This spring marks the 50th issue of Dragon Pride. Looking back at those early editions, it’s remarkable how much the landscape of high school sports has changed, both here in Southlake and across the country.
When we launched our exclusive sports publication, social media barely existed. There were no recruiting graphics floodingInstagram, no daily rankings updates from outlets like MaxPreps or 247Sports, and certainly no NIL deals. Back then, Friday night lights ruled everything, and football stood firly at the center of Dragon Nation.
At the same time, sports like lacrosse were just beginning to take hold locally as families relocated here from traditional lacrosse hotbeds. Among them was our cover star, Max Bushaw, who caught his very early love for the game from his father.
Long before national championships or Division I offers entered the picture, Max was the little kid carrying a lacrosse stick almost everywhere he went. I’ve known Max since he wasn’t much taller than his stick, and even then, his passion for the sport was evident. Years of discipline, consistency, and hard work have led him to an incredible next step: committing to play at the University of Notre Dame.
Watching athletes grow up in this community has always been the most rewarding part of publishing Dragon Pride. Max’s journey from Southlake to South Bend is a testament to more than his talent. It also highlights the years of support from his family, coaches, teammates, and a community that continues to invest deeply in its student athletes.
As we celebrate this 50th issue, it feels fittingto recognize how much has changed – and the traditions of excellence that never do.
Yours in Dragon Pride,
Mike Tesoriero | Publisher Mike@SouthlakeStyle.com
Goal Oriented
Photo by Rodney Wooters
Max Bushaw's lacrosse career continues at Notre Dame
Southlake lacrosse standout Max Bushaw takes his game to South Bend 15 CARROLL SPORTS IN REVIEW
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GAME OF THROWS
For Carroll senior Max Bushaw, lacrosse has never been a phase or a pastime. It has been a constant — something woven into his life since first grade, when most kids are still trying out sports to see what sticks.
“I started super young,” the kindergrad from Rockenbaugh Elementary said. “What drew me into the sport was definitely my dad.”
His father, Owen, certainly didn’t grow up in a traditional lacrosse hotbed. He was raised in Oklahoma, where football reigns and lacrosse was virtually invisible. It wasn’t until he arrived at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, that he encountered the sport for the first time. The discovery changed the trajectory of both father and son as a stick soon found its way into Max’s hands. What began as backyard throws evolved into a disciplined pursuit of early mornings, travel tournaments, and hours of wall ball.
Fast forward to 2026, and Max is now a Division I commit to the University of Notre Dame – the back-to-back national lacrosse champions in 2023 and 2024 one of the best programs in the country.
“I never saw myself not being able to play at that level,” he said. “I always believed I could do it.”
After committing to University of Notre Dame before the end of his junior year, Max Bushaw welcomed legendary Fighting Irish head coach Kevin Corrigan to his home — proudly posing with a giant Notre Dame flag and a future that’s already looking gold and blue.
SEEDS PLANTED
Owen was on Marquette’s school sailing team when he noticed some students playing lacrosse. He was instantly drawn to it – a game that looked like a beautiful, violent collision of every sport he’d ever loved.
"Club lacrosse was kind of serious at Marquette," Owen said. “I saw them playing and had no idea what it was, but the game appealed to me. I joined because I was fast – I had no stick skills. But it became a thing.”
That "thing" became an obsession. Suddenly, Owen found himself playing wall ball during study breaks and traveling with the club team to play bigger schools like Notre Dame and Ohio State. Owen played through the rest of his time in Milwaukee and even continued at the University of Arkansas after graduation until an injury sidelined him permanently. But the seed was planted. He saw in lacrosse a perfect athletic harmony.
"It’s every sport in one," Owen said. "Hit, run, you have a ball; if you make a mistake, you can recover immediately. It’s fast-paced. I had an instant liking for it.”
Owen was so eager to get Max started on playing that he bent the rules a bit, admittedly.
"I told people Max was a year older than he actually was when he was a little kid, just so he could start playing early," he laughed.
STICKING WITH IT
By the time Max reached his freshman year at Carroll, the fundamentals he’d practiced since the first grade had evolved into something far more sophisticated. For Owen, the realization that Max was moving into a different stratosphere came that year in the form of a "Twizzler."
In lacrosse parlance, a Twizzler is a high-level, deceptive shot where a player rotates the stick across their body, snapping the ball into the corner of the goal from an impossible angle. It requires a level of wrist strength and "feel" that most high schoolers haven't yet developed.
"He was a freshman when he pulled it off," Owen recalls. "After that, I actually had to start wearing a helmet just to play catch with him in the backyard. His velocity and precision had surpassed the 'casual' stage."
Yet, Owen is quick to point out that Max’s true edge isn't just the shot — it’s his mind. "Max is infinitely better than I ever was,” Owen said. “His off-ball movement and lacrosse IQ are off the charts. He’s fluid, smart, and strong. There’s really no position on the field that, in my mind, he isn’t elite at.”
To truly sharpen his game, Max sought to move beyond the familiar confines of regional play and measure his skills against the best the national circuit had to offer. His trajectory shifted permanently when he joined the Mad Dog National Team, lining up against elite athletes from East Coast hotbeds where the sport is a religion.
"He always excelled around other Texas athletes," Owen said. "When he joined Mad Dog, he was playing against kids where lacrosse is their entire life, and he was good against them. Nothing against the Texas kids, but the East Coast lacrosse players live and breathe the sport. When Max did well against them, that’s when the realization hit, for me, that he could go as far as he wanted."
That belief showed up early at Carroll. As a freshman in 2023, Bushaw earned a spot on the varsity lacrosse team — a rare accomplishment for a first-year player. “When he
Owen Bushaw, [top row, third from the left] with his Marquette club lacrosse teammates, firt discovered the sport in college — an experience that would later help spark his son Max’s journey to the Division I level. Photo courtesy Owen Bushaw
started as a freshman, it really stood out to me and our community that Max could be a special player,” said Carroll head coach Bruce Frady.
‘MAX CAN PLAY ANYWHERE ON THE FIELD’
Max backed up his own expectations with production: 42 goals and 7 assists, immediately becoming a focal point in the Dragons’ offense But beyond the stats, his freshman season delivered one of the most defining lessons of his career.
“That year, we played the Episcopal School of Dallas in the playoffs,” Max said. “We lost by one goal in overtime and they went on to win state that year.”
The loss lingered. Not as a setback, but as a measuring stick.
“That loss taught me lessons I will carry through my entire lacrosse career,” he said.
In 2024, Max’s sophomore season looked different on paper — 28 goals and 12 assists — but reflected something deeper happening within Carroll’s system. Rather than being defined strictly as a scorer, Max was expanding his game and embracing a more versatile role.
