COACHES & STAFF

JOHN CARROLL

President and 11U/12U Head Coach

I was born in Dallas, Texas and attended Lewisville High School where I graduated in 1995. As a player, I have a State Championship from my Junior year. I am married to Cassy Carroll and I have two kids ages 19 and 24. I started coaching youth football in 2010 on the flag level. I then started the NTX Cowboys Organization in early 2011. In the past 10 years years we have accumulated 6 Super Bowl winning age groups with 2 more second-place finishes. We have captured 27 first-place tournament titles as well as 4 National Titles including the Snoop National Title, Texas Select National Title, and FCS National Title. My motto is "Football is 90% mental and 10% physical.”

IAN KELLY

7U Head Coach

My name is Ian Kelly. I was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. In 2021, my family and I moved to Denton, Texas. I have been married to my lovely wife, Meagan for 7 years, and we have a beautiful blended family of 8 children.

One of my greatest passions is coaching youth football, a pursuit I view as a gateway for young minds to embrace discipline and structure. With 13 years of coaching experience across various levels, I find immense satisfaction in instilling values of integrity within the sport I've cherished since childhood.

As for a favorite quote, I often reflect on the timeless wisdom: "When you're early, you're on time; when you're on time, you're late; when you're late... well, just don't be late!"

ALBERT VELIZ

Recruiting Director and 8U Head Coach

Albert serves as our Recruiting Director, playing a pivotal role in driving the sustained growth and success of our organization. Entrusted with the crucial task of identifying, engaging, and retaining top talent. His responsibilities span outreach, recruitment strategy development, talent identification, and onboarding support.

I was born and raised in Miami, Florida. I am a proud veteran of the US Marine Corps, where I served for four years. I am also a dedicated father to a 12-year-old son and a 2-year-old daughter. 

My passion for football ignited in my youth, carrying me from peewee leagues through the halls of high school, where the game became an integral part of my identity. Graduating from the University of North Texas with a degree in Recreational Events, and Sports Management, I now aspire to leverage this knowledge to shape the future of athletics, whether through coaching at the collegiate level or assuming the mantle of an Athletic Director.

In my heart, I hold a steadfast belief in the transformative power of youth football. It serves as a crucible where young minds forge bonds of teamwork, learn the value of discipline, and discover their own potential as leaders. As coaches, we stand not only as mentors but as paternal figures and older siblings, instilling in our players the virtues of accountability, resilience, and humility in both victory and defeat. For me, coaching is not just about the love of the game, but about the profound impact it allows me to impart on the lives of those under my guidance, extending far beyond the confines of the field.

LAWRENCE BREAUD

9U/10U Head Coach

I was born and raised in New Orleans, LA. I have been married for two years to my wife Jaz. We have two kids, a boy and a girl. I played football up to the collegiate level at Arizona State University and broke many high school records for the state of Louisiana. I began coaching youth sports 4 years ago when I started with John at the 13U level.

I enjoy coaching and helping the youth find that WHY and purpose. I view this opportunity as more than just a coaching job but showing kids how to be responsible for their own actions, how to respect each other and become great young men.

KAMDEN KNEISEL

Fundraising Coordinator

Kamden serves as the NTX Cowboys Board member as the Fundraising Coordinator; a position she has held since August, 2023. In this position, Kamden collaborates with stakeholders to maximize the overall player experience. Kamden believes that fundraising for youth football can bring a multitude of benefits, not only for the football team but also for the players, coaches, and the community at large. Youth football programs require funds for equipment, uniforms, field maintenance, and other operational costs. Fundraising provides essential financial support to cover these expenses, ensuring that the team can function effectively without placing a harsh burden on individual players or their families. Kamden fosters the idea that fundraising initiatives provide valuable opportunities for players to develop essential life skills such as communication, leadership, organization, and teamwork. Whether it involves selling merchandise, organizing events, or reaching out to potential sponsors, fundraising activities offer practical learning experiences that can benefit players in various aspects of their lives.

Kamden is a devoted parent to one son who proudly plays football for the NTX Cowboys organization. As a passionate football fan and supportive parent, Kamden finds immense joy and pride in watching her son excel on the gridiron. As a spectator, she appreciates that the NTX staff works hard to instill the values of hard work, determination, and sportsmanship.

