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TEXAS COACH - (ISSN 0040-4241) - Copyright 2024 Texas High School Coaches’ Association, Inc.
PUBLISHER
TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL COACHES ASSOCIATION, INC.
PUBLISHING/EDITORIAL OFFICES:
2553 N INTERSTATE 35 FRONTAGE RD SAN MARCOS, TX 78666-5924 web: www.thsca.com
Subscriptions: Annual subscription to TEXAS COACH for members of the Texas High School Coaches Association is $20.00, which is included in the THSCA membership dues. For non-members, digital versions of the magazine may be accessed for free at www.thsca.com. Single copies are $5.00 per current volume. TEXAS COACH is published monthly except in June, July, and August and is dated the first of the publication month, although it is mailed around the 10th of the publication month.
Change of address: Request for change of address must reach us 30 days before the date of issue with which it is to take effect. Duplicate copies cannot be sent to replace those undelivered through failure to send advance notice. Email change of address notice to admin@thsca.com or members can go online and make the change in your member portal profile at www.thsca.com.
Periodicals Postage Paid at San Marcos, TX & additional entries. “All rights reserved”. (USPS 540-600).
POSTMASTER send address change to:
TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL COACHES ASSOCIATION P.O. Drawer 1138
SAN MARCOS, TX 78667-1138
Printed by Integ Printing Solutions in Austin, Texas.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
JOE MARTIN joemartin@thsca.com
ASSISTANT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
GLEN WEST glenwest@thsca.com
Chief Operating Officer of THSCA BRIAN POLK brianpolk@thsca.com
Chief Operating Officer of THSCEF LIBBY PACHECO libbypacheco@thsca.com
Director of Publications & Technology
BECKY ADAMS beckyadams@thsca.com
Director of Administration
MARGARET BEYER margaretbeyer@thsca.com
Director of Media & Marketing
ANNA BUCKALEW annabuckalew@thsca.com
Director of Exhibits & Sponsorships MOLLY FLY mollyfly@thsca.com
Director of Membership
ALLIE HERRMANN allieherrmann@thsca.com
Director of Hotels & Hospitality CHELSEA MILLER chelseamiller@thsca.com
Director of Finance & Accounting
KEVIN SMITH kevinsmith@thsca.com
Director of Public Relations & Awards TYLER WATTS tylerwatts@thsca.com
thsca OFFICERS & BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Finance: Sterling Doty, Dave Henigan, B.J. Gotte, *Kendall Miller, John Snelson, Drew Sanders
Bylaws: Chip Darden, *Chad Dunnam, Joe Hubbard, Clint Fuller, Shaun McDowell, Leo Mireles
Ethics: Chris Cochran, *LaQueisha Dickerson, Clint Hartman, Don Hyde, Marvin Sedberry Jr., Fred Staugh
Policy: Jerry Carpentier, Josh Gibson, Brian Randle, *Aaron Roan, Jacob Thompson, Todd Winfrey
Magazine: Kevin Crane, Jeff Ellison, Reuben Farias, Allen Gratts, *Lance Moffett, Juan Morales
Hall of Honor: Dub Farris, Gary Joseph, *Johnny Taylor, Allen Wilson *Denotes Chair
Director-Elects & Alternates:
DIRECTOR-ELECTS
Region 1 – Andy Cavalier, Canadian; Region 2 – Casey Pearce, Breckenridge; Region 3 – Josh Gibson, Pleasant Grove; Region 4 – Michael Pry, El Paso Coronado; Region 5 – Brian Randle, Randle; Region 6 – Don Hyde, La Vega; Region 7 – Ben Bitner, CC Veterans Memorial; Region 8 – Eddie Salas, San Antonio Harlan;
1ST ALTERNATES
Region 1 – Jason Richards, Frenship Memorial; Region 2 – Sammy Burnett Brownwood; Region 3 – Marcus Shavers, North Forney; Region 4 – Daren Walker, El Paso Franklin; Region 5 – Rick LaFavers, Ridge Point; Region 6 – Clint Fuller, Kilgore; Region 7 – David Sanchez, Laredo United; Region 8 – Tony Salazar, Westlake; 2nd ALTERNATES
Region 1 – Aaron Dunnam, Dumas; Region 2 – Mike Reed, Gordon; Region 3 – Antonio Wiley, Coppell; Region 4 – Frank Maldonado, Midl. Legacy; Region 5 – Travis Reeve, El Campo; Region 6 – Shane Tolleson, Waxahachie; Region 7 – JC Ramirez, Jr., Veterans Memorial; Region 8 – Doug Warren, Wimberley;
chip darden region 1 - lub. cooper
chad dunnam region 1 - amarillo
kendall miller past-Pres - emerson
drew sanders Pres-elect - vandegrift
john snelson President - dickinson
dave henigan region 3 - denton ryan sterling doty region 2 - stephenville
aaron roan region 2 - abl.
todd winfrey region 1 - canyon
clint hartman
fred staugh region 4 - monahans
marvin sedberry jr. region 3 - terrell
josh gibson (interim) region 3 - Pleasant Grove allen gratts
b.j.
(interim)
laqueisha dickerson region 5 - timberview
shaun mcdowell region 5 - grand oaks brian randle (interim) region 5 - randle jeff ellison
jerry carpentier
jacob
2024-2025 THSCA ADVISORY COMMITTEES
ATHLETIC DIRECTORS
R-1 Jason Richards, Frenship Memorial
R-2 Russell Lucas, Sweetwater
R-3 Seth Stinton, Melissa
R-4 *Jaime Boswell, Andrews
R-5 Virginia Flores, Cy-Fair
R-6 Don Drake, Ennis
R-7 Rob Davies, Harlingen
R-8 Stan Laing, Northside
ATHLETIC TRAINERS
R-1 Steven Ortiz, Midl. Legacy
R-2 Billy Abbe, Abilene
R-3 *Mike Harrison, Allen
R-4 Isaac Wimberley, Lub. Cooper
R-5 Aimee Williams, Fort Bend
R-6 Greg Goerig, Midlothian
R-7 Benjamin Garcia, Harlingen
R-8 Chad Hennessey, Georgetown
AQUATICS
R-1 OPEN
R-2 Casey Pacheco, Abl. Wylie
R-3 Eric Vogan, Texas High
R-4 *Michael Waldmann, Andrews
R-5 Robert Kelly, Pasadena
R-6 Daniel Gonzalez, Longview
R-7 Hector Castaneda Jr., Harl. South
R-8 Kari Brothers, Northside
BASEBALL
R-1 Thomas Brockman, Idalou
R-2 Allen McGee, Graham
R-3 Josh Wheeler, Muenster
R-4 Juan Orozco, EP Coronado
R-5 *Corey Cephus, Cy-Ranch
R-6 Matthew Anderson, Franklin
R-7 Adrian Alaniz, Sinton
R-8 Tom Alfieri, SA Churchill
BOYS BASKETBALL
R-1 Jason Pillion, Amarillo
R-2 *C.J. Villegas, Brady
R-3 Ty Tabor, Krum
R-4 Jason Archibald, Wink
R-5 Danny Russell, Friendswood
R-6 Jake Russ, Franklin
R-7 Sean Armstrong, G. Portland
R-8 Andrew Brewer, Alamo Heights
At-Large Samuel Benitez, North Shore
GIRLS BASKETBALL
R-1 Tyler Helms, Idalou
R-2 *Kenni Patton, Electra
R-3 Donna McCullough, Sachse
R-4 Steve Lee, Pebble Hills
R-5 Christina Jamerson, Dulles
R-6 Marcus Willis, La Vega
R-7 Ashley Moncivaiz, Harlingen
R-8 Christina Camacho, Judson
At-Large Brooke Brittain, Mansfield
BOYS CROSS COUNTRY
R-1 Jay McCook, Canadian
R-2 Glenn Griffin, Holliday
R-3 *Logan Kelly, Lovejoy
R-4 Alonzo Samaniego, Presidio
R-5 Kenneth Decuir, Paetow
R-6 Josh Sypert, Eustace
R-7 Efrain Ambriz, Harlingen
R-8 Kelly Thompson, Leander Rouse
GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY
R-1 Ray Baca, Canyon
R-2 Loy Triana, Burkburnet
R-3 *Susan Bailey, Highland Park
R-4 Corina Marrufo, Del Valle
R-5 Jim Darcey, Katy
R-6 Edward DeLaCruz, Waxahachie
R-7 Joey Rendon, Santa Gertrudis
R-8 Rachel Freeman, SA Reagan
At-Large Karmen Sanders, Taylor
FOOTBALL
6-Man Josh Stanaland, Jayton
R-1 Jason Richards, Frenship Memorial
R-2 Sterling Doty, Stephenville
R-3 *Joe Castillo, Little Elm
R-4 Ruben Rodriguez, Eastlake
R-5 Rick LaFavers, Ridge Point
R-6 Clint Fuller, Kilgore
R-7 Brent Davis, G. Portland
R-8 Alan Haire, Jarrell
BOYS GOLF
R-1 Justin Wilborn, Lub. Cooper
R-2 Jason Hodges, Stephenville
R-3 Charlie Means, Denison
R-4 Paul Bustamante, Pebble Hills
R-5 *Mike Martin, Memorial
R-6 Brant Bennett, Midlothian Heritage
R-7 Celso Gonzalez, McAllen Mem.
