Harris to Lead North Crowley Football Into Next Chapter of Excellence

CROWLEY, Texas (Jan. 8, 2026) — Crowley ISD has named DeMarcus Harris, the Panthers’ current assistant head coach and defensive coordinator, as the next head football coach at North Crowley High School. The promotion underscores the district’s commitment to sustaining a championship caliber program and reinforcing the momentum of one of the nation’s most competitive high school football teams. 

A key figure in North Crowley’s recent dominance, Harris helped guide the Panthers to the 2024 Class 6A Division I state championship and a 28-2 record across his two seasons on staff. Backed by nearly two decades of coaching experience, he brings a proven ability to build culture, develop athletes and elevate team performance. 

Harris also serves as the program’s College, Career and Military Readiness director, where he has helped build systems that prepare student-athletes for life after graduation. Throughout his career, Harris has supported dozens of athletes who continued their playing careers at the collegiate level, including multiple Division I signees. 

“Coach Harris elevates Crowley ISD’s championship culture and ensures our student-athletes are future ready both on and off the field,” said Dr. Michael D. McFarland, Crowley ISD superintendent. “Harris has reached the state playoffs in six of the last seven years and coached in two state championship games, including North Crowley’s 2024 title. And he has helped 128 student-athletes continue their careers at the collegiate level."

Before joining North Crowley, Harris served as athletic coordinator and head football coach at Mesquite High School, and as defensive coordinator and assistant head coach at Cedar Hill, where he helped lead multiple deep playoff runs, including a 2020 state championship appearance. Harris has also coordinated top ranked defenses at Richardson, Arlington Seguin and Little Elm high schools. 

“North Crowley is special,” said Harris. “My family and I felt the district’s culture from day one — a place where people and relationships matter and excellence is a daily standard. What inspires me most is the commitment to growing both academics and athletics. The dynasty continues.”

Crowley ISD emphasized that Harris’s championship caliber coaching experience, leadership skills and student-centered approach made him the ideal choice for this important role. 

“North Crowley football has earned a reputation as one of the strongest programs in Texas, and we are committed to sustaining that championship standard,” McFarland said. “Coach Harris embodies the values and vision needed to propel the program into its next chapter of excellence and usher in the next chapter for a program now recognized among the best in the nation.” 

Harris replaces former head coach Ray Gates, who recently accepted a position on the football staff at the University of North Texas. Crowley ISD congratulates Gates on his move to the collegiate level and looks forward to building upon the foundation he helped establish. 

Harris will begin his new role immediately and will meet with players, staff and families as preparations begin for the 2026 season.