Temple native and championship-winning quarterback to lead statewide IFL franchise into its 2027 debut

AUSTIN, Texas (Aug. 16, 2026) – The Texas Draft has named Texas native and indoor football veteran Jonathan Bane its inaugural head coach. Bane will lead the Indoor Football League franchise into its first season in 2027 and help establish the competitive standard for a statewide team anchored in Austin.

“Jonathan is the kind of leader you build a franchise around. His football mind is proven, his grit has been tested and his character is grounded in faith,” said Vivi Lin, founder and CEO of Draft Entertainment and owner of The Texas Draft. “He knows how to win the indoor game and how to develop the men who play it. We share the conviction that leadership is service. As we take The Texas Draft across the state, he will set a standard rooted in accountability, excellence and purpose.”

A Temple native, Bane brings more than a decade of indoor and arena football experience. The former Dakota Wesleyan quarterback finished his playing career with a 72-20 record as a starter, earned PIFL Offensive Player of the Year honors, won the 2019 NAL championship with the Jacksonville Sharks and became the NAL’s all-time leading passer. After a career-ending spinal cord injury in 2024, Bane returned to coaching in 2025 and most recently served as head coach of the IFL’s San Antonio Gunslingers in 2026.

“Texas is home, and I am honored to build The Texas Draft from the ground up,” Bane said. “We will compete with purpose, develop players and serve communities across the state. We will be fast, physical and disciplined, and we will give fans across Texas a team they can be proud to call their own. Let’s get to work.”

Bane will begin assembling his coaching staff, evaluating talent and establishing the team’s football identity for 2027. Additional football operations and player personnel announcements will follow.

About The Texas Draft

The Texas Draft is an IFL franchise launching in 2027. Headquartered in Austin, the team is developing a state-side team that offers professional football experiences to unite the communities of the Lone Star state. Owned and operated by Draft Entertainment, The Texas Draft combines fast-paced, family-friendly football with year-round community, business and fan engagement.

Through Axyus, Draft Entertainment’s fan-engagement and marketplace platform, the Stakeowner model gives supporters self-owned experiences, access and rewards across game day and beyond.