R-8 Glenn Phair, New Braunfels
At-Large Paige Martin, Southlake
GIRLS GOLF
R-1 OPEN
R-2 Chris Sims, Abilene Cooper
R-3 Kerry Gabel, FM Marcus
R-4 Shawn Trousdale, Eastwood
R-5 *Angela Chancellor, Kingwood Park
R-6 Joel Davenport, Ennis
R-7 Jennifer Ruiz, McAllen
R-8 Patrick Pruitt, Westlake
At-Large Brent McCuiston, Alamo Heights
BOYS SOCCER
R-1 Hugo Aguillon, West Plains
R-2 Justin Rhodes, Stephenville
R-3 Pablo Regalado, Kemp
R-4 OPEN
R-5 *Ben Powell, Bellville
R-6 OPEN
R-7 Julian Robles, Harl. South
R-8 David Rogers, SA Lee
At-Large Jason Meekins, Katy Jordan
GIRLS SOCCER
R-1 Alistair Caldwell, Lub. Coronado
R-2 Carl Wiersema, WF Rider
R-3 Kelly Thompson, Allen
R-4 OPEN
R-5 *Evelyn Torres, Ridge Point
R-6 Gerald Slovacek, Midlo. Heritage
R-7 OPEN
R-8 Bailee Perrine, Dripping Springs
At-Large Aaron McGough, Highland Park
SOFTBALL
R-1 Styler Haddock, Canyon
R-2 Cynthia Herrera, Stamford
R-3 *Kathy Schoettle, Allen
R-4 Lindsie Swarb, Monahans
R-5 Katie Roberts, Brenham
R-6 Same Weeks, Troup
R-7 Audra Troutman, Sinton
R-8 Jennifer Fox, Alamo Heights
TENNIS
R-1 Darby Norman, Canyon Randall
R-2 *Carrie Castleberry, Vernon
R-3 Sylvia Sims, Frisco Heritage
R-4 OPEN
R-5 Daniel Marshall, A&M Consol.
R-6 OPEN
R-7 Eddie Marquez, Roma
R-8 Andrew Duong, Comal Canyon
At-Large David DeLeon, Canyon
BOYS TRACK & FIELD
R-1 Jon Murphy, Stratford
R-2 Andy Howard, Goldthwaite
R-3 *Janson Head, Denton Ryan
R-4 Brien Burchett, Greenwood
R-5 Jason Haddock, Clements
R-6 Josh Rankin, Longview
R-7 Bob Bechtold, McAllen
R-8 OPEN
GIRLS TRACK & FIELD
R-1 Crista Jones, Lub. Monterey
R-2 *Jeremiah Butchee, Stephenville
R-3 Ashley Broom, Sunnyvale
R-4 Robert Ontiveroz, Monahans
R-5 David Pollack, Seven Lakes
R-6 Jordan Johnson, Midway
R-7 Stacy Zamzow, Goliad
R-8 Jen McHugh, SA Reagan
VOLLEYBALL
R-1 Kelly Lozada, Lubbock Monterey
R-2 Shay Douglas, Stephenville
R-3 Jennifer Chandler, Northwest
R-4 Heather Archibald, Wink
R-5 Jenny Adcock, Stratford
R-6 Arden Johnson, Troup
R-7 Jess Odem, Goliad
R-8 *Rachel Torvik, SA Reagan
At-Large Kayla Allen, Vista Ridge
BOYS WRESTLING
R-1 Dalton Clear, Canyon
R-2 OPEN
R-3 *Kyle Stevens, Anna
R-4 Oscar Norez, EP Montwood
R-5 Vinnie Lowe, Katy
R-6 Collin Stroner, Midlothian Heritage
R-7 Donald "Ed" Arvin, CC Veterans Memorial
R-8 David Burdick, Vista Ridge
GIRLS WRESTLING
R-1 *Tyler Frausto, Canyon
R-2 OPEN
R-3 Tiffany Mangini, Flower Mound
R-4 Stephen Scott, EP Franklin
R-5 Nicholas Johnson, Cy-Woods
R-6 OPEN
R-7 Ronald Pratt, Rio Grande City
R-8 Garvin Smith, San Marcos
*DENOTES CHAIR
G I S
FROM THE PRESIDENT
When May comes around, we know the school year is ending. Spring sports are ending; and we are close to naming new state champions in track, baseball, softball, tennis, and golf. Congratulations to those coaches and programs that were able to achieve the ultimate prize. I hope that in between the semester ending and summer strength and conditioning that you can get some needed vacation time with your family and loved ones. This time of year is also tough as we watch our seniors walk across the stage of graduation and pray that things go well for them as they enter into adulthood.
New memberships for THSCA begins on July 1st. Make sure you take the time to renew your membership and register for Coaching School if you have yet to do so. Time is running out for the $85 rate for Coaching School. To receive the $85 rate, you must be registered by June 1st, We are looking forward to Coaching School returning to San Antonio this summer. The dates for Coaching School are July 20th - 22nd. We are anticipating our best Coaching School yet, as we have more speakers and on-field demonstrations than ever before, and our Texas Universities have committed multiple speakers to our football lectures. If you have a chance, we highly encourage you to attend the Hall of Honor Banquet on Saturday night (July 19th). This year we will induct Don Brooks, Brad Davis, Jeff Traylor, Steve Warren, and Rodney Webb into the Hall of Honor. It is a great event to experience as we honor the induction of these legendary Texas high school coaches.
This has been an amazing year for our Association, and our continued work is needed. This will be my last letter, and it has been an honor and a privilege to represent the THSCA as your President. It is still very surreal that the members of the greatest association of the greatest profession elected me to represent them. Because of that I am extremely humbled, and very grateful to all the GREAT coaches that came before me and never had such an opportunity. I have to say that the greatest part of this position has been the opportunity to meet so many coaches from different regions across the state. At the General Meeting at Coaching School this summer, we will choose between Brent Davis, Carlos Lynn, or James Williams and select a new President-Elect. I really cannot think of three more deserving coaches to represent us. I look forward to seeing you in San Antonio this summer.
John Snelson, THSCA President
The future of flag f tba INCLUDES the GIRLS!
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As the popularity of high school girls flag football grows in the United States, the Dallas Cowboys are working with school communities across Texas to provide girls an opportunity to use the game of flag football as a fun and exciting way to be healthy, to learn values taught through sport, and potentially further their education with scholarships to collegiate intitutions now playing flag football at a higher level. For more information or to discuss partnering with the Dallas Cowboys on this effort, contact YouthFootball@DallasCowboys.net.
NOW HEAR THIS
Obituary
COACH GERALD MACK "JERRY" BENNETT
Gerald Mack Bennett (Jerry) was born in Marshall, Texas, on July 14, 1950, to Jim Wilson and Finna Faye (McGee) Bennett; and went home to be with his Lord and Savior on April 28, 2025, at his home in Jefferson surrounded by his loving family.
Jerry graduated from Marshall High School in 1968. He attended Kilgore Junior College and then Louisianna Tech where he graduated in 1976 with a Bachelors in Education. After graduation, he started his career as a Teacher/ Coach for the next 35 plus years. His first job was in Marshall, Texas as an assistant coach. After that he coached in Queen City, Texas as Defensive Coordinator for two years. His first head coaching job was for the Jefferson Bulldogs starting in 1982. His proudest accomplishment was in 1986 when the Bulldogs won the 3A State Championship with an undefeated record of 16-0. Jerry was named Cypress Valley Coach of the Year, District 16-AAA Coach of the Year and High School Coach of the Year by the Texas Sportswriter’s Association after that season. In 2002, Jerry went to coach at SMU in Dallas for this brother Phil. He coached running backs and inside receivers at SMU until 2007. In 2008, he came back to East Texas to Linden Kildare as Head Coach and was there until 2010. In 2011, Jerry came back to Jefferson to coach the Bulldogs one more time to end out his career. He retired in 2013.
When Jerry came to Jefferson in 1982, he met his future wife, Tammy Lynn Moore. They were married on April 16, 1983. They were married for 42 years.
In 1987, Jerry was named Jefferson Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the year. In 2015 he was inducted into the Northeast Texas Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Coach Bennett, as he was lovingly referred to by all, has had an immense impact on countless young men that he coached throughout the years. He taught many of his players not only about the X’s and O’s, but he taught important life lessons that were needed to have a successful future.
Obituary
COACH DENNIS MICHAEL "MIKE" WILLIAMSON
Dennis Michael (Mike) Williamson, 76, of Bandera, Texas, passed away on March 15, 2025 surrounded by his family after a brief battle with cancer.
Mike was born on April 30, 1948, in Crystal City, Texas, the son of George Lloyd Williamson and Vera Mae Williamson ( née Wood).
Mike graduated from Crystal City High School in 1966 after being a stand-out player on the field and track all four years. He then went on to play football first at the University of Houston and then Texas A&I in Kingsville. At Texas A&I, Mike played fullback on the 1969 NAIA National Championship team.
After graduating from Texas A&I, Mike began a coaching career of over 30 years in South Texas; with stops at Orange Grove, Pearsall, El Dorado, Devine, Carrizo Springs, Laredo, Uvalde, and Bandera.
Early in his coaching career, Mike was stricken with Guillain-Barré syndrome and overcame months of near complete paralysis to fully recover. Throughout the rest of his life, he would visit those afflicted with Guillain-Barré to show them that recovery is possible.
