensive Coordinator Neil Schuster, was invited to present at the prestigious Alamo City Coaches Clinic in New Braunfels, Texas, where they shared their coaching insights with peers from around the state.
"Congratulations to Coach Cantu on being named our Athletic Region Coach of the Year," said Los Fresnos CISD Superintendent Dr. Gonzalo Salazar. "It is great to see how he interacts with kids on and off the field. He and his staff draw out the best in student athletes and help them work toward their full potential. We are fortunate to have him (back home) in Los Fresnos.”
The THSCA Coach of the Year nomination process is an esteemed recognition, open to all THSCA members after the state championships each season. Nominations are carefully reviewed by the Awards Committee, and the winners are then considered for the National High School Athletic Coaches Association’s National Coach of the Year award.