Woo Doo Photo / Rodney Wooters
In a town where Friday nights matter, Monday night suddenly does too.
On Feb. 2, the Carroll ISD School Board is scheduled to meet in executive session to discuss the possible hiring of the program’s next head football coach — a decision that would shape the future of one of Texas’ most storied high school football programs. According to the posted agenda, the board may also take action following public comments, opening the door to a hire being made the same evening.
That possibility alone makes Monday a significant date for Dragon fans.
The discussion comes on the heels of Riley Dodge’s recent departure, ending a successful era and launching a high-profile search for his successor. While the district has not publicly named candidates, one name has emerged repeatedly in conversations around campus and across social media: Lee Munn.
Munn has served as Carroll’s defensive coordinator and assistant coach for the past eight seasons, playing a central role in the program’s sustained success. Before coming to Carroll, he spent time as an assistant coach under Riley’s father, Todd Dodge, at Marble Falls and Austin Westlake.
Notably, Munn stepped in as interim head coach in January 2021 for the Dragon’s Class 6A Division 1 state semifinal game against Duncanville when Riley Dodge was forced to miss the game due to testing positive for COVID-19; Carroll won the game, 34-27, and advanced to the state championship game.
Munn’s familiarity with the culture, expectations and pressure that come with leading Dragon football has made him a popular choice for the job among supporters — though, as of now, no official decision has been announced.
Fueling the buzz are public endorsements from high-profile football names. Former Southlake Carroll quarterback and current NFL standout Quinn Ewers has voiced support for Munn on social media, as has Dallas Cowboys legend Dez Bryant, whose son transferred to Carroll this year. Their comments have only amplified the sense that momentum may be building, even as the district remains quiet.
Still, Monday’s meeting is about process as much as outcome. The board could choose to move forward with a hire — or continue deliberations. Either way, the Feb. 2 session represents a turning point.
