Texas Coach - February 2025 - Volume LXIX No. 6 by THSCAcoaches

Elevate Your Team Culture

School-Safe Communication, Built for Coaches

Improve day-to-day team communication with a platform built for coaches, not classrooms. sportsYou stores all district communications and can provide messaging history to administrators upon request.

sportsYou is a school-safe platform

Free for schools + built for coaches

sportsYou does not sell individual user data

Districts can access communication history

Your data is encrypted and stored in the US Join

sportsYou is a 100% American-owned company

Set Up Your Teams

1. Sign up for sportsYou

2. Create your first team/group

3. Add members

4. Configure team settings

5. Designate admins

Download the sportsYou App to Get Started

New THSCA group codes are live in the member portal!

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.

POSTMASTER send address change to:

TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL COACHES ASSOCIATION P.O. Drawer 1138 SAN MARCOS, TX 78667-1138

Printed by Capital Printing Co 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

BOARD OF DIRECTORS COMMITTEES for

2024-2025:

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

Director-Elects & Alternates:

DIRECTOR-ELECTS

*Denotes Chair

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

todd winfrey region 1 - canyon

clint hartman region 4 - midl. legacy

fred staugh region 4 - monahans

marvin sedberry jr. region 3 - terrell

josh gibson (interim) region 3 - Pleasant Grove

allen gratts region 3 - arl. bowie

b.j. gotte (interim) region

laqueisha dickerson region 5 - timberview

shaun mcdowell region 5 - grand oaks

brian randle (interim) region 5

jerry carpentier

clint

don hyde

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

DIGITAL TICKETING IS NOW PART OF THE FAN ENGAGEMENT SUITE.

Fan-friendly and easy to manage. Meet Hudl Tickets.

Everything in one place.

Fans can watch live games and highlights, see schedules, and now buy tickets, all in one place.

Completely customizable. Choose your pricing, ticket types, capacity and single or multi-game ticketing.

No added cost.

It’s free to add Hudl Tickets to your organization.

More efficient entry.

Each ticket holds a QR code that fans scan at the gate, giving them direct entry in seconds and reducing lines. No minimums.

There are no minimums on tickets sold. Sell as many or as few as you’d like.

Let Hudl do the setup.

Let us know which events you want to offer digital ticketing and we’ll set it up for you.

Better reporting and security.

Digital sales simplify the accounting, security, and reporting process. Get a real-time look at who purchased tickets, tickets sold, and revenue generated.

Make your live events easier to attend. Get started with Hudl Ticketing at: hudl.com/solutions/fan/ticketing

FROM THE PRESIDENT

February

This is the busiest time of year for most every one of us. Our coaches and student athletes have something going on every night of the week. Every sport other than football and volleyball are in full force. Good luck to all of you who are in season. I hope everyone took the opportunity to attend the Regional Meeting on Saturday, February 1st. Our Regional Meetings serve a multitude of purposes and provides us an opportunity to network with coaches from our area of the state, feeds us information about THSCA initiatives, and it gives us an opportunity to voice our concerns on issues that are currently affecting our coaching profession.

A few reminders of important dates approaching:

• February 24th - Leadership Summit. If you have never been, this is an outstanding event!

• March 1st - Academic All State for Basketball (Boys & Girls) and Wrestling are due.

• March 1st - Registration for Coaching School and Membership Renewal for 2025-26 opens.

- Hotel Reservations for coaching school are now open on our website.

- Super Elite Team and Coach of the Year Nominations for Wrestling, Swim/Dive, and Basketball are due in the coming weeks.

Congratulations to the new 2025 class of ROCK mentees on their selection to the program. We thank you for all your nominations, as the field is very competitive. The ROCKs will attend the workshop at AT&T Stadium in early March. For those of you that were selected, it will be a very memorable and beneficial experience.

Please take advantage of our many member benefits. One of the most important benefits provided is the Liability Insurance. For a very small fee, you can be covered. In today's climate, being covered is more important than ever. Also, another great benefit for THSCA members is the Benevolence Fund. While we hope that we never have to use it, it is a great benefit in a time of great need. Please contribute to this fund by using "Our Day to Shine" in your upcoming scrimmages.

