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THE RISE: Director Damion Hopkins & new HC Clarence McKinney aligned on future of Channelview
The Channelview Falcons are building momentum, and the future of the athletic department has never looked brighter.
Under the leadership of athletic director Damion Hopkins, Channelview is making a statement that it intends to compete across every sport. The biggest move came this offseason when the Falcons landed one of the most respected football minds in Texas, hiring Clarence McKinney as the program's next head coach.
The timing made the hire even more impressive.
Longtime head coach Averion Hurts announced his retirement late in the hiring cycle, leaving Hopkins with little time to find the right successor. Rather than settling, Channelview landed a coach whose résumé speaks for itself.
McKinney returns to the high school ranks after serving as the head coach at Texas Southern University and spending time as an assistant at Texas A&M, Houston and Arizona. Before his college career, he built powerhouse teams at Jack Yates High School, making him one of the most respected coaches in Texas football.
For Hopkins, bringing McKinney to Channelview wasn't just about hiring a football coach—it was about finding a leader capable of changing the trajectory of the entire program.
McKinney brings decades of experience, a reputation for developing talent and a proven ability to build winning cultures. His return to the sidelines has energized the Falcon community, creating excitement for what lies ahead.
Together, Hopkins and McKinney share a vision centered on accountability, discipline and giving student-athletes every opportunity to succeed both on and off the field. Their partnership represents a new chapter for Channelview athletics, one built on high expectations and a belief that the Falcons can compete with anyone.
VYPE's Matt Malatesta and Alex Hinson sat down with both Hopkins and McKinney to discuss the vision for Channelview athletics, the excitement surrounding the football program and why they believe the Falcons are only beginning their ascent.
Channelview's Davion Vanderbilt
KIN FOLK: With Speed, Talent, and a Famous Football Lineage, Davion Vanderbilt Is Ready for His Moment
When you think of Channelview High School, you can’t help but think of one of the most recognizable names in sports — Jalen Hurts. Hurts’ exploits were legendary on the football field and the track, coached by his father, Averion Hurts.
The genes are strong at Channelview as wide receiver Davion Vanderbilt has emerged as the Big Falcon on campus. The first cousin of Hurts even bears a striking resemblance to the Super Bowl champion.
“He’s obviously my favorite player,” Vanderbilt said. “But Jalen just proves to me that you can attain your dreams through hard work.”
That message has resonated with Vanderbilt as he’s matured.

“I used to play around and be immature, but I’ve grown to see all my family as examples, along with their successes.”
Vanderbilt has already picked up a few offers on the football field as a wide receiver and continues to build his brand on the track as well.
“For me, it’s about staying healthy,” the junior said. “My hamstring held me back a little bit last year, but I feel great now.
“Track helps me so much with my speed and endurance in football, while football gives me the toughness and strength to push through the 200-meter dash. I’m just working on finishing strong through the line and not letting up at the end.”
With the bloodline, the speed and the mindset, Vanderbilt is carving out his own path at Channelview. And if history is any indication, the Falcons may have another name ready to rise on the big stage.

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