by Ryan Peterson
It was the worst kept secret in East Texas. On Monday night it became a official. Thomas Sheppard was officially named Diboll athletic director and head football coach. Sheppard replaces Gary Martel, who was promoted to superintendent.
Sheppard has been Tatum defensive coordinator the last three years, winning three state titles. Monday night in Diboll, Sheppard was wearing one of his championship rings.
"I'm as fired up now as when we walked out to the state championship game the last three years," Sheppard says.
Sheppard joked that he can already hear Martel giving him coaching advice. Sheppard worked under Martel while at Anahuac. Sheppard was also head football coach at Lometa High School. This will be his first chance as an athletic director.
"It's a great experience and I think we're going to take these kids to the next level," Sheppard says. "It's hard work, dedication and commitment."
Sheppard was given a three year contract.