In closing, thank you for the job you do daily. You are making a big difference in the lives of young men and women. These student-athletes need you more today than ever before. They need everything that sports have to offer them, but they need to know they matter. Texas High School Coaches have been shaping lives and loving athletes for many years. Please continue to carry this torch with pride. Your impact is huge!

John Snelson, THSCA President

Obituary

Thank you to DICK's Sporting Goods for sponsoring our 2024 Volleyball and Football Super Elite Teams. VISIT www.thsca.com/super-elite-teams TO

COACH ANTHONY "TONY" TADEMY

Anthony Duane Tademy, a beloved husband, father, brother, coach, and friend, passed away Monday, January 6, 2025, in Grand Prairie, Texas. He was born March 1, 1959, to the late Raymond Hall Tademy and the late Ruth Banks Tademy.

Coach Tony Tademy was a dedicated and passionate figure in the world of sports, known especially for using athletics to positively impact young men and women. Before becoming a revered coach, “Coach T” was first and foremost an athlete. His love for all sports was evident from a young age, as he excelled in football, baseball, basketball, and track. A standout moment in his early career was being part of the 1976 Arkansas state championship football team at Jacksonville HS, a testament to his skill and team spirit.

His talent on the field earned him a football scholarship to Louisiana Tech Univ., where he helped lead the Bulldogs to a pair of Independence Bowl appearances in 1977 and 1978. Tony served as a student coach for the 1981 and 1982 seasons, and he ultimately graduated from Tech in 1983 with a bachelor’s degree in general studies.

After his time in Louisiana, Tony joined the staff at the University of Mississippi, becoming the program’s first African-American graduate assistant football coach. Tademy continued to be a trailblazer, becoming the first African-American football coach at Virginia Military Institute in 1985. Coach Tademy returned to Louisiana Tech as a full-time coach in 1987, and he later spent time at Howard University, Northeast Louisiana University, the University of Houston, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Blinn College, Texas Christian University, Henderson State University, and various high schools in Texas.

Since 2018, Tony has served as the head football coach and campus athletic coordinator for Grand Prairie High School. In 2021, he led the Gophers to the UIL Class 6A, Region 1, Division II Bi-District Football Championship, the program’s first playoff victory in over 30 years. In total, Coach T spent 43 years on the sidelines at 16 schools and was a 25 year member of THSCA.

FEBRUARY 2025

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 >>>

Jerry Bomar announced his retirement after a 40-year career coaching at the UIL level where he posted a 262-172-3 record and he led Groesbeck to a state title in 1991.

Edward Cardenas, who led San Antonio Jefferson for nine seasons announces his retirement on January 24.

Chuck Caniford announces his retirement after 23 seasons at Nacogdoches, New Braunfels, Clifton and Krum, he had a 132-128 overall record.

Frank Cantu announces his retirement on January 9, he led Raymondville for eleven seasons posting a 57-52 record.

Bob DeBesse, who had a long college career with stops at TCU, Purdue, New Mexico, Georgia Southern and Texas State announces his retirement, he led the Grapevine Mustangs for two seasons.

Shane Hallmark who posted a 97-84 overall record in seventeen seasons as a head coach announces his retirement. He led Fort Bend Hightower to a state title game in 2008.

Sam Harrell announces his retirement after a sensational career where he posted a 247-87 record leading Ennis to three state titles.

Kevin Hoffman, who spent 34 years in coaching announces his retirement on January 9. He led Mart to six state championship game appearances winning three straight state titles from 2017-2019. He posted an astonishing 121-13 record in nine seasons.

Gary Koch retires after leading the Houston Memorial Mustangs for 32 seasons posting a 198-154-3 record, he led Memorial to a state semifinal appearance in 2010.

Joe Koch, a member of the Wisconsin High School Football Coaches Hall of Fame retires after a 41-year head coaching career. He led Paradise to their first state semifinal appearance in 2024, he posted a record of 57-26 in seven seasons at Paradise.

Russell Lucas who led Hamlin to a state title game in 2019 retires after a 21-year head coaching career with stops at Rotan, Hamlin and Sweetwater announces his retirement. He's led the Sweetwater Mustangs since 2021.