While coaching in Devine, Mike met Sherrie Ann Bradley. The two were married on December 19, 1980 and had three children – John Walker, Joy Taylor, and Kathryn Ann.
Throughout his coaching career, Mike had an unwavering passion for helping his players excel—both on the field and in life. Beyond his role as a coach, he was a trusted mentor and friend to countless coaches within the Texas high school football community. A proven winner, he amassed over 100 victories as a head coach, guiding his teams to deep playoff runs, including a remarkable 2002 3A Division II State Championship with Bandera.
After retiring from education in the spring of 2003, he pursued opportunities that kept him connected to Texas high school sports, allowing him to remain close to the coaching community and the many friendships he had built over the years.
In his later years, he found immense joy in spending time with his beloved grandchildren, never missing an opportunity to cheer them on at their various events. Watching them grow and sharing in their accomplishments was one of his greatest pleasures.
Mike is survived by his wife; his children; his daughter-in-law, Erica Williamson; his son-in-law, Derek Smith; his brother, George Ronald Williamson; and his grandchildren, John Wesley Williamson, Michael Isaiah Williamson, Avery Mae Smith, June Harper Smith, and Justin Anthony Blakley.
To report a coach that is Retiring or On the Move to a new HEAD Coaching Job, (FOR ANY SPORT), login to your THSCA Member Portal and find "Report a Coach On the Move" under the Member Services tab.
COACHES RETIRING >>>
Robert Drake retiring as Head Men’s Track and Asst. Football coach at Carroll Senior High.
Kenneth Robinson retiring as DC/Head Powerlifting/Asst. Track at Columbus.
Doug Warren, who led Wimberley for twelve wildly successful seasons announces his retirement on April 22. He posted a 119-47 record and led Wimberley to two state title game appearances. He is retiring after 36 years.
Aaron Wollam is retiring after 33 years in the coaching profession. With 3 stops at Nixon-Smiley, Tidehaven, and the last 25 at Palacios. He has amassed 489 wins in 30 years as head coach.
<<< COACHES ON THE MOVE
Randy Badillo from OC at South San to HFC at SA Jefferson.
Andrew Baker from Asst Boys Basketball at Mesquite to Head Basketball at Aledo.
Matthew Bass from DC at Shadow Creek to AD/HFC at Alvin.
Omasha Brantley from OC at Clear Springs to HFC at Galveston Ball.
Heath Clawson from HFC at Elgin to AD/HFC at Woodville.
Leslie Coltrain from Head Volleyball at La Grange to Head Volleyball at China Spring.
Mark DelPercio former HC at Orange Grove to HFC at Ben Bolt.
Byron Eaton promoted from Asst. to HFC at Dallas Gateway.
Charles Foster promoted from DC to HFC at Waco University.
Jesse Garcia promoted from OC to HFC at Three Rivers.
Jason Garrett from HFC at Dallas Roosevelt to HFC at Dallas Skyline.
Bobby Gaytan from OC at Harlingen South to HFC at Santa Maria.
Ruben Guerrero from DC at Sunray to AD/HFC at White Deer.
Jason Haddock from DC at Clements to HFC at Wharton.
DJ Howell from DC at Sterling City to AD/HFC at Fort Stockton.
Keylon Kincade from OC at Chisolm Trail to HFC at Dallas Wilson.
Chris Lane from OC at Alief Hastings to HFC at Rosenberg Lamar Consolidated.
Donald Lawrence from HFC at Clear Lake to HFC at Cy-Park.
Patrick Longstreet promoted from HFC at South Houston to Pasadena ISD AD.
Robby May promoted from interim to HFC at Cross Roads.
David McHugh from OC at Ingleside to HFC at Bishop.
Cameron Murrah from OC at Stockdale to HFC at Louise.
Liz Oyervides from Asst. at Bridgeland to Campus CoCoord./Head Girls Basketball at Dulles.
Daniel Purvis from HFC at Cross Plains to AD/HFC at Plains.
Charlie Roten former HC at Rogers to HFC at Whitewright.
Jared Sanderson promoted from DC to HFC at Cross Plains.
Aaron Wampler from HC at Clarendon to HFC at Amarillo River Road.
Kyle Wheeler promoted from OC to HFC at Anson.
Brennan Whitaker from OC at Birdville to HFC at De Leon.
We are always on the hunt for article content for publication in Texas Coach! Article submissions can be sport-specific skills and techniques, or be related to program administration, team culture, building relationships with athletes, parents, administrators, etc. Maybe a top 10 list you want to create, or a “Do’s and Don’ts guide?” We publish articles from both members and non-members... so we encourage you to reach out to all of the different sport coaches on your campus, your athletic administration, spouses, student-athletes, school administrators, booster club presidents, etc. and ask them to share their knowledge and wisdom with our Texas coaching family! Please email all article submissions to beckyadams@thsca.com –Word Document format is preferred, and 3-4 pages would be ideal length.
Coaches
ONE APP FOR STATS, MAXES, AND RECRUITING
KB3 SPORTS APP has allowed us to streamline our stats & maxes for inseason & offseason as well as given us the ability to promote our players across the country.
James Clancy HFC, Klein Cain HS
ACCURATE INFORMATION
MAXES & MEASURABLES can be entered by a player or coach and will be added to a player’s profile page.
TEAM PROFILE PAGE
Your teams’ profile page is publicly accessible to parents, players, media and recruiters with links to each player’s profile page.
PLAYER TRACKING
Download a Team Stat File to keep track of team stats by player or team totals.
Download a Game Summary File to view play-by-play game recap.
Automatically generate a Player Stat File to view per game and cumulative player stats as well as in-season and off-season maxes and measurables.
RECRUITING
College coaches can access your players test scores, stats, maxes & measurables.
College Coaches can DM with coaches and players via our IN-APP MESSAGING.
Get Started! Download the free app for Android or Apple, join now!
wit wisdom&
ADAPTABILITY
“It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent. It is the one that is most adaptable to change.”
Charles Darwin
OPTIMISM
"An adaptive mind has better learning capability.”
Pearl Zhu
“Forget about what you might have lost but instead focus on what you have room to gain.”
Lindsey Rietzsch
“Successful people maintain a positive focus in life no matter what is going on around them. They stay focused on their past successes rather than their past failures, and on the next action steps they need to take to get them closer to the fulfillment of their goals rather than all the other distractions that life presents to them.”
Jack Canfield
"Enjoying success requires the ability to adapt. Only by being open to change will you have a true opportunity to get the most from your talent.”
Nolan Ryan
"The most successful people are those who accept and adapt to constant change. This adaptability requires a degree of flexibility and humility most people can’t manage."
Paul Lutus
“Work hard for what you want because it won't come to you without a fight. You have to be strong and courageous and know that you can do anything you put your mind to. If somebody puts you down or criticizes you, just keep on believing in yourself and turn it into something positive.”
Leah LaBelle
COMPARISON
"Comparison is the thief of joy.”
Teddy Roosevelt
“When you compare yourself with others, you start labeling yourself and others as well. Avoid this practice if you want to have high self-esteem.”
Dr. Prem Jagyasi
“Other people’s lives seem better than yours because you’re comparing their director’s cuts with your behind the scenes.”
Evan Rauch
“After so many years struggling to keep up with you, I finally realized we’re not even running the same race.”
Scott Stabile
PRESENTING SPONSOR OF THE COACH OF THE WEEK
CANE’S FOR THE WIN
WESTWOOD HIGH SCHOOL
ABILENE CHRISTIAN ABILENE, TX
Booking for the THSCA housing block and updates on hotel availability and parking are only accessible on our website at:
www.thsca.com/hotels
Online booking will require a credit card in order to secure the room; however, the card will not be charged until you check-in or 72 hours before arrival. THE DEADLINE FOR BOOKING AT THE DISCOUNTED RATE WILL BE JULY 1ST.
CANCELLATION POLICY:
Cancellations made after June 1, 2025, and 72 hours prior to arrival date will be charged a $50.00 cancellation fee per room. Continue to use Orchid.Events for all changes and cancellations through July 1, 2025. After July 1, 2025, cancellations must be directed to your assigned hotel at least 72 hours prior to arrival or a one night’s room and tax charge will be assessed by the hotel.
Please note the following fee is not included in room rates: 1.25% Tourism Public Improvement District (PID) Fee. Room rates and PID fees are subject to 16.75% Hotel Tax per Night. (Subject to change)
Grand Hyatt and Hyatt Regency have additional state cost recovery fees that will be added to the rate. *Additional fees may apply for 3rd or 4th person in room: If a rollaway bed is required.*
Orchid.Events is the ONLY THSCA designated housing provider for the 2025 THSCA Convention & Coaching School. Beware of other companies misrepresenting themselves as affiliated with THSCA.
TENTATIVE OUTLINE OF EVENTS FOR 2025 COACHING SCHOOL AND CONVENTION...