“Playing at a Texas public school for lacrosse teaches you how to do everything on the field,” Max said. “I can be the guy with the ball initiating the offense or be an off-ball guy working to find space to score.”
That evolution wasn’t accidental, but by design.
“To be a great offensive player you have to have the skill set to be a great feeder, shooter, dodger, and two-way midfielder,” Frady said. “Max can play anywhere on the field and, in my opinion, be one of the best players on the field because of his overall skill.”
By Max’s junior year, everything clicked.
A more versatile and mature Bushaw posted 47 goals and 16 assists, combining scoring, vision, and control in a way that made him one of the most dangerous players in the country. He had become the type of player who could dictate a game’s rhythm, and some of the country’s top college programs wanted him. He committed to Notre Dame as a four-star recruit before his junior season had ended.
“[That season] taught me not to wait for someone else to make a play, and how to be able to take control of a game,” Max said.
FROM SOUTHLAKE TO SOUTH BEND
At a school known nationally for football, Carroll’s lacrosse program has carved out its own identity — one rooted in substance.
“What makes the Carroll lacrosse program special is the brotherhood of the team,” Bushaw said.
It’s not just a buzzword. Bushaw still keeps in touch with players from every class ahead of him, a reflection of a program where alumni return to mentor the youth.
“I’ve met some of my closest friends on this team,” he said. “I still keep in touch with Jack Manero [currently playing lacrosse at West Point] and Connor Spagnoli [recently graduated from Towson]. I also still keep in touch with [former Carroll lacrosse players] Tyler Williams, Christian Coniglio, Drake Anderson, and more.
“Everybody cares about each other and wants to see the team succeed.”
“I want younger players to look at my path and see that you don’t need perfect circumstances to succeed. You just need belief and work ethic.”
— Max Bushaw
That environment helped shape Max as much as any drill. “We’re known for football, but being able to compete with the top lacrosse teams in Texas shows how well-rounded we are. Coach Frady holds us to a very high standard and pushes me to be better every day. He’s shown me how to lead the team while maintaining a good balance of love and accountability.”
When the college recruiting process narrowed, Max found his alignment at Notre Dame.
“It’s the right fit for me because I’ll have the opportunity to compete for championships while earning a top-tier education,” he said. “It challenges me athletically, sharpens me academically, and aligns with the standard I hold for myself.”
On the turf, Max is joining a juggernaut. Under the guidance of legendary head coach Kevin Corrigan, the Fighting Irish have ascended to the iron throne of the NCAA with back-to-back National Championships in 2023 and 2024, punctuated by a masterclass 15-5 victory over Maryland in the '24 title game. While the Irish fell just short of a legendary three-peat in 2025 — dropping a 14-12 heartbreaker to Penn State in the quarterfinals — the foundation remains unshakable.
By heading to South Bend, Max enters an environment where "rebuilding" is a foreign concept and "reloading" is the expectation. He joins a locker room defined by elite talent and a relentless winning culture, positioning himself to be a key piece in the Irish’s quest to reclaim the throne.
For a kid who spent his childhood perfecting "Twizzlers" in a Texas backyard, the opportunity to wear the iconic gold helmet is the ultimate validation of a decade of work.
“I felt very grateful and had a big reflection on everything that it took me to get to where I am now,” he said of signing. “But at the same time, I know this is just the beginning.”
MORE THAN PRODUCTION
Max entered his senior season with a career total of 117 goals and 35 assists — numbers that place him among the most impactful players in Carroll history. However, his final chapter as a Dragon took an unexpected turn. A nagging lower-body injury sidelined the star for all but two games of his senior season.
While it wasn't the swan song he envisioned, the time on the sideline allowed Max to transition fully into a player-coach role, pouring his energy into the underclassmen.
“I want my legacy to be bigger than stats or awards,” he said. “I want younger players to look at my path and see that you don’t need perfect circumstances to succeed. You just need belief and work ethic. I hope I showed them that if you put your mind to something and commit to it fully, anything’s possible, no matter where you start. More than anything, I want to be remembered as someone who raised the standard, led the right way, and made the next generation believe they can achieve more.”
As he turns the page on Carroll and looks ahead to the lacrosse hotbed that is the Atlantic Coast Conference, that journey — marked by belief and leadership — is already leaving a permanent mark. Max’s legacy won’t just be measured in the "Twizzler" goals of his youth, but in the standard of excellence he leaves behind for every Dragon who picks up a stick.
SPORTS IN REVIEW
DRAGONS BOYS SOCCER
BALANCED LINEUP PROPELED TEAM TO THIRD ROUND
The Carroll boys soccer team turned in another impressive season, finishing 16-1-8 overall and 10-0-6 in District 4-6A play. The Dragons combined a prolific offense with a stingy defense to dominate much of their schedule, ultimately reaching the regional semifinal of the 6A Division 2 playoffs, where they fell, 3-2, to Plano West.
Carroll’s regular season showcased balance and depth across the roster. Senior center back Noah Abiodun anchored the backline and provided vocal leadership, while goalkeeper Graham Byrne tallied 10 shutouts on the season. Byrne’s shotstopping ability, combined with his precise communication and distribution, helped Carroll maintain a league-low goals-against average of 0.94 in district play.
“Our starting goalkeeper was a huge part of our success defensively,” head coach Chris Padilla said. “His communication kept us organized, and his distribution allowed us to quickly transition from defending to attacking.”
Offensively, Carroll averaged 2.68 goals per game, with multiple players contributing consistently. Senior forwards Jad Shehadeh and John Skiermont were the primary threats, combining for 38 goals and 26 assists. Midfielders Cole Swett, Jimi Iluyomade, and Hyoungju Kim provided offensive support and stability, controlling possession and dictating tempo.
“Jad and John were extremely effective attacking threats,” Padilla said. “And our midfield did an excellent job both offensively and defensively, helping us control games.”
Carroll’s ability to dictate tempo and maintain possession was a defining characteristic all season, as the Dragons consistently controlled matches regardless of opponent. Their chemistry and unselfish style of play allowed them to create scoring opportunities from multiple areas on the field, making them one of the most difficult teams in the region to defend.
Carroll’s dominance was evident in key regular-season victories, including a 4-2 win over Grand Oaks, a 7-0 district shutout of Eaton, and a decisive 4-1 win over district-rival Grapevine. The Dragons’ ability to rotate attacking and defensive responsibilities allowed them to maintain intensity across a long schedule, outscoring opponents 67-24 overall.
Padilla specifically mentioned first-year varsity striker Drew Stitzel, who emerged as a breakout player with nine goals and five assists, and Bennet Bormaster.
“Drew exceeded expectations in his first year on varsity,” Padilla said. “And Bennett was very effective for us, not only defensively but also providing an attacking spark.”
