Convenience Big Store: Heights coach intent on transforming the inner-city football narrative

July 24, 2023

Heights coach Stephen Dixon intent on proving inner-city football teams can compete with suburbs

At Heights High School, Stephen Dixon rarely experiences what some would call a normal day for a football coach.

He might also be a chauffeur. Or a food provider.

As his 84-76 career record with the Bulldogs attests, an inner-city football program can have success. But the challenges are real.

"When you talk about inner-city kids, you talk about kids that deal with a lot of adversity," Dixon said during the 91st annual Texas High School Coaches Association convention. "I'm not just talking about at school. I'm talking about at home. They don't go home to a great environment. You always want kids to have that structure, and sometimes they only get that when they come to school and be with their coaches."

Read about how Dixon is trying to change the narrative surrounding inner-city football programs in Houston and across the state and what his message was to the coaches who are trying to follow his blueprint for success.

Follow all our coverage at houstonchronicle.com/highschoolsports.

Jon Poorman, High School Sports Editor

jpoorman@houstonchronicle.com

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Shout out

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