SATURDAY, JULY 19
8:30 AM New Board Member Indoctrination
1:00 PM THSCA Board Meeting
7:00 PM Hall of Honor Banquet
HBGCC Stars at Night Ballroom
SUNDAY, JULY 20
Registration Open
THSCA Office & Help Desk
7:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Exhibits Open
THSCA Career Center
10:00 AM FULL LINE-UP OF LECTURES
11:00 AM FULL LINE-UP OF LECTURES
12:00 PM FULL LINE-UP OF LECTURES
1:00 PM FULL LINE-UP OF LECTURES
2:00 PM FULL LINE-UP OF LECTURES
3:00 PM FULL LINE-UP OF LECTURES
4:00 - 5:15 PM - NCAA FBS Div. I Head Football Coaches Panel - Leadership in Women's Coaching Panel - Athletic Trainer's Networking Event
5:30 - 6:30 PM Various Networking Opportunities
7:30 AM - 4:30 PM
MONDAY, JULY 21
Registration Open THSCA Office & Help Desk
Exhibits Open
THSCA Career Center
9:00 AM FULL LINE-UP OF LECTURES
10:00 AM FULL LINE-UP OF LECTURES
11:00 AM FULL LINE-UP OF LECTURES
12:00 PM FULL LINE-UP OF LECTURES 1:00 PM FULL LINE-UP OF LECTURES 2:00 PM FULL LINE-UP OF LECTURES
3:45 - 5:00 PM THSCA REGIONAL MEETINGS
5:15 - 6:15 PM Various Networking Opportunites
7:30 AM - 12:00 PM
TUESDAY, JULY 24
THSCA Office & Help Desk
Exhibits Open
THSCA Career Center
9:00 AM FULL LINE-UP OF LECTURES 10:00 AM FULL LINE-UP OF LECTURES 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM THSCA GENERAL MEETING
PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE
WHAT THE POLICY COVERS:
COVERAGE A - LIABILITY INSURANCE
Up to $2,000,000 per insured per occurrence/$ 3,000,000 per occurrence, plus the cost of defense, investigation and legal fees
•Applies in the event a member is alleged to have caused injury or damage to others while performing his/her professional duties
•Errors and omissions insurance for claims for damages arising out of a member’s duties as a professional educator, including all defense cost
Note: The duty of the insurer to defend extends even to groundless, false and frivolous suits and accusations.
COVERAGE B - REIMBURSEMENT OF ATTORNEY FEES
Up to $10,000 per insured per occurrence
•The policy provides reimbursement of attorney fees in a broad range of situations not included under Coverage A. This includes allegations of criminal and/or sexual misconduct and employment related actions
other professional rights and duties.
or resignation, the matter in dispute must be resolved in favor of the member to qualify for the full reimbursement of $10,000. However, $2,000 of this amount is available for initial consultation and research, whether or not the member prevails, to determine if there exists a reasonable chance of the case being resolved in the member’s favor.
COVERAGE C - BAIL BONDS
Up to $2,000 premium on bail bonds
WHAT THE POLICY PAYS:
COVERAGE A: Up to $2,000,000 per insured per ccurrence/$3,000,000 per occurrence, plus the cost of defense, investigation and legal fees.
COVERAGE B: Up to $10,000 per claim per Insured. Coverage for criminal proceedings and /or sexual misconduct limited to $10,000 aggregate per policy term.
COVERAGE C: Up to $2,000 premium on bail bonds.
COVERAGE FEATURES:
Criminal/Sexual Misconduct Allegations
The policy provides reimbursement of attorney fees up to $10,000 under Coverage B if the educator is acting in the scope of his/her duties.
Corporal Punishment
Corporal punishment is covered under Coverage A (Liability) if administered according to the rules of the jurisdiction in which the school is located.
Outside Activity
As long as the educator is within the scope of his/her professional duties, the policy covers liability for injury to students and others while the educator is conducting visits to industrial and commercial establishments, entertainment automobile, watercraft, & aircraft exclusions
Coverage B
Reimbursement of Attorney Fees - Such reimbursement as is afforded the professional rights and duties is assured under the policy and is not contingent on the approval of a board or review committee, as might be the case where the only available assistance is from a defense fund.
The John A. Barclay Agency
AM I ELIGIBLE FOR COVERAGE & HOW DO I PURCHASE?
The Texas High School Coaches Association offers a Coaches Professional Liability Insurance option to eligible members with coverage beginning July 1, 2025. The THSCA has chosen the John A. Barclay Agency, Inc. to provide this coverage to our members. This plan was devised to offer liability insurance and legal assistance to THSCA members. In order to be eligible for this coverage you must meet the following criteria:
•
• Your THSCA Membership must be current for the school year in which the coverage is effective – 7/1/25 - 6/30/26
•PROFESSIONAL, AFFLIATE and LIFE members are eligible only if they meet the criteria above. This insurance is not available to STUDENT or RETIRED members.
If you choose to purchase this insurance coverage and do not meet the criteria for eligibility, this coverage will not be valid. This coverage will be in effect July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026. Insurance purchased after July 1, 2025 will commence on the payment received date. This insurance coverage is not retroactive.
Payment should be made directly to the THSCA. The total 25/26 annual premium for the insurance coverage will be $65.00 per member.
Eligible members will be able to purchase the Coaches Professional Liability Insurance on the THSCA website, or by selecting to purchase the coverage on the THSCA membership application form and submitting it by fax, email or mail to the THSCA Office with payment
NOTE: In order to be eligible to purchase the coverage your membership must be current for the same year of policy coverage. (7/1/25-6/30/26) )
QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF
Doyouhavethefinancialabilitytodefendyourselfintheevent of claim?
THIS IS NOTA CERTIFIED COPY OF THE POLICY BUTA SUMMARY AND IS PROVIDED FOR REFERENCE ONLY. ALL COVERAGE PROVIDED UNDER THE TERMS OF THE POLICY IN THE EVENT OF A LOSS OR OCCURRENCE IS SUBJECT TO THE EXCLUSIONS AND CONDITIONS CONTAINED IN THE MASTER POLICY ON FILE WITH THE POLICYHOLDER, INCLUDING ALL AMENDMENTS, ENDORSEMENTS, AND ADDITIONS. QUESTIONS REGARDING SPECIFIC INSURANCE POLICY COVERAGE SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO: The John A. Barclay Agency, Inc. 512.323 6566
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Thursday, April 10, 2025
12:00 a.m. - Brooke and her parents arrive in Georgetown
11:00 a.m. - The Lady Raider soccer team kicks off their match against Wimberley at Birkelbach Field in Georgetown. Brooke scores the second goal of the game for the Lady Raiders that gives them a 2-1 lead.
12:45 p.m. - The game heads to overtime tied 2-2.
1:30 p.m. - The Lady Raiders win the UIL 4A Division 2 State Championship in soccer. The game went to penalty kicks and the Lady Raiders were able to pull it off 7-6. This is the first state championship for girls soccer in the school's history.
2:00 p.m. - Brooke gets on a private plane with her mom to head to Andrews.
4:10 p.m. - The plane lands in Andrews and Coach Tim McCune, Randall boys head track coach, and Coach Rebekah James, Randall girls head cross country coach, was waiting to drive her back to the track meet at the Mustang Bowl in Andrews.
5:10 p.m. - 3-4A/4-4A Area Track Meet 1600 meter run starts.
5:15 p.m. - Brooke ran her 1600 meter race in 5:14.3 and qualified second.
I have bragged a lot on this young lady as I am telling her story because it is incredible, and she deserves that credit; however, that is not the point of this article. The amount of people that it took to make this opportunity happen is unbelievable. To me, it starts with the track coaches and the girls soccer coach at Randall High School. Way too many times, I have heard coaches say that if a kid tries to do both sports at the same time, something has to suffer and they will be average at everything. These coaches refuse to buy into that lie and are all about their kids! If a student athlete wants to try to do multiple things, these coaches are willing to communicate and make a plan that they can agree on to make it happen. As coaches, we expect our athletes to give whatever it takes. In turn, we must take the same approach and do whatever it takes to create opportunities for our student athletes.
The next group of people that made this happen are the coaches/athletic administrators from opposing schools. On November 1, 2024, Brooke placed 3rd in the UIL State Cross Country Championships, so she is obviously a very talented runner. It would have been very easy for coaches/athletic administrators from the other schools to not agree to alter the meet schedule for Brooke to be able to compete because it would have given athletes from their schools the possibility of advancing to the regional track meet. They are in this business for kids and they are fighting for their kids. This is a very noble statement, and I agree that it is extremely important to be an advocate for the kids that we coach; however, this group of people chose to do what is right for all kids, even though it might not have been in their own personal best interest. When we take a step back and look at the big picture of this, 13 other schools unanimously chose to make an adjustment to the area meet schedule to give one student athlete an unbelievable opportunity to compete. The coaches and administrators from Andrews, Borger, Canyon, Dumas, Fort Stockton, Greenwood, Hereford, Monahans, Pampa, Pecos, Perryton, Seminole, and West Plains all deserve recognition for their work to make this day possible. These people are in it for kids…ALL KIDS!
Another group of people that did everything that they could to make this opportunity possible, are the parents and community members. With school funding and budget deficits like they currently are, there is no way that these things would be possible without their support. Phone calls were made to somebody that knows somebody else, that knows somebody else and they were willing to help make this day possible. Communities all across the state of Texas have people that are more than willing to help out and contribute to creating these once in a lifetime opportunities.
It takes sacrifice and compromise from all sides, but we are in this business for kids! Continue to advocate for, fight for, and promote your student athletes! They deserve every opportunity to be successful and if we, as coaches and athletic administrators, don’t give that to them, who will? Thank you all so much for your dedication, work, and time spent shaping these student athletes into awesome people by your actions, day in and day out.