In the playoffs, the Dragons defeated Mansfield Legacy 3-1 in the bi-district round and handled Montwood 5-0 in the area round. Their run ended in a tightly contested loss to Plano West in the regional semifinal, a match that came down to a handful of key moments late in the game. After a back-and-forth contest, Carroll took a 2-1 lead in the first overtime period on a goal by Skiermont, but Plano West quickly responded with an equalizer just minutes later. The Wolves continued to apply pressure and capitalized on a corner kick in the final minutes of the second overtime, scoring the game-winner with just under three minutes remaining to secure the 3-2 victory.
Despite falling short of the state tournament, Padilla highlighted the team’s resilience and adaptability throughout the season.
“Regardless of the scenario — quality opposition, illness, injury, or any type of adversity — we had a group of players that rose to the challenge and played for each other,” he said. “We spoke often about controlling the controllables. We focused on what we do in training and on game nights, and we let the results speak for themselves.”
Head Coach: Chris Padilla
Assistant Coaches: Ian Gonzales, Mike Tibbitts, Marshall Mann
Ben Blount
Bruno Ganimi
Aiden Ilin
Jimi Iluyomade
Pontikis
Jad Shehadeh
Drew Stitzel
Max Tommasi
Vidal
Arhan Vontela
DRAGONS GIRLS SOCCER
NEW RECORDS SET DURING DOMINANT SEASON
Dominant from start to finish, the Carroll girls soccer team delivered one of the most complete seasons in program history.
The Lady Dragons finished 26-1-1 overall and a perfect 16-0 in district play, pairing explosive offense with record-setting defense en route to a Class 6A state semifinal appearance.
“This year’s team had incredible belief and trust in each other,” head coach Matt Colvin said. “Their bond off the field was evident in the way they competed on the field.”
That connection translated into remarkable production. Carroll scored 131 goals while allowing just six all season — a program record for goals conceded. Even more impressive, only one of those goals came during district play. The Lady Dragons controlled matches with a possession-heavy style, regularly completing significantly more passes than their opponents while maintaining relentless defensive pressure.
Leading the offense was Paige Hayes, who posted 40 goals and 23 assists for 103 points. She was supported by a balanced attack that included Cameron Holcombe (18 goals, 15 assists) and Macie Colvin (17 goals), along with a deep roster of contributors that made Carroll difficult to defend.
In the midfield, players like Audrey Anderson and Lexi Khan helped dictate tempo and maintain structure, while the defense executed a high-pressure approach that limited opponents’ opportunities. Goalkeepers Sophie Adcock and Anna Winters anchored the back line, combining for 23 shutouts across 28 matches. Their consistency and communication proved vital in tight playoff matches, where a single mistake could decide the outcome.
“The biggest factor was that we wanted to be in control of each match, whether we had the ball or we were defending,” Colvin said.
That control carried the Lady Dragons through district and deep into the postseason, where they once again looked poised for a state title. Along the way, they consistently dictated pace and composure, rarely trailing and forcing opponents to adjust to their style of play.
Instead, their season ended in a tightly contested 1-0 semifinal loss to Forney.
“Forney was a formidable opponent that was in our face and did a good job of disrupting our high tempo,” Colvin said. “We conceded a goal and they were able to limit clear looks.”
The match was a contrast in styles. Forney applied consistent high pressure in Carroll’s defensive half, preventing the Lady Dragons from settling into their rhythm. Despite stretches of possession, Carroll struggled to generate clean scoring chances — a rarity for a team shut out just once all season.
Colvin said the game ultimately came down to a few key moments, with Forney’s execution proving decisive.
Though the loss was a difficult ending, it did little to diminish the season. Over the past five years, Carroll has maintained one of the state’s most consistent programs, and this group added to that legacy.
“We’ve lost only one game in four of the last five years,” Colvin said. “It’s rare. Our program has been on an unbelievable run these last few years. This team was all about winning a state championship, and although we fell a bit short, their focus and commitment to each other was the driving force.”
More than results, the 2026 Lady Dragons will be remembered for the standard they upheld.
“This group did so much for our culture and has left the program in a better place than they found it,” Colvin said.
Head Coach: Matt Colvin
Assistant Coaches:
Lindsey Jacobson, Alli Loftin
Sophie Adcock So
Audrey Anderson Jr.
Cristina Auns Fr.
Mariana Auns Fr.
Haley Badgett Sr
Lauren Brown So
Brady Burtnett Sr
Kylee Carroll Jr.
Avery Cavrich Fr.
Ria Chavez Jr.
Macie Colvin So
Alexis Fisher Jr.
Kylee Fridborg Jr.
Sophia Garland Sr
Peyton Hayes Sr
Maura Hayes So
Sophia Hill Jr.
Caroline Holcombe Sr
Olivia Holcombe Sr
Mia Jose Jr.
Lexi Khan Sr
Kidist Lydick Jr.
Sydney Martin Jr.
Maggie Marini Fr.
Berklee McCombs So
Dahlia Nuhu Jr.
Mia Nunez Jr.
Audrina Nunez Jr.
Caroline Smith Sr
Ava Sexton Sr
Tori Stovall So
Presley Wilkerson Jr.
Anna Winters Jr.
DRAGONS
DRAGONS OVERCOME 1-8 START TO KEEP PLAYOFF STREAK ALIVE
As February came to a close, the Dragon baseball team was a statistical longshot for the playoffs, sitting at the bottom of the standings. They ended April as one of the toughest teams in the state.
Against all odds, Carroll qualified for the UIL playoffs for the 28th consecutive year. To the outsider, it might look like business as usual. To those inside the clubhouse, it was a season defined by a a massive youth movement, and a refusal to fade.
The season began with a calculated but risky gamble: Head Coach Larry Vucan and his staff made the decision to regularly play as many as eight sophomores.
"They were very talented, just inexperienced," Vucan said. "It’s been a really steep learning curve for all of us."
That curve felt more like a cliff early in District 4-6A play. The Dragons dropped eight of their first nine district games, a reality that Vucan admits affected the team's psyche. The speed of the varsity game was relentless, and the absence of their only pitcher with 2025 experience left the staff scrambling. The strength of the district meant any small mistake could be fatal.
A prime example was a 5-1 loss to Byron Nelson: sophomore starter AJ Bonnette was nearly perfect, surrendering only a single hit in seven innings of work. Unfortunately, that lone hit was a grand slam—a brutal reminder of how thin the margins for error are at this level.
"Confidence is a tricky thing in this game," Vucan said. "We definitely were in a period where our kids and even coaches were concerned."
Every great comeback has a moment, though. For the 2026 Dragons, it came against Timber Creek. Down 6-0 and facing yet another district loss – one that would most likely eliminate the team from playoff contention – the Dragons clawed back to win on a walk-off.
