Methodist Midlothian and MISD Athletics Honor Standout Coaches

Methodist Midlothian Medical Center joined Midlothian ISD Athletics in honoring a group of exceptional coaches during the district’s annual Athletics Department Professional Development Day. The MISD Athletics Coaches of the Year Awards were launched during the in-service day. The award program is a new tradition recognizing excellence, leadership, and the powerful impact of coaches across the district.

This recognition honors achievements from the 2024-25 athletic season.  While the new school year is just around the corner, the timing of this awards ceremony is intentional, as many programs remain active and competitive well into the summer months. 

The awards were introduced as a way to spotlight individuals who not only achieve on the field, but who serve as role models, mentors, and difference-makers in the lives of student-athletes. The celebration will now become a permanent part of MISD’s annual athletics kickoff.

“We’re proud to support the Midlothian ISD Athletic Department and the incredible coaches who give their all to our students,” said Kasey Cheshier, MHA, Director of Community Relations at Methodist Midlothian. “These awards recognize not just wins, but the character and consistency it takes to shape young lives through athletics.”

The 2024-25 MISD Athletics Coaches of the Year and special award recipient honorees are:

• Middle School Coach of the Year: Mark Rector, Dieterich Middle School

All four of Rector’s football teams (7A, 7B, 8A, and 8B) earned district championships, a rare achievement across multiple grade levels.
 

• Assistant Coach of the Year: Arlene Holt, Midlothian Heritage High School

Holt played a key role in leading the girls’ basketball team to the regional semifinals while also serving as a dedicated assistant track coach.
 

• Head Coach of the Year: Austin Guest, Midlothian High School

Following a historic 2024 UIL 5A State Championship, Guest led the Panthers boy’s soccer team to another standout season, advancing to the state semifinals and finishing among the top four in Texas.

• MISD Athletics Servant Leader Award: Jason Crawford, Midlothian Heritage High School

Named MISD Secondary District Teacher of the Year, Crawford is celebrated for his heart-led leadership, champion role in the “Capturing Kids’ Hearts” program, and his deep investment in student and staff relationships.
 

• Clif White Legacy Award: Corey Anderson, Midlothian High School

Presented by Meagan White, this award honors the lasting legacy of beloved coach Clif White. It is given to a coach who uplifts others, leads with heart, and—true to Coach White’s spirit—never forgets to bring the juice. Corey Anderson is the Strength and Conditioning coordinator and is a driving force on his campus in keeping his athletes motivated throughout the school year. 

Todd York, Athletic Director at Midlothian ISD, also praised the district’s coaching culture. “Our coaches go beyond the X’s and O’s—they are leaders, encouragers, and difference-makers for our student-athletes,” said York. “This awards program is a great way to honor the heart behind the hustle, and I’m proud to see it become part of our annual tradition.”

Midlothian ISD returns to school on August 13, but several athletic programs are already back at work preparing for their upcoming seasons. Coaches in tennis, basketball, cross-country, volleyball, and football are already leading workouts, practices, and planning sessions as the in-season play approaches. 

For more information on MISD Athletics, visit the department's webpage at www.midlothianisd.org/departments/athletics.