New Mexico High School Football: Coach of the Year Voting

As the 2025 New Mexico high school football season closes, it’s time to honor the leaders who shaped championship runs, historic streaks, and unforgettable performances across the state. Here are the finalists:

Bob Gilbreath – Texico (9-3 Overall, 2A State Champions)
Gilbreath once again proved Texico’s tradition of toughness. The Wolverines battled through a challenging schedule and peaked when it mattered most, storming through the postseason to claim the 2A state title. A disciplined, physical brand of football continues to define the Gilbreath era. Vote Now

Brad Holland – Fort Sumner (11-0 Overall, 8-Man State Champions)
Holland guided Fort Sumner to a flawless 11-0 season and an 8-man state championship, combining explosive offense with one of the most suffocating defenses in the classification. Vote Now

Dino Facio Jr. – Gadsden (8-5 Overall, 5A Semifinals)
One of the best stories anywhere in the state. Facio transformed Gadsden into a 5A semifinalist and delivered an 8-5 season that reignited pride in the Panthers’ program. Gadsden’s rise was one of the biggest surprises of 2025, and much of it came from the culture and confidence Facio established. Vote Now

Joey Fernandez – St. Michael’s (13-0 Overall, 3A State Champions, 33-Game Win Streak)
Fernandez continues to run the state’s most consistent dynasty. St. Michael’s finished a perfect 13-0, extended their 33-game win streak, and claimed a 3A three-peat, cementing the Horsemen as one of New Mexico’s true powerhouses. Sustained excellence like this is almost unmatched.Vote Now

Mike Kovacs – Bloomfield (12-1 Overall, Back-to-Back 4A State Champions)
Kovacs and Bloomfield did it again. A 12-1 finish capped by a second straight 4A championship solidified the Bobcats as the team to beat and positioned Kovacs among the elite coaches in New Mexico. Back-to-back crowns speak volumes about his leadership and program stability. Vote Now

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