"That game was the catalyst,” Vucan said. “The kids never stopped fighting.”
From that point on, the game finally began to slow down for the sophomores. The "Baseball Gods," as Vucan calls them, began to reward consistent effort; ground balls that previously burned them started finding holes, and line drives that once fell for hits began finding Dragon gloves. That shift sparked a scorching eightgame winning streak to close the regular season—a dominant run highlighted by outscoring opponents 24-6 over a four-game stretch. The peak of their resurgence came against L.D. Bell, where Jackson Smith, Gavin Morriss, and Carson Austin combined to toss a no-hitter. Carroll punctuated their turnaround by toppling state-ranked powerhouse Liberty Christian,.
While the youth provided the spark, the leadership set the tone. Cam Dean (.380 batting average), Matthew Heredia (.333), and Cooper Newby (teamleading three triples) anchored the field, while Bo Kuhn emerged as a pitcher providing much-needed quality starts on the mound. Perhaps most importantly, seniors Shawn Arterburn (11 hits, seven runs batted in) and Gavin Strange (.276 average, 16 hits) acted as the glue, turning the clubhouse into a refuge from the weight of outside expectations.
"I did not know that this young of a group could coalesce around adversity in the way that they have," Vucan said. "They are a gritty group that is passionate about their teammates and the program. It was very inspiring." Head Coach:
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DRAGONS SOFTBALL
LADY DRAGONS BUILD ELITE FOUNDATION WITH YOUNG ROSTER
For the Lady Dragons softball team, the 2026 season wasn’t defined by a graduation calendar or a "rebuilding" label.
While a final-day victory by Northwest Eaton over Keller ultimately nudged Carroll into fifth place in the standings — narrowly missing the postseason — the results on the dirt told a story of immediate high-level contention.
Finishing with a sharp 10-6 district record and a 21-12 overall mark, the Lady Dragons proved that the standard of excellence remains unchanged, regardless of age. Veteran head coach Tim Stuewe, who reached the milestone of 400 career victories this spring, oversaw a roster composed of nine underclassmen and just a single senior. Yet, the team bypassed the typical learning curve, opting instead to go toe-to-toe with the region's established powerhouses right now.
That culture of shared responsibility took root early. Leadership wasn't a matter of seniority; it was a byproduct of performance. Rather than playing for "down the road," this group operated with a maturity that belied their years, transforming a season of transition into a season of arrival.
“Olivia McCarrick, our lone senior, really embraced the responsibility of leading this group,” Stuewe said. “Returning lettermen like Cate Stoklas and others stepped into leadership roles, so it became a shared leadership group rather than relying on one class.”
The most striking element of the 2026 Lady Dragons was the concentration of freshmen and sophomores in high-leverage positions. Throughout the season, the Lady Dragons showed flashes of massive offensive firepower and resilience, including in dominant wins over Fossil Ridge (11-6) and McKinney Boyd (12-2). The team also proved they could win the close ones, securing an 8-6 thriller over Lake Ridge and an identical 8-6 win over district-rival Euless Trinity.
Sophomore Bella Garcia emerged as a legitimate powerhouse, leading the team in batting average (.460), hits (52), home runs (8), and RBIs (44). Her .996 fielding percentage and .735 slugging percentage cemented her status as one of the premier dual-threats in the region.
She was flanked by McCarrick, who capped her high school career with a stellar .414 average, leading the team in doubles (11) and triples (5). Meanwhile, Cate Stoklas proved to be the ultimate table-setter, leading the Dragons in runs scored (44), stolen bases (14), and a team-high .488 on-base percentage.
Inevitably, a youth movement brought growing pains in the "little things, " such as communication and situational awareness. However, those nuances were learned through live innings, and the Lady Dragons showed steady improvement during a six-game district winning streak in the second half of play. The surge was fueled largely by a dominant pitching staff led by sophomore Olivia Wiske, who posted a team-best 2.46 ERA and a .420 batting average, and Audrey Stroud, who provided a commanding presence with a 3.62 ERA.
Contributing to the offensive depth were Karsyn Briggle, who maintained a sharp .473 OBP, and Sadie McCarrick, who drove in 23 runs. Kenzie Fuller also added speed to the lineup, contributing multiple triples during the team’s late-season push.
While tough losses to Byron Nelson and the Keller schools ultimately halted their momentum, the experience gained was immeasurable. And despite falling just short of a postseason berth, the groundwork has clearly been laid.
“The exciting part is that many of these players gained valuable varsity experience early,” Stuewe said. “If we continue improving and building confidence as a group, that sets a strong foundation for the future of the program.
Head Coach: Tim Stewe
Assistant Coaches: Jennifer Hutto, Emilia Egel, Callie Gressett
8 Lily Amezaga-Sanchez Jr.
19 Shaylee Branch Jr.
12 Karsyn Briggle So
16 Mary Cate Cretella Fr.
3 Kenzie Fuller Fr.
9 Bella Garcia So
2 Audrey Gillett Jr.
18 Olivia McCarrick Sr
10 Sadie McCarrick Fr.
17 Lilah Rodriguez So
13 Kiera Schlisky So
5 Cate Stoklas Jr.
4 Audrey Stroud So
15 Olivia Wiske So
DRAGONS BOYS LACROSSE
DEPTH CARRIES BOYS LACROSSE TO STRONG SEASON
When head boys lacrosse coach Bruce Frady arrived in Carroll ISD after more than a decade in the college ranks, one thing stood out immediately: the sheer volume of athletes.
That depth has helped fuel a program built on passion, accountability, and daily discipline — traits that have officially propelled the team to qualify for the 2026 Texas boys lacrosse playoffs.
“I think it’s important to have passion for everything we do,” Frady said. “To be grateful for this sport and everything this community has given our boys and families. Accountability starts with how you go about being the best student and athlete each one of our boys aspires to be.”
That mindset is showing up on the field in a big way this season — and notably, without one of Carroll’s biggest stars for much of it.
Senior standout Max Bushaw has missed significant time due to injury, a tough blow for an offense built around the Notre Dame commit’s versatility and high-level playmaking. But rather than stall, the Dragons have adapted. In Bushaw’s absence, a deep and dynamic group has stepped up to keep the offense humming and the wins coming.
Alec Parrott led the team’s charge into the postseason, finishing the regular season with 41 goals and 106 shots on goal, while Zach Grieve (28 goals, 18 assists) and Graham Sheehan (21 goals, 23 assists) provided a lethal secondary punch. Graham Amen also remained a vital part of the rotation, contributing 11 goals and 11 assists.
