BELTON- A month-long search for UMHB’s next offensive coordinator is complete, as Andy Padron was named to the position on Friday afternoon. He takes over for Stephen Lee, who left to become the new OC at Abilene Christian in January.
Padron, a UMHB alum, comes to Belton from DeSoto High School, where he was largely successful, helping the Eagles to two state quarterfinal appearances in his three years as the program’s offensive coordinator. His resume also features experience at the D-I level, as he served as Bowling Green’s Co-Offensive Coordinator for two seasons, helping develop quarterback Jarret Doege, who eventually started for West Virginia in 2021. He coached under his father, Danny Padron, at Texas Lutheran following his collegiate career, joining the staff in 2010. He took over as the program’s offensive coordinator in 2011. Padron played a key role in TLU’s three SCAC championships from 2013-2015, and his offense ranked third in the country in yards per game (521.2) in 2013.
With an ability to mesh a quality rushing attack with consistent passing plays, Padron has enjoyed enormous success at each of his three previous coaching stops. Finding a way to integrate both methods of offense will be critical in Belton, especially in 2022, as UMHB returns the majority of its offensive starters. Padron will also serve as the quarterbacks coach.
“I’m so excited to return to UMHB and contribute in the pursuit of another National Championship,” Padron said in a press release. “Most teams are content in chasing a conference championship but that’s not the case here… our tradition and mindset is to win a National Championship.”
Head coach Larry Harmon described Padron “as a perfect fit” for the program. A 2007 UMHB graduate, Padron understands the tradition of excellence and the level of expectation in Belton. He spent four years as a quarterback for the Cru, playing on the 2004 team that reached the Stagg Bowl.
“I’m very excited to get Andy back home,” Harmon said in a press release. “He’s the perfect fit for our program.”
Padron joins a group of first-year top assistants on the UMHB staff, as Jack Johnson was promoted to defensive coordinator, Mark Carey is the new Special Teams Coordinator, and Harmon has taken over for longtime head coach Pete Fredenburg, who retired in January.
