Former Vista Star Stefan McClure Named El Camino Football Coach

McClure, a four-star recruit and NFL player, returns to San Diego County to lead the Wildcats program.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Stefan McClure, a former standout at Vista High School and Cal who played in the NFL, has been named the new head football coach at El Camino High School. McClure, who spent nearly two decades away from home, is excited to return to San Diego County and lead the Wildcats program.

Why it matters

McClure's hiring brings a talented and experienced coach with local roots back to the El Camino program, which is looking to rebound after a 1-10 season. His collegiate and professional playing experience, combined with his connections to the community, make him an intriguing choice to turn around the Wildcats.

The details

After a successful high school career at Vista, where he was a four-star recruit, McClure went on to be a three-time captain at Cal. He then signed with the Colts as an undrafted free agent and played in the NFL for several teams, including Washington and the Raiders. Most recently, McClure has been coaching at the collegiate level and working for a youth sports organization. El Camino is hoping his blend of playing experience and coaching expertise will help revitalize their football program.

  • McClure was named the new El Camino head football coach on Monday, February 9, 2026.
  • He replaces Michael Hobbs, who stepped down after an 1-10 season in 2025.

The players

Stefan McClure

A former four-star recruit out of Vista High School who went on to play defensive back at Cal and in the NFL for several teams. He has coaching experience at the collegiate level and with a youth sports organization.

Michael Hobbs

The previous head football coach at El Camino High School, who stepped down after an 1-10 season in 2025.

Ben Daley

The athletic director at El Camino High School, who praised McClure's experience and local roots as a good fit for the program and community.

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What they’re saying

“I left home at 18 and have been going east, or all over, ever since. I got into coaching after playing, but wanted to get closer to family. I saw the El Camino job was open and reached out to them. I still have the itch to coach, think I relate well to kids, and the job would bring me home. So I decided there was no time like the present to take a shot.”

— Stefan McClure (San Diego Union-Tribune)

“His experience at the collegiate and professional levels, combined with his local roots, makes him an excellent fit for our program and community.”

— Ben Daley, El Camino Athletic Director (San Diego Union-Tribune)

What’s next

McClure said he has not yet met his new players and is still determining the offensive and defensive schemes the Wildcats will run. The spring and summer will be important as he evaluates the roster and implements his vision for the program.

The takeaway

McClure's homecoming to San Diego County provides El Camino High School with an experienced and talented coach who can leverage his playing background and local connections to help turn around the Wildcats' football program after a difficult 2025 season.