The depth extends well beyond the top scorers. Talon Frye has notched 11 points, Mack Taylor has 12 goals and 16 points, and Easton Behr scored seven goals. Younger contributors like Abram Hulse and Zach Willock continue to make an impact, reinforcing the balanced, unselfish approach head coach Ben Frady emphasizes.
“The numbers reflect exactly how we want to play — versatile, unselfish and dangerous from anywhere,” Frady said. “To be a great offensive player, you have to be able to do it all — feed, shoot, dodge and play both ways.”
Even sidelined, Bushaw’s presence is still felt — and his emergence as a top national recruit is part of a larger trend at Carroll, where a public school program continues to produce college-level talent at an increasing rate.
“It shows our younger players that with hard work, passion and commitment, they can play at the next level too,” Frady said. “Max can play anywhere on the field and, in my opinion, be one of the best players out there.”
Frady is just as focused on what happens away from the scoreboard. A key pillar of the program is its “brotherhood,” strengthened through shared experiences like the team’s annual spring break trip.
“We take this trip each year to compete against out-of-state teams, but more importantly it’s an opportunity for our guys to hang out together and build more of a family environment,” he said.
As the postseason approaches, Frady’s message is simple: stay present.
“Our guys are focused on this season,” Frady said. “They are leading by example — doing well academically, making great decisions off the field, continuing to develop their game, and spending time in the gym to get bigger and stronger.”
In the end, the stat sheet tells part of the story. The rest is the standard behind it — one that values growth, accountability, and building something that lasts well beyond a single lacrosse season.
“Our goal is that everyone creates their own path through their lacrosse experience,” Frady said.
Head Coach: Bruce Frady
Assistant
DRAGONS
GIRLS LACROSSE
PLAYOFFS AWAIT LADY DRAGONS AFTER DOMINANT SEASON
With a stellar 13-2 record, the Lady Dragons officially secured their spot in the 2026 Texas lacrosse playoffs. They enter the tournament not just as contenders, but as a unit defined by a rare brand of maturity.
Every graduating class leaves a unique fingerprint on a program. For Head Coach Rainey Hodgson, the 2026 squad’s identity is rooted in "composure and cohesion." Unlike previous rosters that may have relied on individual playmaking, this group operates as a disciplined, high-functioning unit that prioritizes the collective over the self.
"I’d describe their personality as steady, competitive, and very connected," Hodgson says. "They’re not flashy, but they show up daily, do things the right way, and hold each other accountable, which has led to strong trust and consistency. Their playing style is disciplined and team-first — they move the ball well, make smart decisions, and play with controlled pace."
This "team-first" philosophy was born out of tactical necessity. After graduating ten seniors last year, the Lady Dragons had significant holes to fill. Hodgson implemented systems that capitalized on the team's collective speed and stick skills, moving away from one-on-one isolations toward a game of spacing and anticipation. By emphasizing ball movement and intentional decision-making, Hodgson created an environment where multiple players could become threats simultaneously, forcing defenses to cover the entire field rather than focusing on a single star.
The heart of this system beats in the midfield, where the "engines" of the team, Lauren Tiddy and Alexa Koerkel, dominate the transition game. Koerkel, a Stanford commit, has been a statistical powerhouse, leading the team with 43 goals, 16 assists, and a staggering 72 draw controls. Tiddy, who is committed to Robert Morris University, follows closely with 18 goals and 26 draw controls.
"They consistently come up with the hustle plays — draw controls, 50/50 ground balls, clears — and set the tone with their effort and competitiveness," Hodgson says.
Those plays swing momentum, a fact proven during a season-defining win against powerhouse Highland Park. After trailing 7-3 at the half and playing a player down due to yellow cards, the Lady Dragons clawed back to force overtime. A heroic defensive stop and a clinical skip pass to Tiddy for the game-winning goal served as a microcosm of their season — resilient, determined, and calm under pressure.
This veteran grit has provided a perfect umbrella for the team's youth to flourish. The five seniors have acted as vital mentors, utilizing their diverse experiences —ranging from four-year varsity starters to those who climbed the ranks through JV — to guide a talented crop of underclassmen, including breakout freshman Sienna Sowin, who has already tallied 13 goals and 17 draw controls, as well as junior goalie Lily Caskey and sophomore defenders Madeline Dorr and Lexi Krieger.
As the Super Regionals approach, Hodgson’s message in the huddle remains rooted in the fundamentals that got them here.
“We focus on the little things,” she said. “Clean passes, smart decisions, and control what we can control.”
Head Coach: Rainey Hodgson Assistant Coaches:
DRAGONS BOYS GOLF
BOY’S GOLF EXCELS AT REGIONALS EN ROUTE TO STATE
The Carroll boys golf program completed a dominant 2026 season with a sixthplace finish at the Texas Class 6A state tournament, cementing itself yet again as one of Texas’ premier programs.
While the competition in Georgetown featured the best talent in the state, the Dragons proved they belonged among the elite, capping off a postseason run defined by veteran leadership and steady execution under pressure.
A commanding performance at the regional meet at Tangle Ridge officially punched the Dragons’ state ticket. Carroll ran away with the regional trophy with a total of 581 (+4), powered by consistent rounds of 289 and 292. Preston Mohon led the charge as the individual silver medalist with a 141, followed by strong performances from Andrea Birolini (143) and Ayden Patel (145). Caden Barber’s 152 and Colton Hubbard’s 154 ensured the team victory, while individual medalist Jett Campbell showcased his grit with a 150 to round out a dominant showing.
This victory at the regional level followed a first-place showing at the District 4-6A tournament, where the Dragons signaled they were the team to beat by easily dispatching the competition. By navigating the pressure of the district field, the boys built the necessary momentum to handle the higher stakes at the regional and state levels.
Head coach Paige Martin, who became a Class A PGA Professional in 2025 after completing the PGA of America’s professional certification program, noted throughout the season that her six seniors — Birolini, Mohon, Barber, Matthew Bouley, Patel, and Kyle Davis — were instrumental in shaping the team culture.
“It’s been fun to watch them work as a unit and lead our younger players,” Martin said. “They’ve pretty much grown up together playing, and their influence was felt throughout the roster. They matured on and off the golf course and made decisions based on their games instead of what the rest of the field was doing.”
Over the years, Martin watched this group mature from high-energy underclassmen into composed tacticians who understood the nuances of a long tournament. When they were younger, they relied on talent and energy, but by the end of their 2026 campaign, Martin said they played with a deeper understanding of the game.
Davis became a reliable scoring option, while Campbell impressed with clutch putts under pressure. Freshman Colton Hubbard also showed rapid improvement in course management, often asking seniors for advice on strategy before critical shots, demonstrating the way the senior leadership shaped the next generation of Carroll golfers.
The depth of the roster proved to be the team's greatest asset during the final stretch of the season.