Todd Quick announces his retirement from Lufkin after 30 years coaching with the Panthers, the last 13 as the AD/HFC.

Mitch McLemore, who was a fixture in the Big Country as an assistant and head coach announces his retirement after spending eleven seasons as a head coach at Junction, Big Spring, Petrolia and Haskell.

Marc Schmid, who led Conroe Oak Ridge for six seasons announced his retirement on February 5. He posted a career 154-76 record in twenty total seasons as a head coach at The Woodlands and Oak Ridge.

Aaron Slider, who spent two seasons as head coach at Mineola, announces his retirement.

Quirino Silva, who led the Cleveland Indians for two seasons announces his retirement after a 30-year career in coaching.

Chad Simmons announces his retirement after leading Katy Taylor for seven seasons and spending 38 years in coaching. He led the Mustangs to the state semifinals in 2019.

Todd Swearengin who led Hico for four seasons will not return for 2025 as he announces his retirement.

Matt Swinnea, who led Frisco Liberty for six seasons announces his retirement. He led the Redhawks to ten wins and an area round playoff appearance in 2021.

Finis Vanover retires after a 38-year head coaching career with stops at Hardin-Jefferson, Fort Worth Paschal, Seminole, Diboll, Angleton, Tomball Memorial and Livingston.

Richard Whitaker, who led Calhoun to a state semifinal appearance in 2013 and four regional final appearances announces his retirement on January 8. He retired with a 191-112 overall record.

Anthony Wood, who spent twenty seasons as Westwood's head coach announces his retirement on January 9.

NOW HEAR THIS

COACHES ON THE MOVE >>>

Carl Abseck from HFC at Barbers Hill to HFC at Lufkin.

Buddy Adams promoted from OC to HFC at Warren.

Jose Aguirre promoted from DC to HFC at Gatesville.

Keiston Alexander from Asst. at Coppell to HFC at Little Elm.

Marte Amrine from AD/HFC at Maypearl to AD/HFC at Brewer.

Adam Arteaga from OC at Pieper to HFC at Nevada Community.

Chris Babin from DC at Katy Jordan to HFC at Katy Taylor.

Kevin Bachtel from HC at Howard Payne to HFC at Edgewood.

Clay Baker from HFC at Henderson to HFC at Price Carlisle.

David Beaty returns to HS football as HFC at Denton.

Luke Blackwell from AD only to AD/HFC at Mineola.

Rod Blount from AD/HFC at Geronimo Navarro to AD/HFC at George West.

Shea Bolton from DC at Baytown Sterling to HFC at Danbury.

Trevor Bulmer promoted from DC to HFC at Morton.

Joel Call from Asst. HC at Converse Judson to AD/HFC at Marion.

Jody Cantu from DC at Edinburg Vela to HFC at Mission.

Tucker Carter from OC at Whitehouse to HFC at Livingston.

J.B. Chaney promoted from Asst. to HFC at Holland.

Nick Codutti from HFC at Fulshear to HFC at Klein.

Will Compton promoted from HFC to Athletic Director at Hutto.

Shawn Copeland from AD at Spring Hill ISD to HFC at Mabank.

Richard Davis from OC at Karnes City to HFC at Aransas Pass.

Don Drake from AD to HFC at Ennis.

Doug Duncan moving from admin to HFC at Denver City.

Matt Fanning from Asst. at Hardin-Simmons to HFC at Alvord.

Matthew Garci from DC at SA Johnson to HFC at San Diego.

David Gibbons from OC at Sotomayor to HFC at Edison.

Kenneth Gilchrist from HFC at Frisco Heritage to open a new program at Prosper Richland.

Scott Green from OC at Lufkin to HFC at Groveton.

Brooks Haack from OC at Richmond Randle to HFC at Houston Memorial.

Lyndon Hamilton from HFC at SA Reagan to HFC at Gonzalez.

Britt Hart promoted from OC to HFC at Hico.

Glenn Hill from DC at Smithson Valley to AD/HFC at Geronimo Navarro.

