Dallas ISD named former Lancaster head coach Leon Paul as the next head coach at Wilmer-Hutchins High School on Thursday.

Paul steps in for Elzie Barnett who had led the Eagles since DISD re-opened the campus back in 2011, posting a 77-80 record in 15 seasons.

Paul had spent the past five seasons at nearby Lancaster High where he posted a 36-24 overall record. He led the Tigers to four playoff appearances, one district title, four bi-district titles and a regional final appearance in 2023. Prior to his time in Lancaster, Paul spent time as an assistant coach with stops at Duncanville, Crowley and Kennedale.

“I am excited," Paul said. "I’ve always wanted to be part of building something special and building a unique brand. I think it can done at Hutch. I’ve had some doors that were shut in my face recently and I’m grateful for this door that’s open. I think this door stayed open for me for a reason and I’m so grateful and happy to be part of Dallas ISD.”

Paul takes over a Wilmer-Hutchins program that’s been consistently in the playoff discussion as a 4A-Division I program, but playoff success has been tougher to come by in recent years. The Eagles bottomed out in 2025 with a 2-8 mark.

Paul said if success is to be had his supportive administration will be a big part of that. 

“I see why Coach Todd (South Oak Cliff head coach) brags about his administration, because you need to have that support to win big," Paul said. "During the process I could see the support from my principal Mr. Bobby Nevels and Mr. Vince Reyes (Dallas ISD Assistant Superintendent of Athletics) and I am appreciative of the support and ready to make them and Wilmer-Hutchins proud.

Paul plans on starting at Wilmer-Hutchins as soon as he is able to get all the formalities taken care of.

As for what his message to his new team will be when he meets them for the first time, Paul said, “We need to have a mindset to be on 16 (games) at all times, and when we get on 16 and that mindset to be great, I think great things can happen.”