“We weren’t relying on one or two players this year — it was truly a team effort,” Martin said.
Consistency was the primary focus as the Dragons prepared for the state stage. By maintaining strategic preparation and a "one step at a time" philosophy, the team avoided the pitfall of getting ahead of the course they were facing. Martin emphasized that to succeed, the team needed to stay in the moment and not look past the immediate challenge.
“They will be remembered as a group that brought the program back on track on the boys’ side,” Martin said. “Even though they started the season as underdogs, they stayed diligent and worked to advance in postseason play.”
Head Coaches: Paige Martin and Matt Glenn
Assistant Coach: Tim Gaestel
Caden Barber So
Andrea Birolini Sr
Matthew Bouley Sr
Jett Campbell Sr
Kye Davis Sr
Austin Ganiear Jr.
Colton Hubbard Jr.
Preston Mohon Sr
Ayden Patel Sr
Ethan Ross Jr.
Finn Seipel Jr.
Finnegan Smith So
DRAGONS GIRLS GOLF
GIRLS GOLF DOMINATE REGIONALS EN ROUTE TO STATE
The Lady Dragons left no doubt about their championship aspirations on the golf course, delivering a masterclass in consistency to secure the regional title in April and a spot at state.
Carroll’s Black Team set a blistering pace at the regional tournament, firing a two-day total of 580 (+4) to secure their place atop the leaderboard. After an opening round of 295, the squad surged to a remarkable second-round 285 to seal the victory. Freshman Olivia Neal captured the Individual Regional title in dramatic fashion, winning a playoff after posting rounds of 70 and 74.
How dominant were the Lady Dragons at regionals? Neal wasn’t the only headliner: junior Gia Ahlowalia secured third place following a playoff against senior teammate Tyler Burtnett, after both finished with impressive totals of 145. Stephanie De Marco’s steady 146 and Aubrie Nolen’s 158 provided the critical depth needed to finalize the victory.
That depth was further highlighted by the Green Team, which earned a hardfought fourth-place finish with a 619 (+43). Led by Hailey Cole’s 152 and Brooklynn Lodes’ 153, the squad saw strong finishes from Savannah Taggart (154), Soha Modh (161), and Callie Stevens (161).
Head coach Paige Martin, who became a Class A PGA Professional in 2025, says this senior group has played a central role in building the foundation for this success.
“This senior group has really helped shape the identity of our program,” Martin said. “We have always emphasized accountability, work ethic, and team-first mentality, and they bought in and made it their own. Over the years, they’ve helped establish a standard — not just in tournaments, but in practice habits, offseason commitment, and how we represent the program. The culture we have now is largely driven by their consistency and leadership.”
That leadership has evolved steadily over time. Before this year, Burtnett, Brooklynn Lodes, Soha Modh, and Nolen set the tone on Carroll’s varsity team through their play. Now, as seniors, they influence the lineup in more visible ways, taking on greater responsibility in guiding and supporting their teammates.
“As leaders, the biggest growth has been their voice and presence,” Martin said. “They’re communicating, holding teammates accountable, and helping younger players through tough stretches. They’ve learned that leadership isn’t just about performance — it’s about responsibility and steadiness.”
This progression is reflected in the team’s overall development, as Carroll has become more balanced and disciplined.
“They are relentless in practice and prepare better than most I have seen,” Martin said. “Mentally, they are strong and are able to bounce back from mistakes. Statistically, we’ve become more balanced and are limiting mistakes.”
Martin believes the legacy of this group is already secure – regardless of how the state competition goes.
“This year’s team will be remembered as a group that continued to protect the Carroll tradition,” Martin said. “Not just for wins, but for how to build a program the right way. They’ve invested years into raising expectations and strengthening the culture. If they finish the way they’re capable of, they won’t just be remembered for banners or records but for leaving the program better than they found it.”
Head Coaches: Paige Martin
and Matt Glenn
Assistant Coach: Tim Gaestel
Tyler Burtnett Sr
Brooklynn Lodes Sr
Soha Modh Sr
Aubrie Nolen Sr
Gia Ahlowalia Jr.
Hailey Cole Jr.
Stephanie De Marco Jr.
Savannah Taggart Jr.
Olivia Neal Fr.
available on-site.
THREE TIMES RUNNING
There's no stopping Caden Leonard p.38
Humility in Excellence
Boys soccer coach Chris Padilla earns 100th career win
For head soccer coach Chris Padilla, reaching the 100th career victory mark this February was less about the scoreboard and more about the foundation of his coaching journey.
While he has upheld the high standards of the Carroll sidelines since 2021, his path to becoming only the second man to lead the program since the retirement of icon Greg Oglesby was defined by years of grit across the Texas soccer landscape.
Padilla’s experience is rooted in both the collegiate and high school ranks. A former All-Conference player at Texas Lutheran University, he transitioned into coaching as an assistant for the Bulldogs before moving to Keller Central. He later earned his firsthead coaching role at Harker Heights (2016–2019), where he began building the tactical reputation that eventually brought him to Carroll.
Padilla served as a key assistant under the previous Carroll staff before taking the reins himself, twice earning TASCO Region 1 Assistant Coach of the Year honors in 2020 and 2021. This period allowed him to master the "Dragon Way" while preparing to implement his own modern vision. Since being promoted, Padilla has amassed a 74–26–19 overall record at Carroll, including a dominant 43–14–13 mark in district play.
While the 2026 season saw a District 4-6A championship and another playoff run, Padilla remains focused on the human element.
“More than anything, I'm just extremely blessed to have been surrounded by so many amazing players and coaches,” Padilla said. “The constant for me has been building relationships — providing the support, encouragement and belief for players to be the best versions of themselves.” Photo by Rodney Wooters
Meet Elsa Kackley
As a 2026 Readers’ Choice winner and a top-ranking agent at Keller Williams Southlake, Elsa is deeply rooted in the community she serves. Known for her thoughtful, strategic approach, she delivers results that speak for themselves. Elsa is grateful for the support of her clients and friends and looks forward to helping more local families sell their properties and find their dream home.
“I cannot recommend Elsa Otero-Kackley highly enough! She recently helped me sell my home in Dallas, and the entire experience exceeded my expectations from start to finish. Her deep understanding of the DFW market and her industry expertise gave me total confidence throughout the process, and she was a strong and thoughtful negotiator, always looking out for my best interest. What really stood out was how much she truly went above and beyond, whether it was managing last-minute details, providing honest advice, or just being available and responsive whenever I had a question or concern.” — Seller, Taylor A.
Dedicated Dragon Mom | 14 Years Experience | 18 Years In Southlake
Keeping It 100
Wiske, Stroud dominate in circle – and beyond
One hundred strikeouts is a career benchmark as a softball pitcher. For Olivia Wiske and Audrey Stroud, it’s merely a sophomore-year status update.