Luke Hobbs from HFC at Schulenburg to AD/HFC at Giddings.

Travis Hoffer from DC at Needville to HFC at Palacios.

Zack Hudson from HC at Mabank to HFC at Eustace.

John Huffstetler from DC at Center to HFC at Pittsburg.

Kiah Johnson from HFC at Lamar Cons. to open a new program at Richmond Thomas.

Lawrence Johnson from HFC at WF Legacy to AD/HFC at Brownfield.

Stu Johnson from DC at Lewisville to HFC at McKinney Boyd.

Trent Jones from OC at Silsbee to HFC at Buffalo.

Weldon Jones from Asst. at Economedes to HFC at Donna.

Laytner Kennedy promoted from Asst. to HFC at Bogota Rivercrest.

FEBRUARY 2025

Luke Klingler promoted from Asst. HC to AD/HFC at Somerville.

Tommy Koch promoted from DC to HFC at Paradise.

Nelson Kortis from AD/HFC at Johnson City to AD/HFC at Eustace.

Corey Laxen promoted to HFC at C.E. King.

Stephen Liska promoted from HFC to AD at Pleasanton.

Kyle Little from HFC at Harleton to HFC at Honey Grove.

Will Littleton from HFC at PSJA Memorial to AD/HFC at Raymondville.

Matt Luddeke from DC at Cameron Yoe to HFC at Vanderbilt Industrial.

Blaine McBride promoted from OC to HFC at Tom Bean.

Travis McClain from HC at Rivercrest to HFC at Mount Vernon.

Ausitn Menner from OC at CC Miller to HFC at CC King.

Patrick Oliver from Asst. at Needville to HFC at Wallis Brazos.

Terrance Orr from OC at Herbon to HFC at Mesquite Poteet.

Tony Pallanez from HFC at EP Riverside to HFC at Pecos.

Mike Peters from HFC at Saginaw to AD at Pecos.

Chad President promoted from OC to HFC at Temple.

Eli Reinhart from OC at North Crowley to HFC at Hutto.

J.J. Resendez from Asst. at Brewer to HFC at FW North Side.

Jason Richards from HFC at Muleshoe to open a new program at Frenship Memorial.

Bill Robertson from DC at A&M Cons. to HFC at Georgetown East View.

Ajani Sanders from Asst. at Summer Creek to HFC at Cleveland.

Jared Shaw from OC at Copperas Cove to HFC at Bastrop Cedar Creek.

Derrick Shelton from OC at Mount Pleasant to HFC at Farwell.

A.J. Sheppard from DB coach at Mansfield Summit to HFC at Cleburne.

Cody Simper from HFC at Cypress Woods to HFC at Barbers Hill.

Andy Smith from Asst. at Gregory-Portland to HFC at CC London.

Shawn Sparks from OC at Saginaw to HFC at Boyd.

Dillon Surratt from Asst. at Liberty-Eylau to AD/HFC at Linden-Kildare.

Chris Taber promoted from OC to AD/HFC at Krum.

Jamaar Taylor from OC at Weslaco East to HFC at McAllen Rowe.

Rafael Thomas from HFC at Yates to HFC at Mesquite.

You deserve more than healthcare.

You deserve compassionate care.

Personalized healthcare when you need it most

Your questions and concerns about your health matter. Ascension Seton care teams are here to empower you and your family by listening, respecting your experiences, and creating a care plan that works for you. You deserve to be seen and heard. That‘s why our doors are always open to provide health and healing, for the whole you — body, mind and spirit. To us, you are more than a patient. And together, we are a community.

wit wisdom&

CONSISTENCY

“Normal is doing what you have to do to get by. Special is doing everything you can do to be the best that you can be."

Nick Saban

“You can't get much done in life if you only work on the days when you feel good.”

Jerry West

"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence then, is not an act, but a habit."

Aristotle

" I start early and I stay late, day after day, year after year. It took me 17 years and 114 days to become an overnight success.."

Lionel Messi

"No matter who you are, we're creatures of habit. The better your habits are, the better they will be in pressure situations."

Wayne Gretzky

"A coach is someone who can give correction without causing resentment."

