A New Head Coach at Woodson

Ryder Peacock moved to Woodson, Texas from Albany in 1996. He graduated from Woodson I.S.D. in 2002. He is a third generation teacher here in Woodson, following his grandmother, Gloria Hurford, and his mother, Melissa Vickers. Upon his graduation as salutatorian, Ryder had left his mark in many areas! He set the Class-A state record in the high jump at 7 feet and one-quarter inch. He was a big part of teams that made many long runs in the playoffs in both basketball and football. And of course, being well-rounded, he played and excellent “Humpty Dumpty” for UIL One Act Play. 

Ryder graduated from Stephen F. Austin with his bachelor’s degree in 2008, earning his master’s degree in August of 2009. While attending college he taught as an undergraduate assistant track coach. Ryder then put in an application for the head coaching job in his hometown, our hometown, Woodson.

When asked why he was interested in the job he said, “It’s my hometown and you don’t get the chance very often to coach where you played.” He also wanted to be closer to his family and watch his little sister play college sports, just as she watched him.

After their July 2009 wedding, Ryder and his wife, Lauren, moved to Woodson. They are excited to be back in a small town close to relatives. Besides his coaching duties, he also teaches US History, Government Economics, Math Models and assists in Theatre Arts.
Ryder’s goals for the football team this year include going back to state to win, but he mainly just wants them to have fun and play as a great team. While Ryder is teaching, his wife, Lauren, works for the Breckenridge American as a journalist.

We are all very happy to have Ryder and Lauren living here in Woodson.