There will be a new, but familiar, face of one of Texas' most storied football programs in 2019.
Aledo announced Thursday morning that current head football coach Steve Wood will take over as the district's athletic director while Tim Buchanan, who planned to retire from his position as athletic director this month, will instead take over Wood's position, a job he held from 1993-2014.
The move is pending board approval. The next school board meeting is scheduled for Jan. 22.
Buchanan, according to a news release, said he decided to his announce his retirement as athletic director because he missed coaching. He didn't have to look far for the next opportunity.
"The chance to coach again in Aledo ISD is something I couldn't turn down," he said.
Wood, who led Aledo to its eighth state title this season -- tying a record for most 11-man championships in state history -- said he's excited for the new role.
"Aledo has been a very special place for me and my family and I want to do all I can to see that it stays that way for as long as possible," Wood said in the release. "My hope is to give our athletes and coaches in all sports the best possible environment and opportunity for success. I look forward to many great things ahead for all our of programs."
Five of the school's eight state football championships were won under Buchanan's watch. During his 21-year run as head coach, Buchanan, called "the architect of Bearcat football,'" went 227-53-3. He become the district's full-time athletic director in 2014 allowing Wood, the defensive coordinator under Buchanan, to take over as head coach.
Aledo has won seven football state championships over the last 10 seasons. They could add another title next year.
Aledo returns some of the best weapons in the state. Running back Jase McLellan, rated as the No. 3 running back in the 2020 recruiting class, ran for over 2,000 yards and 48 touchdowns last year. Jojo Earle, a receiver who will be a junior next season, emerged as an electric playmaker, warranting scholarship offers from TCU, Texas Tech and Texas.
Quarterback Jake Bishop, just like his two brothers did at Aledo, led the Bearcats to a state title. He'll be looking for his second ring next year.