John Wooden

LEADERSHIP IN COACHING

"The best coaches never tell their athletes that they are wrong. They rather focus on creating awareness."

Abhishek Ratna

"The interesting thing about coaching is that you have to trouble the comfortable, and comfort the troubled."

Ric Charlesworth

"Leadership is a matter of having people look at you and gain confidence…If you're in control, they're in control."

Tom Landry

“A coach’s job is not to make decisions for the players but to guide and equip them to make the right decisions themselves.”

Greg Glassman

WE DON'T WANT EASY:

COACHING MENTAL TOUGHNESS & OVERCOMING ADVERSITY

“The children now love luxury; they have bad manners, contempt for authority; they show disrespect for elders and love chatter in place of exercise.” Socrates (469-399 B.C.)

This is one of my favorite quotes to go back and reflect on. We can all get frustrated sometimes, same as Socrates 2500 years ago thinking the next generation was headed down the wrong path and there might not be much hope. Obviously, the distractions are different for kids today, from social media to vaping and everything in between. Student-athletes can frustrate you if they don’t have a similar mindset, but the ability to instill mental toughness and teach them how to fight through adversity is more important than any X’s and O’s we might have in our sport. These are critical attributes that high school sports help establish and develop for these young men and women to use for the rest of their lives.

Playing sports is not all luxury. It’s not easy to wake up early for weights and meetings; it’s not easy to go to practice after a full day of school. But we don’t want easy. The mental toughness that is learned by going through those things will enhance your ability to complete tasks, no matter the adversity faced. Because of this, high school athletics and the impact coaches had on me changed the trajectory of my life. Now continuing to grow in this profession, I’m blessed to have been around some unbelievable coaches and athletic programs that continue to make an impact. Looks and styles may be different, but there are some overarching beliefs that tie them all together. Having a growth mindset, modeling and leadership, emotional awareness, focusing on process vs. results with consistency are key ideas that help instill mental toughness and show the kids we work with how to face and overcome adversity.

Having a Growth Mindset

Creating an environment where it is okay to try and fail, and get back up to try again is a big part of developing mental toughness and handling adversity. Here at Ryan HS, we use the saying, “We Don’t Want Easy”, stressing that the greatest things you accomplish are usually what you worked the hardest for. I try to make practice as fast and intense as possible and put kids in that situation. This helps slow the game down when you get into a game environment because you have already mentally been there. Pushing for continual improvement and instilling that growth mindset is also a game changer. The phrase “Good is not good enough if better is possible,” can be said over and over again to foster that type of intentionality.

Modeling and Leadership

Coaches should be striving to model what mental toughness can look like through their own behavior. Keeping a consistent daily routine or staying calm under pressure, athletes will learn by watching you. We faced a tragic situation this past season at Ryan HS with the sudden and unexpected loss of a coach. Our kids came together and helped each other to grieve. Our coaching staff was similar. Being transparent with their emotions, and modeling how to respond to that situation played a huge part in our team acknowledging their emotions, and working together to fight through an adverse situation. Your actions are louder than your words. Make sure you are trying to live out the type of mindset you are preaching.

Emotional Awareness

We have a big wall graphic in our football facility that says, “Football is a Game of Emotion!”. Being pas-

sionate and invested is part of the emotion. This also aligns with positive & negative self-talk and managing what the message is. It’s a little thing, but instead of yelling, “Don’t jump offsides!” to defensive lineman on a critical 3rd & Short situation, we try to emphasize the same goal by yelling, “Ball Key!”. Acknowledge the emotions, but it is a fine line combining the emotions with situational awareness. It is a delicate balance of pushing the leaders on your team to get outside of themselves and show their passion for the game without getting lost in those same emotions. Be vulnerable and show emotion, then teach how you can respond.

Process vs. Results

I’m a huge fan of Nick Saban. Focusing on the process instead of the end results is something Saban popularized when building his dominant Alabama teams. The ability to focus on the task at hand, in the moment regardless of what it might be. Forget about previous plays and the possible future outcomes. Even in a walkthrough setting, getting your student-athletes to focus and “Paint a Picture” of how their alignment, stance ,and steps will be in a game environment is a skill. Training and getting them to buy into the idea that if they put in elite preparation, stay in the moment - every moment, then the result will take care of itself. This still rings true as a coach. Don’t worry about awards or recognition, those will take care of themselves when you are rooted in the process.

