Katy Magazine News
April 15, 2019
Katrina Katsarelis
After opening Cinco Ranch High School's football program 20 years ago, head coach Don Clayton, 62, told his players he would be retiring. 2018 would be his final season.
Photo by Anetrius Wallace for Katy Magazine
This morning, Clayton informed his players that he would not be coaching them at tomorrow's spring season training. Clayton also posted a heartfelt message on his Facebook page to friends and followers.
Clayton's Facebook Statement
"The time has come to move on to the next phase in my life. I am retiring from coaching at the end of this school year after 20 years at Cinco Ranch and 38 years total. I have been blessed to work with many awesome coaches and kids. I have a wonderful wife, two beautiful daughters, two great son in laws, and four awesome GRANDBABIES to spend time with. Looking forward to more time with the family and traveling with Rhonda to all of the neat places in the USA. Started the bucket list with Masters last week and now will get busy on the rest. There is not too many things more rewarding than working with young people and helping them to grow into productive adults. Thanks for the great ride!
Clayton's post received an outpouring of support, well wishes from grateful former students, football parents, and coaches.
"Coach Clayton, congratulations on your retirement and a great career. More importantly, thanks for a being a great role model who certainly helped shape who I am (and countless other athletes) today!!" - Jason Vourazeris
"Thank you for all you did for Kevin and for Kyle. They made lots of great memories. A special thanks for the way you treated Kyle after he got hurt. No words can express how grateful we are for the time and effort you gave for our kids. Enjoy your retirement! You deserve it!!" - Trisha Malloy
Accolades and Accomplishments
Under the direction of Coach Clayton, the Cougars had 13 playoff appearances in 19 seasons with two trips to the semi-finals, and an overall record of 141-78.
During Clayton's 38-year coaching career, he also worked as the Offensive Coordinator at Katy HS (July 1994 – April 1999) prior to taking the Head Coach position at Cinco Ranch. He also worked as the Head Football Coach for Livingston ISD from 1990-1994. Prior to that, Clayton spent time assisting Katy's Mike Johnston in the late '80s and early '90s.
Clayton has served as the Region V director for THSCA and also served as president of the Greater Houston Football Coaches Association. Clayton was on the State 7 on 7 Board of Directors as well as the Touchdown Club of Houston's Player of the Year Committee.
Clayton holds a masters degree in Educational Administration from Steven F. Austin State University and an undergraduate degree in PE/Business from University of Wyoming where he's originally from.