San Antonio Toros Undergo Coaching Shakeup: Vinklarek Resigns, Bedwell Elevated to Head Coach and GM
San Antonio, TX – In a surprising development for the newly revived San Antonio Toros, Head Coach Ronnie Vinklarek has resigned, effective immediately. The announcement comes just weeks after Vinklarek was named to the role in December 2025, as the team prepares for its inaugural season in the relaunched Continental Football League (CoFL).
In his resignation letter dated January 8, 2026, Vinklarek cited family considerations and an unexpected opportunity in the United Football League (UFL) as the primary reasons for his departure. “It is with a heavy heart that I must resign from the position of Head Coach of the San Antonio Toros,” Vinklarek wrote. “This decision was not made without deep thought and reflection, and my decision was ultimately made when considering my family. I appreciate your faith in me as the Head Coach of the San Antonio Toros and am extremely grateful to the San Antonio Toros Management Group, but another opportunity arose unexpectedly in the UFL that will benefit my family and align with my career goals.”
Vinklarek
Vinklarek, a Texas native, brings more than 43 years of coaching experience at the professional and collegiate levels. His storied career includes stints as offensive line coach at Rice University (2009-2017), SMU, the University of Houston, and Oklahoma State. Professionally, he coached in the NFL with the Buffalo Bills (2000-2002) and in the CFL with the Edmonton Eskimos (2007-2008). Most recently, he served as an offensive line coach at East Texas A&M. His appointment to the Toros was seen as a major coup for the franchise, drawing on his deep roots in Texas football and his expertise in player development.
The Toros Ownership Group, led by Managing Partner and Team President Joshua Mair, along with members Connor Nahrgang, James Criner, and Robert Smith, expressed gratitude for Vinklarek’s brief but impactful tenure. “We thank Coach Vinklarek for his contributions and wish him the best in his future endeavors with the UFL,” Mair said in a statement.
Introducing Head Coach Stan Bedwell
In the wake of Vinklarek’s resignation, the Toros have moved swiftly to name Stan Bedwell as the new Head Coach and General Manager. Bedwell, who was appointed Offensive Coordinator and GM in December 2025, will now take on expanded responsibilities to lead the team on and off the field.
Bedwell brings extensive experience in the innovative Air Raid offense. With over 25 years in the system as both a player and coach, Bedwell is a European Hall of Fame quarterback and coach. His coaching resume includes roles at numerous universities and professional teams in the U.S. and across Europe. He is also familiar with the CoFL, as he served on the Ohio Valley Ironmen staff in 2024. Bedwell’s expertise in high-powered passing attacks is expected to energize the Toros’ offense as they revive the franchise’s historic legacy dating back to 1967.
“Stan’s promotion reflects our confidence in his vision for the Toros,” Mair added. “His track record of success and deep understanding of modern offensive strategies will help us build a competitive team that honors San Antonio’s rich football history while engaging our passionate fan base.”
The Future
The San Antonio Toros, originally a powerhouse in the original CoFL during the late 1960s—reaching the league championship in 1969—are set to return as part of the league’s summer relaunch. With a focus on community involvement, fan ownership programs, and local talent, the team aims to recapture the scrappy, regionally proud spirit that defined its earlier era.
Fans can expect more updates on roster moves and training camp as the Toros gear up for their debut season. Stay tuned to SA Snap Count for the latest on San Antonio’s professional football scene.