Consistency

None of these core beliefs will be of much use if you are not consistent in your approach with them. I believe kids secretly crave discipline, though they will never tell you that, so being consistent is huge when you are dealing with your student-athletes. I am a big

proponent of the idea “Confront & Demand”, confront the negative you might see (from bad body language, not touching the line or not dressing in the correct gear) and demand what has been set as your standard. The willingness to confront those actions, whether it is a starter or 3rd-string player is what sets how consistent you are. It doesn’t have to be demeaning, but make sure the kids you are working with know that your standard never changes.

Our 2024 Denton Ryan football team dealt with one of the toughest things I’ve had to face, the sudden loss of one of our coaches, Aaron De La Torre. It shook our team, school, and community. He was a friend to many, a colleague to all of us at Ryan High School, and father-figure to many of our student-athletes. As I struggled with my own emotions both at work and home, I found myself leaning on the same principles that I try to teach my players. Having emotional awareness and trying to model a response became critical in how I approached each day. Somehow our kids were able to work through the adversity and show more mental toughness than I have ever seen, growing together and focusing on the process leading them to the state semi-finals.

As in the days of Socrates, this generation of student-athletes might get a bad reputation. But the impact you are making on a daily basis is building our leaders for the next generation. Life is hard. You will face adversity. Make sure we are preparing our kids, using your sport as a vehicle, to instill the mental toughness they can use on for the rest of their lives.

Written By Will Cockerill, Defensive Coordinator Denton Ryan High School

around the state

THE HIGH SCHOOL TRANSFER PORTAL

BY MARVIN SEDBERRY JR.

THSCA REGION 3 DIRECTOR/DIRECTOR - ATHLETICS/HEAD FOOTBALL COACH, TERRELL HS

Success in Texas High School football can be achieved in many ways. One key strategy is developing a fundamentally sound program that builds strong football IQ in players from a young age. This foundation ensures that by the time they reach high school, they possess the knowledge and skills needed to excel and take control of the game. That way takes long term planning, execution, and patience. Another way that some programs have found to achieve success is through the Texas High School “Transfer Portal”. There are many ways to utilize this program, both legally and illegally. What a coach chooses to do is ultimately based on their integrity and values. One thing no one can argue is the “Transfer Portal” has changed the way Texas High School football is played.

Is “winning at all costs” becoming the new norm? The stakes in Texas High School Football have never been higher. Administrators, school boards, communities, and athletes all expect and demand success. Falling short of these expectations can mean the loss of your job, regardless of effort or progress.

This high-pressure environment is mirrored by the influence of the four major college football conferences. The four major college sports conferences, the Big 10, Big 12, Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), Southeastern Conference (SEC), make up the Power 4 Conferences in the US. Society demands instant results and this push has affected every level of football. Fans, alumni, and organizations expect immediate success, and if they don’t see it, they push for players to be

cut or replaced. In these conferences, massive resources are poured into recruiting the best talent with the promise of NIL deals. Student athletes can earn money when they participate in endorsement deals, creating a strong social media presence to monetize their personal brand. This focus on performance and monetary reward has shifted the motivation for many young athletes— from a love of the game to a love of the wealth it promises.

This mindset has bled into high school sports, contributing to the misuse of mechanisms like the “transfer portal,” raising ethical and legal concerns about its impact on the integrity of the game. Since the implementation of NIL deals at the collegiate level, rogue agents have popped up throughout the communities recruiting players by the promise of a pipeline to a NIL deal at the next level. Parents have given over guardianship to their children in exchange for the promise that an NIL deal will be returned at the end of their high

school career. These agents prey upon the instant gratification mindset, the poverty community, and the entitlement felt amongst young people. Agents guide parents by creating a falsification of documents to beat the system. Due to the lack of oversight at the national level, it is easy to take a player to another state, play him there, and then return them to Texas and have the PAPF paperwork be sent to the out of state school. They are not obligated to complete the paperwork and if it has been more than a year since the athlete last played in Texas, there is no requirement to send it to the previous Texas school. This loophole allows a player who has transferred for athletic reasons to go unnoticed.