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IMPORTANCE OF NETWORKING FOR A YOUNG COACH
BY RASHAD ANDERSON
EAST CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL - THSCA R.O.C.K., CLASS OF 2024
As a young coach, it’s common to feel uncertain about the professional landscape. You may know about the love of sports, the thrill of competition, or know a few coaches in your area. However, one key component that can help you reach new heights is networking. Building strong and meaningful professional relationships can open doors to new opportunities that can transform your career.
I've learned that in the professional world, it’s not who you know, but who knows you. Initially, I would attend coaching events primarily to catch up with old friends; without taking full advantage of the networking potential. That changed when I attended a leadership summit for the first time. I found myself surrounded by influential professionals I never expected to meet. From that moment on, I committed to introducing myself, meeting new people, and building connections. At subsequent events, like symposiums and coaching clinics, I continued to broaden my network and realized the immense value of these interactions.
Your professional netWORK will become your net WORTH. Don't hesitate to introduce yourself to people, no matter their title, and ask thoughtful questions. Approach every interaction with all intentions of building positive and genuine relationships. These connections can provide you with valuable guidance, career advice, and insight into the nuances of our profession. Establishing mentorships with experienced coaches provides the opportunity to learn from their successes and mistakes, gaining insights that can shape your own career path.
The coaching world, like many other industries, often relies on word-of-mouth recommendations and personal referrals when hiring new talent. Young coaches who actively network with professionals in the field increase their chances of learning about job opportunities that might not be widely advertised. Connecting with senior coaches, athletic directors, and industry leaders boosts your chances of being recommended for roles that go beyond just submitting a resume.
2025 meet your President-elect nominees...
Nominees will be voted on at the THSCA General Meeting on Tuesday, July 22nd AT 11:30 AM DURING Coaching School in san antonio, Texas.
BRENT DAVIS Gregory-Portland HS
Brent Davis has been coaching high school football in Texas for 38 years. Thirty of those years have been spent as an Athletic Director and Head Football Coach. Coach Davis has been at Gregory-Portland for four years. The Wildcats are 31-17 since Davis arrived, with his best year being 2021 when the Wildcats were 9-4, Regional Semi-Finalist, and Coach Davis was named All-South Texas Coach of the Year. Coach Davis’ career record is 227-120-1. Brent started his head coaching career at 2A Banquete, where he led the Bulldogs to their first playoff appearance in 23 years and was named All-South Texas Coach of the Year in 1996. He then went to 3A Sinton, where his team record was 43-9 in four years. The Pirates played in the State Championship in 2001, and Davis was again named All South Texas Coach of the Year. In 2002, Coach Davis took 5A The Colony, to the playoffs for the first time in five years. He then went to 4A Alice and led the Coyotes in 2008 to their first undefeated district championship in 23 years with a record of 12-1. In 2008, he was a member of the THSCA All-Star Selection Committee representing the South Class 4A. Prior to coming to Gregory-Portland Davis coached 12 years at San Angelo Central High School, where he is the all-time winningest Head Football Coach, with an overall record of 95-46. Coach Davis was selected All-West Texas Super Team Coach of the Year in 2011, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018. He was inducted into the Coastal Bend Coaches Association Hall of Honor in 2013. He served as a director on the Texas High School Coaches Association’s board of directors from 2014-2017; and was selected as a nominee for President-Elect of the THSCA in 2018, 2019, 2023, and 2024. Brent is currently on the THSCA Football Advisory Committee representing Region 7. Coach Davis also has 23 former assistant coaches that have gone on to be highly successful Athletic Director/Head Football Coaches around the state of Texas. His father, Bobby Davis, was a legendary coach at Frenship High School. When he retired, he ranked 21st in all time wins for Texas head coaches with 252 wins. Coach Davis played for his dad at Calallen in 1980 and at Frenship in 1981 and 1982. He then went on to play at Angelo State University from 1983-1985 and received his BS degree in 1987. He received his Master’s Degree in Education from Texas A&M University-Kingsville in 2000. Coach Davis has three grown children, Richard (34), Rileigh (31), and Allie (24).
CARLOS LYNN Crowley HS
Coach Carlos Lynn is in his 30th year of coaching. During his first three years, he served as a speech teacher and coach at Wilmer-Hutchins High School in Dallas, TX. He was the Offensive Coordinator during his last year there. He then moved on to Cedar Hill High School in 1998 and was the Defensive Line coach until 2003, when he was elevated to Defensive Coordinator. He served in that capacity until 2008. Coach Lynn served as head football coach at Arlington Seguin for nine years. Lynn has served six years as the Head Coach of the Cedar Hill Longhorns. He led the Longhorns to the 2020 6A Division 2 State Finals. Coach Lynn was also selected as Dave Campbell’s Texas High School Football 6A Coach of the Year in 2020. Coach Lynn is currently in his third year as Head Football Coach/Athletic Coordinator for the Crowley Eagles. Coach Lynn graduated 8th in class from Wilmer-Hutchins High School in 1991. He was the team captain of the 1990 4A State Championship team at Wilmer-Hutchins. He received a football scholarship to East Central University. While at East Central, he was a part of the 1992 Oklahoma Intercollegiate Conference Championship Team and the 1993 N.A.I.A. Division I National Championship team. Also in 2006, he coordinated the Cedar Hill
defense to a 16-0 record en route to the 5A Division II State Championship. Coach Lynn took a 1-9 program at Seguin and turned it into a well-respected playoff team. He has been involved in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for over 20 years. In 2013, he was awarded the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Huddle Leader of the Year. Coach Lynn has been a three-time finalist for the DFW Tom Landry Coach of the Year Award and has been twice nominated as the THSCA Region 3 Landry Award. Lynn is an Advisory Board Member of Sideline Power and is also a director of the I-20 Football Coaches Clinic.
Coach Lynn is an ordained deacon of the Church at the Inspiring Body of Christ Church (IBOC) in Dallas, TX, where the Pastor is Rickie Rush. He is also a motivational speaker and team builder. He is a devoted husband of 27 years to Antwanette Lynn. They have an 21-year-old son named Caleb, a two-time cancer survivor.
james williams thurgood marshall HS
Coach James Williams is in his 25th year of coaching and his 16th as the Athletic Coordinator / Head Football Coach at Marshall High School. When Coach Williams arrived in 2010, the Buffalos started from the ground up and focused on character, discipline, and hard work. In the first season, they finished 3-7, but made great strides towards building a championship program. In the 2012 season, the team finished 13-1 and Coach Williams was named 22-5A Coach of the Year, Vype Magazine Co-Coach of the Year, as well as a finalist for The Touchdown Club of Houston’s “Coach of the Year” Award. The Buffalos made the playoffs again in the 2013 and 2014 seasons, and Coach Williams was fortunate to coach in the Bayou Bowl All-Star Game. During the 2015 season, Coach Williams’ program won the Touchdown Club of Houston’s Sportsmanship 3rd Place award. In that year, Coach Williams became a board member for the Greater Houston Football Coaches Association (GHFCA) as well as a ‘Player of the Year’ committee member for the Touchdown Club of Houston. In 2016, the Buffalos made their next deep playoff run to the state quarterfinals, before finishing the season at 11-3. During this season, Coach Williams was awarded the Houston Texans Coach of the Week award and the ‘Be a Champion’ Leadership Award. While in the playoffs, his team was awarded the Dave Campbell’s Week 14 Army 5A School of the Week. After the 2016 football season, Coach Williams was recognized as the Houston Chronicle All-Greater Houston ‘Coach of the Year’. The 2017 season was another great season for the Buffalos, as they advanced, once again, to the State Quarterfinals and finished the season with a 10-3 record. The 2018 Marshall Football team finally broke through and made it to the State Championship vs Aledo. After the 2018 season, Coach Williams was once again recognized as the Houston Chronicle All-Greater Houston ‘Coach of the Year’. Also in that year, Coach Williams served as the President of the Greater Houston Football Coaches Association (GHFCA). In the 2019 season, the Buffs returned to the State Championship for the second year in a row, but came up just short again with a 3-point loss to Aledo. The Buffalos have made the State Quarterfinals 7 out of the last 10 seasons. In 2023-2024, Coach Williams served as the Senior Director for the Texas High School Coaches Association (THSCA) Region 5 Board of Directors.
Coach Williams came to Marshall from Hightower High School, where he was the Defensive Coordinator for two seasons. The first of those two years, the team played in the state championship against Allen High School. Before Hightower, Coach Williams spent two years at Manvel High School, where he was voted ‘Teacher of the Year’ in the 2007-2008 school year.
Coach Williams is originally from Chicago, Illinois. He has a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and a Master’s Degree in Educational Organization and Leadership from the University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign. While there, he also played football and ran track and field. Thereafter, Coach Williams joined the Illinois coaching staff as an Operations/Recruiting Assistant then as a Defensive Graduate assistant coach for two years. In 2001, he won the Big Ten Championship while on staff. James Williams is married to Dr. Alveda Williams (25 years), and they have two children, Janai (21) and James III (17).
REFLECTIONS FROM 50 YEARS IN U.I.L. ATHLETICS
BY DR. CHARLES BREITHAUPT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, UNIVERSITY INTERSCHOLASTIC LEAGUE
I started my career a junior high coach. I came in thinking I was the next coming of Vince Lombardi and John Wooden rolled into one. I learned quickly that having a whistle and a clipboard did not make me a coach. I didn’t know much, but I was fortunate to have Head Coach Bobby Goforth and Coach Rufus Williams who served as mentors and helped guide me to the right path. They had to spend a lot of time telling what I couldn’t or shouldn’t do. It was a good thing because I didn’t know a whole lot!
