Michael McLeod Named AD, Head Coach of Alma Mater Mason

MASON, TX -- Just as expected, the defending Class 2A Division I state champion Mason Punchers are sticking with the local product after announcing their hire to fill their vacant coaching spot.

Defensive coordinator Michael McLeod was named the 26th head coach in the long history of the Punchers, which dates back to 1915. It was a unanimous vote to promote McLeod to the vacant spot.

Superintendent John Schumacher noted McLeod was a favorite when the job opened up, but a net was cast of potential coaches to take over the post.

"Anytime you make a big decision like this, you have to use your brain," Schumacher laughed. "I presented it to the committee because it felt like a good fit for what Kade Burns had built here."

McLeod takes over after Burns stepped away from coaching to take a principal job on Feb. 26. Burns left the post with a 100-9 record overall at Mason, just one win shy of his father's mark.

Burns served as a mentor to McLeod in his young coaching days, Schumacher said.

"Michael is willing to grow and that process can continue with Kade as principal," Schumacher added..

McLeod has been coaching at his alma mater since 2011 and the defensive coordinator since since 2013. He graduated in 2005 after helping the Punchers get to playoffs in three out of four seasons.

Under his direction last year, the Puncher defense boasted a mind-boggling average of 6.8 points allowed during an undefeated state championship season.

"[Michael's promotion] is huge. It lets kids know there's continuity and the same expectations," Schumacher added. "We have a culture here and the kids know that."

"Michael has great attention to detail and growth and development. We've seen that in the defense over the last three years," Schumacher noted.

The Angelo State University grad also played for the Rams from 2005 to 2010.