Another approach involves coaches actively recruiting players from other teams. When a team or coach has a strong winning record, it becomes easier to persuade athletes from other districts to transfer for athletic opportunities. Unfortunately, this often leads to parents fabricating information on official documents to make their child appear eligible, further undermining the integrity of high school sports. Camps, and 7-on-7 Leagues have given coaches access to players throughout the state, and not just in their own community. This allows coaches easy access to parents to have these conversations away from the schoolhouse. If a school has been able to achieve winning results by using these methods over the years, it can be overlooked or seen as the norm for academic liaisons, counselors, etc., to do the dirty paperwork and keep the coaches hands clean.

What lessons does an athlete learn by competing this way? They learn that when they disagree with a coach’s decisions or methods, they can simply transfer to another district, avoiding the challenge of resolving conflicts or persevering through difficulties. These behaviors rarely go unnoticed among teams, sending a clear message: if coaches disregard the rules, why should players feel compelled to follow them? This mindset extends to parents and students, who often act as though the rules don’t apply to them. These distorted values and behaviors not only harm the

integrity of sports but also instill life lessons that are detrimental to society as a whole.

How can a coach succeed legally amidst the pressures of society? Success starts with integrity, discipline, and a clear focus on building a culture of excellence that prioritizes the development of athletes. Coaches must emphasize longterm growth over quick wins, fostering strong fundamentals, teamwork, and accountability in their players. Transparent communication with athletes, parents, and the community about the program’s values and goals helps align expectations and build trust. Parent, administrator, staff support is integral to the success of this program.

School administration also plays a crucial role in supporting the development of a program. They can prioritize the program’s growth not only for its competitive success but for the betterment of the athletes’ lives. When the focus centers on character-building, sportsmanship, and education, both the program and its athletes can flourish, fostering lifelong success and meaningful impact. It is imperative that the administration of feeder campuses recognizes and supports the need for vertical alignment. In an athletic setting, program growth through a vertical alignment approach is just as vital as it is in an academic setting. This alignment ensures continuity, development, and success at all levels.

There are legal ways to “recruit” players. Strong communities create growth and that growth attracts parents and students to move legally to the community. Forming partnerships with community youth programs creates a seamless transition to the high school level. Coaches from these programs play an integral role in fostering a sense of pride within the community and encouraging athletes as they advance to middle and high school. In our community, youth coaches continue to support athletes when they reach the next level. As a coach, I see them attending signing days and showing up at games. Their involvement is crucial to the development of our program. This creates a base for a program that is built upon integrity and discipline. Transparency is key when building a successful program. Parents need to see that winning is just as important to you as it is to them, but so is upholding a program that values integrity and strong moral principles. When parents are on your side and actively engaged in the community, it creates a supportive environment where students can thrive both on and off the field. Parents are also key to promoting your program. They are the ones actively engaging with other parents throughout the community and beyond that can persuade others to move to your school district. Showcasing the success of your program, your athletes, your coaches on social media is another way to cultivate growth in your community. All of these “recruitment” techniques do not require side conversations, or illegal paperwork. They are simply a way to build

a strong, long term program that aligns with the rules set forth by the UIL.

By following the rules, you not only maintain your own high standards but also set an example that raises the standards of society as a whole. A program built on transparency, ethics, and collaboration fosters stronger athletes and individuals who are better prepared to succeed in life, creating a lasting impact far beyond the scoreboard. Having integrity means choosing courage over comfort, doing what’s right instead of what’s easy, and living by your values instead of just talking about them. Doing the right thing isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it. As a coach, it is up to you to decide what type of program you run and how you want those wins to look.

Texas High School Coaches Association & the 89th Texas Legislative Session

What coaches need to know

by Joe Martin, Thsca executive director

The 89th legislative session is underway, and there’s plenty to keep an eye on. The bills emerging from this session have the potential to drastically alter the landscape of public school education and athletics in Texas. As we navigate this legislative season, it is crucial to stay informed and engaged.

