Former Alvarado Indian Casey Walraven has been named Alvarado ISD’s next athletic director and head football coach.

“We did an extensive search, looking at coaches from across the state with a multitude of experiences and a lot of success,” said Dr. Kenneth Estes, Alvarado ISD Superintendent. “When it came down to what we were looking for, Casey checked every single one of our boxes. He’s had playoff success, had experience as an athletic director and, most importantly, he’s proven himself to be a culture and relationship builder.”

Walraven compiled a 62-45 record over 10 years as the head coach at Cleburne and Grandview with four playoff appearances. In three of his five years at Grandview, his teams reached the state semi-finals.

Walraven credits his on-field success to what he and his coaches do off the field.

“I’m ecstatic to be coming home and to be the next AD/Head Football Coach for Alvarado ISD,” Walraven said. “I want to make the administration, alumni, and entire community proud of Alvarado Athletics. We will bring in the very best teachers and coaches to build relationships and mold young men and women. I can’t wait to get started!”

A 1996 graduate of Alvarado High School, Walraven led the Indians to a 13-1 record his senior year as quarterback before accepting a scholarship to play at Eastern New Mexico.

“This is an exciting time to be an Alvarado Indian,” Estes said. “I’ve watched Casey grow from being a scholar to the man he is now and I’ve always been a fan.

“There are a lot of former Alvarado Indians who are head coaches or coordinators across the area and we’re thrilled to have one of them coming home to coach the newest generation of Alvarado Indians!”