My passion for coaching has never ended. I still consider myself as a coach. I think about the challenges, I still draw X’s and O’s on napkins, move salt and pepper shakers around and get lost in that coaching fog from time to time. If you are a true coach, you know what I mean.
So why coach? I talked about these next three facets of coaching at THSCA Coaching School in 2024.
PURPOSE
You have heard it enough. Coaching isn’t about winning or losing. I saw hogwash to that thinking. It is indeed about winning. Winning young people to positive attitudes and character traits and developing them into the citizens we want them to become. Yes, it is okay to win. We know the purpose, but we must have a plan.
PLAN
As a junior high coach, I lined out my career goals. I was intent on getting a head coaching job and winning a state championship. I kept my goals private and reviewed and revised them frequently throughout my career.
When I did get my first head coaching job, I learned it was important to plan for the entire year and not just for the season. I knew I had to develop an offseason plan as well. I wanted a program, not just one successful year. During the season, planning the practices often took as much time as the actual practice. I developed a Master Plan that covered every aspect of the game, so that I would be certain not to neglect any situation that might occur in a game. I utilized the clock in every practice, so that players and coaches would realize that time is an important factor.
PEOPLE
Student-athletes are our greatest resource. They are on loan from parents to coaches for development and safe-keeping. I wanted to build up, not tear down. Coaches must be tough but should also understand that players are human-beings, and they are not little machines.
I expected much out of my players, but I believed they all knew that I loved them even if I did not tell them. As one coach said many years ago, “They don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”
The two most important words in the English language are YES and NO! Thes are words that many students don’t hear except from a coach.
“No! That is not good enough!”
“No! You can do better!”
“No! That is not acceptable here.”
Followed by...
“Yes! That’s great!”
“Yes! I like the way you did that!”
“Yes! Do that again!”
UIL. I was blessed to work for two great men, Dr. Bailey Marshall, Director of the UIL and Assistant Director and Athletic Director Dr. Bill Farney.
I really didn’t want to get out coaching. When it came down to making my decision, Dr. Farney said, “Look, you are making a big difference for students in your own 3A high school, but if you come to UIL you will have a chance to have a greater influence on thousands of students in the state.” That sealed the deal for me.
I missed coaching those first couple of years. When asked what it was that I missed so much about coaching I said, “Three things. Number one, the feeling of being needed: ‘Coach could I borrow a dollar for lunch; Coach could I get a ride home after practice, Coach, could you help me with a personal problem?’ Number two, I missed the locker room and coaches’ office. The informal times after practice when stories were told and legends were built. Only the players and coaches could be in that club. Thirdly, I missed the bus rides home after a big win. There is nothing better than riding on the euphoria of the celebration of winning after putting in the hard work. It is difficult to capture these feelings outside the coaching profession.
Having coached most of my career when only one team advanced to the playoffs, it was interesting to hear the logic and rationale from the UIL office regarding how an additional team was added to the playoff bracket in 1982; and then a third in 1990, and a fourth team in 2006. Reclassification and Realignment and the playoff structure continue to be a daily conversation with UIL staff.
After 33 years at the UIL, 14 as the Director of Athletics and the final 16 as Executive Director, I can look back with pride at some of the things we have accomplished. We have employed many amazing employees who have carried the banner for UIL. I am pleased to have been associated with of all of them.
While I would like to take credit for some of the major policies, procedures, or changes we have made to our championships, it is the UIL Legislative Council (the rule-making body) and the superintendents across the state who have been magnificent throughout my years in Austin.
It has been my great fortune to work with 17 different Chairpersons of the UIL Legislative Council. Starting with Dr. Curtis Culwell, who gaveled in the 100th anniversary of UIL in 2010, to our current Chairman, Dr. Roland Hernandez, there have been many of the best publicschool leaders in the country leading the UIL Legislative Council. Mark Henry, Greg Poole, Rick Reedy, Thomas Randle, Dan Troxell, JoAnn Bludau, Keith Bryant, Robin Ryan, Cody Moree, Shannon Holmes, Rusty Marshall, Kay Waggoner, Dan Troxell, Linda Henrie, Jim Waller, Johnny Pineda, and Curtis Rhodes have served with distinction as Chair of the Council.
The State Executive Committee has also done a sterling job in the adjudication of the rules passed by the Council Chairman. Mike Motheral has served with great distinction as chair of this committee for the past 23 years. Committee members such as James Colbert and Glen Teal bring perspective with wisdom and grace. Decisions from this committee have become increasingly difficult because of the changing demographics in our state.
The UIL Medical Advisory Committee has been a significant contributor to the health and safety of our students. They analyze current trends in sports medicine and review each protocol. Dr. Jessie DeLee has chaired this committee since 2001.
If I take any credit for the success of the League, it would be necessary for me to accept blame for those things that did not go as planned. I certainly have made some mistakes. But, rehashing them is a fruitless effort as I learned in coaching. I spent far too much time dwelling on the losses rather than enjoying the wins. I don’t want to end my career carrying any baggage!
We should all take pride in the State Football Championships that are being played at a common site. Having over 250,000 in attendance for 12 games was spectacular. This remains one of the largest attended sporting events in the country.
The THSCA helped create this incredible gathering of talent. State Football has become a virtual coaching clinic, and a place where coaches can learn from one another while socializing and watching the best football in the nation.
Also, during the past 16 years in athletics, we have ramped up emphasis on health and safety protocols for our participants, created a National Summit for Football, implemented a six-conference alignment, summer strength and conditioning programs for athletes, with coaches along with additional time during the school year out of season strength conditioning, Coaches Certification Program (CCP), Officials Compliance Program (OCP), fortified rules regarding recruiting and changing schools for athletic purposes, and new activities such as Water Polo. In a historic move, the UIL began crowning two state champions in each team sport in each conference in 2024-25.
In one of the greatest challenges in the history of UIL, we all worked together to recover from COVID. It took ingenuity, patience and great care to get back to normal. Without our coaches and school administrators, we would have struggled to restart. But the cooperation and dedication made the comeback special.
It is hard to describe what we do at UIL. Most people don’t know about us until Reclassification and Realignment is released every two years. Or there might be a case in which a school has to forfeit a game or even a state championship. What folks don’t know is that is noteworthy yet very rare.
UIL staff doesn’t enjoy a Monday through Friday 8-5 jobs. We are 24/7, 365, having more than a million contests each year. In every one of those contests, more than half of the contestants who did not win are a seeking an alternative result.
When a staff member gets a call after 10 pm, it is usually not one congratulating us on a great state tournament! On the other end of the call is someone with a concern, a complaint, or an allegation. Or it could just be an innocent question about a rule or regulation. The best way to describe what we do is that we are generally in the mode of conflict resolution. We are tasked with more than making policies or rules, we are called on to unravel sticky and often complex problems
Yes, I am proud that we can boast we are the biggest and the best in the nation because of the strength of our coaches’ associations. The nearly 28,000 members of THSCA have a great influence politically and strategically ,and their mission and goal to help coaches help kids is unique and highly successful.
Executive Director Joe Martin has been a dynamic leader and a strong force in the phenomenal growth of the Association. He has overseen the expansion of the Coaching School & Convention and thus expanded membership. Also, the ROCK Mentoring Program, the creation of 23 Sport Advisory Committees, Advisory Committees, the Texas Way (Sportsmanship), the annual Leadership Summit & Future Coaches of Texas, Appreciation Initiatives, the Coaches Call Podcast, are just a few of major opportunities Coach Martin has instituted with his board and staff.
Last, but not least, is his influence with the state legislature. He keeps a keen eye out for bills that would not benefit coaches or kids, or the UIL for that matter. This is a critical piece of work put forth by the THSCA.
His vision and passion for coaches has led the THSCA to swiftly respond to the needs and desires of coaches. Most important to me is that he is a friend.
Assistant Executive Director Glenn West and the rest of the THSCA team, including Brian Polk and Libby Pacheco, are terrific leaders; and the organization is in a great position for years to come.
I have had the great pleasure to work with former leaders of the THSCA who are truly legends of the game. Coach Eddie Joseph, Coach D.W. Rutledge and my good friend and colleague, the late Eddie Wolski, are just a few of the men who have help make the THSCA such a sterling and dynamic organization.
The UIL works with 12 separate athletic associations, representing different sports. The Texas High School Athletic Directors Association stands tall in their space providing quality work for their membership. Executive Director Rusty Dowling has turned a small association of ADs into a great and highly influential organization. They
SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2025 THSCA
The THSCA annually awards 10 - $2,000 scholarships, as well as 1 - $2,500 Eddie Joseph Memorial Scholarship and 1 - $2,005 Fisher Woodchick Memorial Scholarship to graduating seniors that are the child of a member in good standing of the THSCA.
Ansley Rae Cassell
Edgewood HS
child of thsca member
Michael Cassell
Jaxon Moffatt
Van HS
child of thsca member
Jared Moffatt
Keltyn Raymond
Glen Rose HS
child of thsca member
Sandy Langford
Eddie Joseph Memorial Scholarship Winner
Ansley Gates
Falls City HS
child of thsca member
Will Gates
Willard Joiner III
J. Frank Dobie HS
child of thsca member
Will Joiner, Jr.