The duo recently crossed the century mark in career punch-outs, a feat that underscores the elite quality and veteran-like composure they have brought to the Carroll rotation. While the milestone is impressive on its own, the blistering efficiency with which they reached it is equally exciting for the Lady Dragon faithful.
Despite their underclassmen status, Wiske and Stroud have quickly established themselves as the definitive anchors of the Carroll staff. Wiske has been especially dominant, posting a 2.57 ERA while consistently missing bats and limiting scoring opportunities
in high-leverage moments. Stroud complements her with a commanding presence of her own, mixing pitches effectively to the tune of a 3.62 ERA.
The most frightening realization for opposing coaches is that these two are just as dangerous at the plate as they are from the circle. Both have emerged as reliable, heavyhitting fixturesin the Carroll lineup, combining for 46 hits, 29 runs batted in, and 30 runs scored this season.
It is important to remember these are only sophomores; Stroud and Wiske still have two full varsity seasons to build upon this already elite foundation. With this duo leading the charge in the circle and the batter's box, Carroll’s future looks incredibly bright. And if tripledigit strikeouts are just the beginning, fans are witnessing the start of a special era.
by Stewart Johnson / Snapped Dragons
Photos
Audrey Stroud
Olivia Wiske
CARROLL LEADS LONE STAR CUP HEADING INTO THIRD UPDATE
The University Interscholastic League Lone Star Cup Update No. 3 is set for May 22, and Carroll High School sits firmlyin the driver’s seat. The Dragons lead the 6A standings with 96 points, well ahead of Flower Mound High School (71) and Westlake and Allen (68). The latest update includes points from FIRST Robotics, soccer, golf, track and field tennis, finearts and academics — showcasing Carroll’s across-the-board excellence.
GAVIN STRANGE RECEIVES KIWANIS STALCUP HONOR
Carroll senior Gavin Strange has been named the 2026 recipient of the Charlie Stalcup Heart of a Dragon Award by the Kiwanis Club of Southlake. The honor recognizes a Carroll football player who exemplifies leadership and perseverance and includes a $1,500 scholarship. Strange, a standout kicker who has committed to Duke University, was a key contributor for the Dragons and delivered one of the program’s memorable postseason moments with a game-winning field goal in the 2024 state semifinal
BUILT FOR COMMUNITY
Image by Amber Tice
DRAGON FOOTBALL ANNOUNCES 2026 SCHEDULE
The 2026 fall football schedule is officiallset, ushering in a new era for Southlake Carroll under head coach Lee Munn. After the departure of Riley Dodge to SMU, Munn—the program's defensive coordinator for the past eight seasons—takes the reins of a squad that went 14-1 last year. The gauntlet begins with a high-profileopener against Jenks (OK) at the Cotton Bowl, followed by elite non-district clashes with North Crowley, Allen, and Prosper. The Dragons also move into a restructured District 4-6A, which sees the exit of Euless Trinity and the arrival of Fort Worth Boswell to the slate.
DRAGON PITCHERS THROW NO-HITTER VS. BELL
Combined no-hitters don’t come around often — but Carroll pitching delivered one in a big way, blanking L.D. Bell in a 5–1 win in April. Junior left-hander Jackson Smith set the tone with three strikeouts over three innings, before sophomore Gavin Morris followed with two shutout innings and three more Ks in middle relief. Sophomore right-hander Cason Austin closed it out, escaping a bases-loaded jam in the sixth and finising the finaltwo innings to seal the combined no-hitter. Smith, Morris and Austin combined for 7.0 innings, 0 hits, 0 earned runs and 9 strikeouts in a standout district performance for the Dragons.
CADEN LEONARD THREE-PEATS AS GATORADE POY
Carroll senior Caden Leonard solidifiedhis status as a Texas legend, becoming the firt athlete named Gatorade Texas Boys Cross Country Player of the Year three times. Leonard is the firt boy in UIL 6A history to win three consecutive individual state titles, leading the Dragons to their seventh straight team championship. A Nike ELITE athlete, Leonard earned dual AllAmerican honors with third-place finishesat both Nike Cross Nationals and the Brooks Cross Country Championships. Leonard will be attending the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill on scholarship in the fall. Photo Courtesy of RunnerSpace and NSAF
CARROLL GOLFERS EARN ACADEMIC ALL-DISTRICT HONORS
Carroll golf was well-represented in Academic AllDistrict recognition, highlighting success both on the course and in the classroom. Seniors honored include Andrea Birolini, Aubrie Nolen, Ayden Patel, Brooklynn Lodes, Jett Campbell, Kyle Davis, Soha Modh and Tyler Burtnett. Juniors recognized are Callie Stevens, Colton Hubbard, Dane Oldelehr, Ethan Ross, Finn Seipel, Gia Ahlowalia, Hailey Cole, Savannah Taggart and Stephanie De Marco. Sophomore honorees include Caden Barber and Finnegan Smith, while freshmen Ellie Pritchett and Olivia Neal round out the list. Photo Courtesy of Carroll Golf
THREE BASEBALL SUMMER CAMPS AVAILABLE
Dragon baseball will host The Larry Vulcan Dragon Baseball Camp June 8–10 and 11–13 at the Dragon Baseball Field on the Carroll Senior High School campus, offering instruction for multiple age groups across three sessions. Session 1 (incoming K–6th graders) runs June 8–10 from 8–11 a.m. as an all-skills camp. Session 2 (incoming 7th–8th graders) is also June 8–10, running 12:30–3:30 p.m. as an evaluation camp. Session 3 (incoming 9th graders) takes place June 11–13, 12:30–3:30 p.m., also in an evaluation format. For registration forms and more information, register online at rankonesport. com. Photo by Stewart Johnson / Snapped Dragons
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ALL-DISTRICT LIST FILLED WITH DRAGON HOOPERS
Six Carroll Dragons boys basketball players earned All-District recognition following a competitive season in one of Texas’ toughest regions. Riley McCoart and Noah Johnson made the 4-6A First Team, while Brody Knowles and Bo Kuhn were named Second Team. Beckham McDonald and Aaron Greenberg received Honorable Mentions. Under head coach David Markley, Carroll reached the UIL state playoffs pushing a resilient Crowley team into overtime before falling 64-62 in a thrilling firt-round game. Photo by Rodney Wooters / Woo Doo Photo
STATE WRESTLING RECOGNIZES SEVERAL DRAGONS
Dragon wrestling closed out a standout season with a wave of statewide recognition for both athletes and coaches. Senior Keegan Sieracki was named Sports Illustrated’s Texas State Wrestler of the Year after a 41-3 season, capturing his second state title in three years and capping it with a statement semifinalwin over an undefeated opponent. Fellow senior Dylan Ota also earned major honors, being named UIL State Outstanding Wrestler and Texas High School Wrestling Coaches Association Wrestler of the Year after a dominant, consistent campaign. The accolades extended to the coaching staffas well, with Cameron Haddock and Joseph Hathaway named THSWCA State Coaches of the Year. Photo by Floyd Ota.
