Texas Southern University is tackling a new chapter with the appointment of Cris Dishman, a former Houston Oilers standout, as head coach of its football program. According to FOX 26 Houston, Dishman, who is no stranger to the gridiron with a 13-season NFL career and 19 years of coaching experience, is now the 18th coach to lead the Texas Southern Tigers.
"First & foremost, I’d like to thank God for the opportunity. It’s a dream come true. And my dream came true in becoming the Head Coach at Texas Southern", Dishman commented in an interview with FOX 26 Houston. His coaching pedigree includes a stint as the Defensive Coordinator of the XFL's Las Vegas Vipers, and prior to that, he sharpened the defenses of the New Jersey Generals in the USFL, boasting formidable stats in rushing and scoring defense.
TSU's Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Dr. Kevin Granger sung Dishman's praises, stating, "Cris Dishman is an experienced football coach whose accomplishments as a player and coach, make him an excellent choice to lead our football program into the future". Granger's remarks, obtained by TSU's official sports website, stressed Dishman's character and mentorship as critical to shaping the lives of his players beyond the field.
Brandon L. Simmons, TSU Board of Regents Chairman, echoed Granger's sentiments, adding that Dishman's skill set extends well beyond football into the realm of business and leadership. "We are excited to see his leadership lead to wins and his mentorship contribute to student success", Simmons declared in statements made public by the university's sports news division. With a broad coaching history that spans from NFL Europe's Berlin Thunder to secondary coaching in NCAA Division III, Dishman's expertise in defense is expected to transform TSU's game.
As the university gears up for the upcoming season, Dishman vows to rally the Tigers around a steadfast vision. "I want everyone in Tigerland to know that we're going to put together a good team, a good staff, and everyone has to do their job and be all in for TSU football," he told TSU's sports news site. In his personal life, Dishman and his wife Jennifer, are bustling with a family of four adult children, balancing field strategies with family dynamics.