David Klander
West HS
child of thsca member
Charlie Klander
fisher woodchick Memorial Scholarship Winner
Trent Odom
Katy Paetow HS
child of thsca member
Clayton Odom
Rylan Ross
Whitewright HS
child of thsca member
rodney ross
Jacob Plotts
Groveton HS
child of thsca member
Melissa Plotts
Ty Trcka Palacios HS
child of thsca member
Donald Trcka
Madison Purvis
Corrigan-camden HS
child of thsca member
John Bradley Purvis
Hayes Weyman
Wall HS
child of thsca member
Steven Weyman
CULTURE DRIVERS
By: Chuck Griffin Athletic Coordinator/Head Football Coach - Georgetown HS
What drives your culture? We talk about that word a great deal; but what is it, and what drives it? In 2024, the Georgetown Eagles had a special season. The success came despite dramatic staff changes in the spring, and a heartbreaking tragedy during the season. The players and program demonstrated resilience and strength of character as we went onto a 49-2-1 season at the high school, with our varsity finishing 10-2 as District Champions for the second
time in three years. This doesn’t happen by accident. There must be a plan and a set of beliefs that drive your players, your coaches, and your parents. When change or tragedy occur, these beliefs will drive your expectations and in turn, drive your actions.
Offseason Planning
As a staff, we begin each year with a retreat. We head off for a few nights on a long weekend in January, and this has proved to be one of the most beneficial exercises for our staff. We plan everything all the way through our first game. We talk specifically about every player in the program and try to personnel our next three years of our varsity football team; and we also figure out what we want to study as a staff in the spring. We left our retreat in January of 2024 with a general consensus
on the staff: that this was the best staff we had ever been on. Our coaches worked hard, were great at their respective roles, and we had an outstanding camaraderie – then sudden change hit.
Within just a few weeks of that retreat, both our OC and DC landed their first head coaching job. I was extremely proud of those guys, but it was a huge hit for our staff. Together they had 14 years of Eagle Football experience and had worked for not only me, but also our previous head football coach. They had a huge part in developing our culture over the last decade. As these two coaches began to work on their respective staffs, we would ultimately lose four more coaches to coordinator positions. Each one of those guys stepped out into a new role that was in a positive direction for their career; but man, it was tough on Eagle Football. Thankfully, with the support of a great administration team, we were able to hire two current head coaches, two current coordinators, and two young coaches to our staff. The challenge would be getting all of these new faces and new schemes integrated into our culture and to keep moving forward.
Teaching Our Culture
Eagle Football has a set of long-held beliefs about our program that drives the expectations of our coaches, our players, and our parents; and results in practices that are shared by the group. We call this our GTDNA, our GeorgeTown DNA. These beliefs are the blueprint to who we are, and have had a great deal to do with the success of our program over the last several years.
One of the first things we do as we start each off-season is our “Champions Notebook”. Each year, our coaches write and develop a lesson on one of the key principles in our GTDNA. We compile this into a notebook for our players. Once a week, one of our coaches teaches this lesson before our workout in the morning; we call this our “Book-Talk”, and we follow up with a group discussion about this topic the following day at breakfast after we workout. Our Champions Notebook has proved to be a vital piece of teaching our beliefs, our value system, and getting everyone to believe in who we are.
Our parents are also included. SportsYou has
been a game changer when it comes to parent communication. Each week, I use it to send the parents a message of where our program is and where we are going. In addition, I release a message on the day of the book-talk to help drive some dinner table conversions over the principle we are discussing. If you have been coaching for any length of time, then you know we can lose a player at the dinner table. So our goal is to help our parents drive our beliefs into a positive direction.
Developing our culture also includes developing our coaches. Five years ago, we started bringing in someone from the outside to teach and lead our coaches through a book study. I wrote an article for THSCA on this in March of 2023. We bring in someone from the community who is a stakeholder in Eagle Football being successful, but does not have any real connection to our program. He has kids in our school, but not in football. He has led many organizations at a high level and wants to see that for our community. We don’t talk about football at all. It is about our organization and how we can improve it and how we can each personally improve as a leader and coach. It is really a masters-level psychology class. This exercise has proved to be invaluable for our staff. We, as a staff, get to study what we preach to our kids. It is just another layer of our culture.
When Tragedy Strikes
We had a great start to our season. All five teams won the first three weeks, we were learning our new schemes and our coaches were adjusting to their new roles. After all of the turnover, we started with six new coaches and eight guys in new sports. Things were rolling, and then tragedy struck. One of our young players was severely injured in an
THE NEWEST MAJOR SPORT IN TEXAS: WRESTLING CHARLINE HAGEMASTER
BUDA JOHNSON HIGH
As I reflect on the flourishing phenomenon of wrestling in Texas high schools, especially girls' wrestling, I can't help but feel a sense of pride and excitement. The momentum we're witnessing is remarkable! For the second consecutive year, boys' wrestling participation has surged by 12.5%, but what’s even more astonishing is the 28.5% increase in girls' wrestling. This growth clearly indicates a newfound passion among young athletes.
To truly understand why wrestling programs are flourishing, one must delve deeper than just the impressive statistics. It’s essential to examine the stories and efforts behind these numbers. The success we're experiencing in Texas is rooted in the dedication and resilience of brave girls who stepped onto the mat years ago. They faced skepticism and
SCHOOL
challenged the norms of a male-dominated sport, paving the way for future generations. Now, they’ve returned as coaches—women with a mission to inspire young wrestlers.
At Johnson High School in Buda, Texas, my journey as the Head Wrestling Coach for both boys and girls began just as the program was struggling to find its footing. When I took over, we had a modest roster of a small handful of kids. However, a little over a year later, I’m proud to say our team has flourished to over 80 participants. We achieved incredible milestones in our first year, including winning a Girls District Championship, producing three state qualifiers, and even claiming a 3rd place medalist at the Texas State Championships.
What sparked this success? I believe it was my approach to coaching. I genuinely care about the sport, and I wanted my athletes to feel that passion too. I’ve always felt that if I was enthusiastic and dedicated, my wrestlers will be as well. It’s crucial for these kids, especially the girls, to feel challenged and supported. Fortunately, Texas is home to some incredibly tough athletes who simply want the chance to showcase their skills.
When I asked my team about the key to our recruitment success, Team Captain Cohen Beacom remarked, “Winning is contagious.” I focus on teaching moves in a clear, effective manner that not only leads to victories, but also makes wrestling
fun. Cohen also highlighted a significant aspect of our atmosphere: despite my strictness, I don’t resort to yelling. I believe in fostering a respectful environment where athletes can thrive without the pressure of being yelled at. Instead, we incorporate games and fun into our practices, making it a welcoming experience. Taryn Beacom pointed out that the improved coaching and rigorous workouts have made us all stronger and more prepared.
Overall, I’m grateful to lead a program that is making waves in Buda. My collegiate wrestling background helps me connect with my athletes, and I’m prioritizing an approach that moves away from traditional coaching methods towards one that emphasizes respect and enjoyment.
The success of the Jaguar Wrestling team can serve as a blueprint for other schools. Here are a few insights I'd like to share:
1. The right coach matters! Quality coaching is essential, and it's crucial that we stop filling wrestling positions with unqualified coaches from other sports.
2. There’s a palpable hunger for wrestling in Texas; we must invest in the facilities and resources necessary to support our athletes.
3. Wrestling is now a significant sport in Texas, and it’s here to stay.
In conclusion, wrestling has firmly established its place in Texas. Universities are recognizing the talent that our young wrestlers possess, and it's imperative that we have knowledgeable coaches to provide them with opportunities for college scholarships and a brighter future. I’m excited about the future and look forward to continuing to nurture the sport I love.
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Abilene HS, Softball
Alamo Heights HS, Football
Arlington Bowie HS, Boys Basketball
Bellville HS, Football
Bellville HS, Volleyball
Bellville HS, Boys Soccer
Breckenridge HS, Softball
Burleson HS, Girls Soccer
Byron Nelson HS, Girls Basketball
Chisholm Trail HS, Footballl
Cibolo Steele HS, Baseball
Clear Falls HS, Football
Colleyville Heritage HS, Girls Basketball
Columbus HS, Volleyball
Crowley HS, Boys Basketball
Denton Braswell HS, Footballl
Eagle Mountain HS, Girls Basketball
East Bernard HS, Volleyball
East Chambers HS, Baseball
Edcouch-Elsa HS, Boys Basketball
Edinburg HS, Boys Basketball
THANK YOU to all of the schools who reported participation so far in this spring's "Our Day to Shine" Campaign!
With support from our coaches and their communities, the THSCA is able to assist athletes & coaches beyond what our current benefit policies will allow.
Your donations from all spring events totalled over $9,000!
El Campo HS, Football
Fulshear HS, Football
George West HS, Football
George West HS, Volleyball
Hawley HS, Softball
Heritage HS, Girls Soccer
Iola HS, Volleyball
Irving HS, Boys Basketball
Jacksonville HS, Football
Kilgore HS, Boys Soccer
La Grange HS, Football
La Joya HS, Baseball
La Joya HS, Softball
Legacy HS, Girls Basketball
Lindale HS, Boys Basketball
Lindale HS, Girls Soccer
Lindale HS, Girls Basketball
Longview HS, Boys Soccer
MacArthur HS, Girls Basketball
Mansfield Summit HS, Girls Basketball
Martins Mill HS, Girls Basketball
Mathis HS, Girls Basketball
Midland HS, Baskeball
Midland Legacy HS, Baskeball
Midlo. Heritage HS, Girls Basketball
Morton Ranch HS, Football
Neches HS, Volleyball
New Caney ISD
O.D. Wyatt HS, Boys Basketball
Onalaska HS, Baseball
Orange Grove HS, Girls Basketball
Palestine HS, Football
Palestine HS, Volleyball
Palmview HS, Baseball
Pearland HS, Football
PSJA Southwest HS, Softball
Rice Consolidated HS, Boys Soccer
San Marcos HS, Girls Basketball
Seguin HS, Girls Basketball
Terrell HS, Boys Basketball
Tyler HEAT HS, Boys Basketball
Warren HS, Football
Warren HS, Baseball
Welaco East HS, Baseball
Whitehouse HS, Girls Soccer
Woodsboro HS, Girls Basketball
*Programs participating in Multiple Our Day to Shine Events.