RJ MARYLAND SIGNS WITH NFL’S PACKERS
Carroll legend R.J. Maryland is officialltaking his talents to the NFL, signing with the Green Bay Packers as a high-priority undrafted free agent. The former SMU standout brings elite speed — clocking a 4.51 40-yard dash — to a Packers offense looking for dynamic playmakers. This signing marks a poetic full circle for the Maryland family: R.J.’s father, Cowboys great Russell Maryland, finished his toried career in Green Bay.
SOFTBALL CAMP SET FOR JUNE 8-10
Lady Dragon softball will host “Coach Tim Stuewe’s Lady Dragon Softball Camp” June 8–10 at the Carroll Senior High Softball Field (1501 Southlake Blvd), focusing on fundamentals and skill development for young athletes. The camp features two daily sessions: 8–10:30 a.m. for incoming 1st–5th graders and 11 a.m.–2 p.m. for incoming 6th–9th graders. Registration and check-in run 7:45–8 a.m., with online pre-registration encouraged. Cost is $180 with pre-registration and includes a T-shirt. Walk-up registration is available for $200. For questions, contact ldsoftballcamp@gmail.com. Photo by Stewart Johnson
DRAGONS DOMINATE TSWA
ALL-STATE FOOTBALL LIST
Six Dragons earned Blue Bell/TSWA All-State honors following a stellar season. Quarterback Angelo Ren da, center Carey Clayton, receiver Brock Boyd, and guard Tristan Dare secured First Team spots, while Blake Gunter and Crawford Taylor earned honorable mentions. These accolades mirror a dominant 14-1 campaign where Carroll marched to the state nals before falling in a high-scoring battle to eventual champion DeSoto.
ALL-DISTRICT HONORS STACK UP FOR DRAGON SOCCER
Carroll was heavily featured in 4-6A boys soccer honors, led by MVP John Skiermont and Co-Coach of the Year Chris Padilla. First Team selections included Skiermont, Jad Shehadeh, Cole Swett, Noah Abiodun, Graham Byrne, Hyoungju Kim, Jimi Iluyomade, Drew Stitzel, Bennett Bormaster and Lucas Bollon. Second Team honors went to Graham Buete, Grayson Williams, Kyle Vidal and Bruno Ganimi. Honorable Mentions included Josh Dyer and Nick Cornell. Academic All-State recognition was earned by Aiden Ilin, Lex Morgan, Andrew Scrogham, Arhan Vontela, Ben Blount, Luke Pharr, Cole Swett, Cooper Gray, Jimi Iluyomade, Graham Buete, Graham Byrne, Max Tommasi, Michael Tran and Niko Pontikis. Photo by Rodney Wooters / Woo Doo Photo
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— Love, Mom, Dad, Tatum & Elliott BENJAMIN O'CALLAGHAN
We are so proud of the exceptional individual you've evolved into. We wish you a future that's as radiant as your spirit. May your path be illuminated with endless possibilities!
— Love, Dad, Mom & Elisabeth
SENIOR TRIBUTES
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Big things are ahead! We're very proud of you. On Wisconsin!
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UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS GOVERNMENT/PRE-LAW
Congrats on this amazing milestone, Brooke! Your kind heart and bright spirit make the world a better place. We’re excited to watch your story unfold at UT. Dream big. Hook ’em!
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How Joe Hathaway Built a Wrestling Powerhouse
After 16 years, 15 district titles and a staggering 229-43 record, head wrestling coach Joe Hathaway has built the Dragon wrestling program into a perennial powerhouse. A former U.S. Army Infantry Officer, Hathaway brings a unique brand of disciplined mentorship to the mat, focusing less on the accolades and more on the character of the athletes he leads. This past season served as a crowning achievement for his storied career: on the same night two of his wrestlers secured individual state titles, Hathaway himself was officiallinducted into the Texas High School Wrestling Coaches Association (THSWCA) Hall of Honor.
IT FELT VALIDATING TO... receive such an honor from my peers. I’ve looked up to and learned so much from the coaches that were already inducted, so to be included with that great group is very special. But honestly, things don’t feel all that different. We are still always trying to improve, and because every kid, day, and season is a new challenge, I’m already focused on trying to figue out the next puzzle.
I KNEW FROM THE DAY I GOT TO CARROLL... we could create something truly special. More than any one trophy, I measure our success on consistency — 15 district titles, 12 of them consecutive. No one year or moment stands apart from the rest; it’s been the collective effort of all of them. Looking back now, I’m proud of the standard we’ve maintained year after year.
THE U.S. ARMY IS THE BEST... leadership school and training in the world. When I became a head coach, my time as an Infantry Officer helped me understand the vital importance of developing a strong culture and leaders who would continue to build on that foundation. I learned so much about myself during the toughest times in the military, and I try to incorporate those critical lessons into wrestling for the kids.
IT WAS SPECIAL TO HAVE... my whole family there on the night of the induction. That finalday of the State Tournament can be a real whirlwind, especially with Dylan Ota and Keagan Sieracki winning individual titles, but having my family there helps me stay grounded. It keeps things in perspective. I wanted to stay calm and really enjoy the experience with our wrestlers — especially for the one I was coaching for the very last time in high school.
I AM MOST PROUD OF... helping facilitate more communication across our entire state during my time as THSWCA President. Texas is massive and it’s traditionally been hard to get everyone on the same page, but we organized representation from each region to communicate monthly.
CONSISTENCY AND COMPOSURE ARE... the biggest factors that separate a great wrestler from the rest of the pack. Being great takes an immense investment of time, and the nine state champions I've coached all invested that time on a consistent basis. The other separator is composure. The best kids keep a cool head and don't get rattled by adversity. The higher the level, the more adversity you face; these kids block it out and stay focused on the goal.
WE TAKE A "TEAM FIRST" APPROACH... to what is usually viewed as an individual sport. Carroll wrestling has become a dynasty, but every year and group is different. Even when you have the same kids returning, they mature and their relationships change. By building around the team rather than the individual, we elevate everyone in the room.
YOU’RE PROBABLY NOT GOING TO... make a million dollars wrestling, but I tell my athletes all the time that you will make that million by applying the things you learned on this mat to your life. I hope that when they leave our program, they have the confidene to know they can do hard things, the heart to be servant leaders, and the wisdom to know the importance of the relationships they build.