Off of the field, Kamden is a dedicated educator with 15 years of experience working in both middle and high school settings. Born and raised with a deep love for learning, Kamden pursued a career in education to make a positive impact on young minds and foster a lifelong passion for knowledge.

If you are interested in donating to the NTX Cowboys Organization and/or coordinating a fundraising event, please contact Kamden Kneisel at 214-302-9289.

ROSHONDA

Public Relations Director

As our Public Relations Director, Roshonda spearheads all communication endeavors aimed at cultivating and preserving a favorable perception of our organization. She adeptly nurtures relationships with key community stakeholders, orchestrates impactful announcements, and secures speaking engagements to amplify our presence. Roshonda diligently fortifies our organizational reputation, deftly navigates crisis communication scenarios when necessary, and meticulously ensures that every message resonates with our core values and strategic objectives.

A born and raised Mississippi Delta girl, a career established Arkansas resident of 12 years; where I received both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work, and now I'm rooted in Texas building my career and family.

I’m married to one of my High School classmates. Sweet, I know, but ironically he’s not my High School sweetheart; but he stole my heart some years later, and we’ve been going strong for nearly 13 years! Known as Coach Chris, he serves as one of the NTX Cowboys Defensive Coaches, and our son is growing and maturing as a NTX Cowboy. So it has definitely become a family affair, where we take the NTX Cowboys values, Faith, Family, Education, and Football to heart; and in that order. 

“Ecclesiastes 4:10 says, If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.”  God did not intend for us to do life alone, and that’s why our athletes are taught to be supportive brothers for one another. Life is a team effort, and in the North Texas Cowboys family, we strive to be that supportive community. 

MEAGAN KELLY

Social Media Coordiantor/Org Photographer

As our Social Media Director, Meagan is the creative force behind our Organization’s online presence. She skillfully develops and executes social media strategies, curating captivating content, fostering engagement, and boosting our brand's visibility across platforms.

Born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, I moved to Texas with my family in 2021. My husband Ian and I have been happily married for 7 years, and together we have created a beautiful blended family with eight amazing children.

Beyond the joys of motherhood, I'm pursuing my passion for psychology as a college student, with dreams of becoming a child psychologist. Recently, I've discovered a love for photography, particularly in the exhilarating realm of sports photography. There's something magical about capturing those raw, fleeting moments on the field.

With over 12 years of involvement in youth football, I've gained experience at every level and have been fortunate enough to witness firsthand the transformative power of the sport. Beyond the game itself, I'm a firm believer in its capacity to cultivate essential life skills and provide profound experiences for young athletes.

If you spot me around, don't hesitate to say hello! You'll often find me behind the lens, capturing the unforgettable moments of your athlete's journey.

CASSY CARROLL

Treasurer

In her role as treasurer, Cassy adeptly oversees all financial affairs, including meticulous record-keeping, strategic budgeting, and comprehensive financial reporting. She ensures strict adherence to regulations, diligently manages fundraising initiatives, and proactively mitigates financial risks. With a strong emphasis on communication and transparency, she regularly provides stakeholders with clear financial updates, cultivating a culture of accountability within the organization.

Hey there, I'm Cassy Carroll, and I'm thrilled to be a part of our youth football program alongside my amazing husband, John. Our journey began back in 2012, and little did I know then that football would become such a big part of our lives.

John's passion for the game is infectious, and it's been incredible to see him coach and mentor young players over the years. I've always admired his dedication to the youth—he truly believes in the power of sports to shape character and build confidence.

We're a blended family of seven, with five wonderful kids ranging from 22 to 28 years old. And let's not forget our little superstar, Zayd, who's just four years old but already showing a love for football that would make any coach proud. He's our little NTX Cowboy in the making!

Being a part of this program isn't just about supporting John—it's about being involved in something that is positive. I believe in creating a positive environment where kids can learn and grow, not just as athletes, but as individuals.

I bring with me not just my support for John, but also my own perspective and experiences. Together, we're here to inspire and empower the next generation of athletes, teaching them not just about the game, but about teamwork, resilience, and the importance of family values both on and off the field.