TURF OF TEXAS CHAMPIONS
BUILDING A CHAMPIONSHIP CULTURE IN HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL
BY JESSICA PAULS - ASST. SOFTBALL COACH - KELLER HIGH SCHOOL
Start with Purpose: The Why Behind the Work
Culture is the foundation of a high school softball program. It's not just about how we play the gameit's about who we are when no one is watching. In our program, we begin by identifying our "why." Why do we show up every day? Why do we hustle on and off the field? Why do we support our teammates?
These guiding questions shape the heart of our culture. We establish clear values like discipline, respect, resilience, and trust, and we revisit them often-not just during team meetings but in everyday moments. From the way we stretch before practice to how we respond after a tough loss, culture shows up in everything we do. When players understand the deeper purpose behind their actions, their investment and accountability grow stronger.
Culture in Action: Systems That Work
Building culture doesn't stop with words on a locker room wall-it takes intentional action. In our
program, we implement consistent systems that reinforce our core values.
Our "Support Sisters" system pairs players each week to build trust and create opportunities for peer mentorship. Weekly check-ins, shout-outs, and even locker notes have made this one of our most beloved traditions.
We also integrate growth-focused tools like book studies-this year we tackled *Mind Gym*, learning how mental strength impacts physical performance. Community outreach projects, such as our firefighter day or youth clinic, help players see they are part of something much bigger than themselves.
Our themed home nights (like Teacher Appreciation and Military Night) and the 26-Minute Drill (our team fitness challenge) aren't just fun or competitive-they're culture in motion. These events help reinforce our commitment to unity, work ethic, and celebrating what makes us unique.
Learning from the Best
The most successful programs in college softball consistently demonstrate that a strong internal
GETTING COACHES INVOLVED
By Tate Smith offensive coordinator -
In the spring of 2023, I became the offensive coordinator at Permian High School. Being one of the premier programs in Texas certainly brings its own set of challenges, especially when you are tasked with not only managing the athletes but also onboarding a completely new offensive coaching staff. The initial thought of keeping the system running while adding diversity is a good one; but when faced with a new team of coaches, you quickly realize the depth of the challenge, especially in a high-pressure environment like Texas high school football. As an offensive coordinator, it is crucial to recognize that not everyone will have the same level of understanding of the game, both among your coaching staff and players. This is why clear, detailed communication is essential. Here are a few strategies for breaking things down effectively for both your coaches and players, especially on game day.
Here are some steps to ensure success in both coaching your athletes and effectively integrating your new offensive coaching staff into your system:
1. Onboarding the New Offensive Staff
• Establish Clear Communication from the Start: Right from the beginning, ensure that every coach on the staff is clear on their responsibilities, both in terms of their position group and overall role within the offensive system. Since you are dealing with coaches who might not be familiar with your system, providing them with the framework of your offensive philosophy is crucial.
• System Overview and Expectations: Schedule an intensive session to walk through the entire offensive system. You want to clearly outline your overall philosophy (e.g., tempo, read-based decisions, balanced attack) and why each piece of
the system works together. Include film examples, diagrams, and written materials to help everyone visualize and understand the big picture.
• Assign Specific Film Breakdown Roles: Since film breakdown is essential for preparation, assign specific tasks to each coach. For example, your offensive line coach should focus on the front-seven defensive alignments, while your wide receiver coach should be breaking down defensive back coverages and how they correlate with the route combinations. Explain how they should identify key tendencies and make in-game adjustments.
• Weekly Coaching Clinics: Dedicate some time each week for staff development sessions where you break down film together, review practice footage, and discuss game plans. This keeps the staff aligned on the system and helps prevent miscommunications.
• Get Everyone Involved in Game Planning: Ensure that your staff has a role in game planning, whether it is evaluating the opponent's defense, suggesting tweaks to the offense, or reviewing personnel matchups. This involvement builds confidence and helps develop a cohesive coaching unit.
2. Breaking Down Film for Coaches
• Teach How to Identify Key Tendencies: Emphasize the importance of understanding defensive schemes and the tendencies that can be exploited. For example, have coaches look for whether the defense blitzes on obvious passing downs or whether certain defensive players consistently overplay certain areas of the field.
odessa permian high school
• Teach the “Why” Behind Every Play: Make sure your coaches understand not only the play but why it works against a specific defensive scheme. For instance, explain how Zone Read Options running play is designed so you do not have to block everyone. It allows you to create numbers either on the zone or on the option. Another example is how Play Action pass with motion works well against a roll defense. When coaches understand the “why,” they can better teach players how to read and react on game day.
• Focus on Player Evaluations: During film review, make sure the coaching staff focuses on both the strengths and weaknesses of your players. This enables them to coach to each player's strengths and help them improve on their weaknesses. This approach is vital when you have a mix of unfamiliar staff members who may not yet be familiar with your athletes.
• Use Data and Analytics: If possible, use data and analytics to break down opponents' tendencies and help coaches prepare for different in-game scenarios. Tools like Hudl or other film analysis platforms can help provide advanced metrics to further inform decisions.
EX. (Questions used to help break down opposing team’s defense):
• FRONT – (O-Line Coach):
Do they flip their DL Strong & Weak, or do they play Right & Left?
Favorite front by D & D and Field Position?
Who is their BEST DL?
• SECONDARY- (Wide Receiver Coach):
Favorite coverage by D & D and Field Position?
Who is their BEST cover man? Their poorest?
Can we create mismatches with shifts and motions?
• LB’s- (Running Back Coach):
Are they downhill or gap LB’s or will they run?
Who is their BEST LB?
Do we have a match up that we can take advantage of?
• PRESSURE- (TE/Slot Coach):
Do they Blitz? If yes, when, and how?
What coverage do they play behind their zone blitzes?
Do they press when playing Cover 0?
3. Game Day Assignments for Coaches
• Clearly Define Roles on the Sideline and in the Press Box: On game day, everyone should know exactly where to focus their attention. For example, your offensive line coach on the field should be watching the three linemen closest to the sideline and defensive front to the sideline closely to identify any stunts or shifts. The offensive line coach in the box should watch the two lineman and front to the field. On the other hand, the wide receivers coach should be watching defensive backs for any soft spots or coverage mistakes. Tight end or slot coach watch blitzes and who is maned on backs.
• Real-Time Adjustments: It is essential that your coaches are not just passive observers on the sideline—they need to actively communicate observations and adjustments to you. Assign someone to be your "eyes" on the defense, helping to identify any shifts or tendencies that could inform your next play call. Use of video in the press box and at halftime is vital to in game adjustments.
• Stay on Top of the Tempo: As offensive coordinator, you are the conductor of the tempo, but you’ll need your staff’s full cooperation to execute it. Make sure that everyone knows how quickly to move from one play to the next. Your quarterback coach, for instance, should be ready to help the quarterback keep the offense moving without delay.
• Effective Communication with Players: Designate someone to relay quick adjustments to players on the field (Coach to O-line and TE as well as a Coach to skill players), especially when it comes to subtle tweaks in route running, blocking schemes, or even managing player fatigue.
• Manage the Clock and Situational Awareness: Assign one coach to be the "clock manager" who
keeps track of time during the game, particularly in critical situations such as two-minute drills or when you are running tempo.
4. Building Trust and Cohesion
• Foster Collaboration: Encourage open communication between your new coaching staff. Trust is built when they know their opinions are valued, and you are all on the same page. This collaboration will be key to your success, especially with a diverse group of coaches.
• Weekly Check-ins: After each game, have a staff meeting to go over what worked and where improvements can be made. Discuss how the game plan was executed and whether the staff needs to adjust certain coaching techniques or coverage areas.
• Player Development Through Coaching: Remember that your new coaches are also responsible for player development. Make sure they are focused on coaching the fundamentals, teaching their position groups to consistently execute under pressure, and pushing them to make incremental improvements throughout the
5. Emphasizing the Culture of a Big-Time Program
• Permian Pride: Recognize that coaching at a highprofile program like Permian means you are not just coaching football—you are shaping young athletes to represent one of the most storied high school football programs in Texas. Make sure your new coaching staff understands the responsibility that comes with it, both on and off the field.
• Consistency: As the offensive coordinator, it is crucial to be a steady hand, ensuring that even though there are a lot of changes with new coaches, the expectations remain high, and the culture of excellence is upheld. That consistency will rub off on both the staff and the players.
Transitioning to a new offensive scheme or an unfamiliar staff and high expectations can be overwhelming, but it is also an exciting opportunity to shape a new generation of athletes and coaches. With clear communication, detailed instructions, and strong leadership, you can successfully integrate your system, build trust with your staff, and lead any offense to great heights.
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