BY JON R. LaFOLLETTE | STAFF WRITER
PHARR — Mike Uribe was named the new head football coach for the PSJA Memorial Wolverines on Monday night at the PSJA High lecture hall. The PSJA ISD school board voted unanimously to award the position to Uribe, who will also serve as PSJA Memorial athletic coordinator.
“PSJA is a strong, professional organization and school district,” Uribe said. “I’m excited to work in such a large and respected school district. PSJA Memorial, relatively speaking, is a new school. It’s had a lot of successes, and I want to build on those successes that they’ve been able to build over a short period of time.”
Uribe spent the 2014-15 season as defensive coordinator for the McAllen Rowe Warriors. Prior to that, he served as head coach for the Mercedes Tigers for five seasons. During Uribe’s tenure with the team, the Tigers went 32-24 overall and 26-11 in district play.
“It was a tough decision because we really liked the three finalists that were nominated,” PSJA ISD board member Ronnie Cantu said. “We were torn, but some resumes were stronger, and that’s what we went on.”
Cantu said Uribe’s playoff experience was a factor during the hiring process. The postseason has eluded the Wolverines during the past three seasons under former coach Gus Cavozos when the team went 7-15 combined in district competition.
“Mike comes from a program that’s had some success,” PSJA ISD athletic director Orlando Garcia said. “And (Mercedes’) non-district record was pretty tough under his tenure. That’s how coaches get ready for district and the playoffs.”
Cavozos stepped down from coaching duties in January to become director for the Safe Schools Initiative for PSJA ISD, a program meant to redirect kids into positive programs throughout the school system.
Uribe did not attend the meeting. Instead, he went to dinner with friends to ease his mind and pass the time.
“The waiting was very, very difficult,” Uribe said. “I was on pins and needles waiting for the decision. And as the time for the board meeting got closer, I got more excited and anxious.”
Cavozos and Garcia were among the first to congratulate Uribe.
“I’m going to enjoy the moment tonight,” Uribe said. “And then I’m going to roll up my sleeves, and I’m going to work my tail off for (PSJA Memorial), and for these kids to have the most productive and successful season they possibly can.”