Understanding the Texas Legislature

Before diving into the specifics of this session, let’s take a moment to revisit how the Texas Legislature operates. The legislative body consists of two chambers: the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Senate comprises 31 members, led by Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, while the House consists of 150 members, led by Speaker of the House Dustin Burrows of Lubbock. While both chambers introduce and vote on their own bills, no legislation becomes law until it passes through both chambers and is signed by the governor.

In terms of passing legislation, the process tends to be quicker in the Senate, where a bill requires only 16 votes to pass, compared to the House, where 76 votes are needed. This means

that priority bills, particularly those championed by the governor, often move through the Senate at a much faster pace.

Key Issues in the 89th Legislative Session

This session is shaping up to be a continuation of legislative battles from previous years. If you recall, the 86th session was dominated by discussions around homeschooling, while the 87th and 88th shifted focus to vouchers and school choice. This trend continues in the 89th session, where school choice is the defining issue.

Simply put, a voucher system allows students to transfer from public to private schools while taking a portion of public funding with them— funding that would have otherwise remained within the public school system. Given that Governor Greg Abbott has made school choice a top priority, it is expected to be one of the first major issues addressed this session. Bills deemed high priority are assigned low numbers, and in this case, the voucher bill is Senate Bill 2 (SB2), signifying its significance.

Beyond school choice, multiple bills directly affecting the University Interscholastic League (UIL) have been introduced. Over recent years, UIL’s enforcement of Texas’ eligibility rules has drawn both statewide and national attention. As part of the broader school choice debate, legislation such as House Bill 619 (HB619) proposes a "transfer portal," allowing students to switch schools without residency restrictions. Other proposed bills aim to redefine UIL’s authority in governance and eligibility adjudication.

While these bills are critical for high school athletics, they do not carry the same priority as vouchers and school funding. Therefore, they are expected to be debated later in the session. However, it is clear that vouchers, transfer portals, and UIL-related bills have the potential to significantly reshape high school athletics and impact school budgets across the state.

THSCA’s Legislative Priorities

As we move through the session, THSCA’s mission remains steadfast: protecting educationand community-based athletics. Athletics play a

vital role in shaping students, schools, families, and communities, and it is our duty to advocate for policies that preserve and strengthen that impact.

Our key legislative priorities include:

► Protecting UIL’s authority to oversee and enforce athletic rules and eligibility.

► Ensuring full funding for public schools so that they remain competitive and well-resourced.

► Mitigating the impact of vouchers on public school funding and resources.

► Maintaining athletics as a key component of a student’s education, rather than the primary focus of high school.

Navigating the legislative process involves strategic maneuvering. Bills rarely remain unchanged from introduction to passage, as negotiations often require compromise on one issue to secure strength in another. Through the work of our lobbyists and long-standing relationships with legislators, THSCA will closely monitor developments and advocate for policies that align with our mission.

Other Developments to Watch

Beyond formal legislation, other trends and policies threaten Texas athletics. One growing concern is the increasing number of school districts opting for open enrollment policies to boost student enrollment—and consequently, state funding. Without proper oversight, this could erode the foundation of community-based athletics, as students may begin transferring schools for athletic rather than educational reasons.

Additionally, reports of recruiting violations— particularly in metropolitan areas—are becoming

more prevalent. This self-inflicted issue provides ammunition for those advocating for unrestricted school choice, as they argue that school-switching for athletic reasons is already happening. To protect the integrity of Texas high school athletics, it is essential that these issues be addressed at both the local and legislative levels.

What to Expect from THSCA

Throughout this session, THSCA remains committed to keeping our members informed and engaged. Your focus should remain on your students and athletes, and we will take on the responsibility of monitoring legislative developments. Our promise is to:

► Communicate important legislative updates that affect coaches and schools.

► Educate members on critical issues impacting athletics and public education.

► Organize calls to action when coach involvement can have the greatest impact.

In return, we ask that you trust our leadership in guiding you through this process. We encourage you to take action when needed, particularly in educating parents about UIL residency rules and how they relate to open enrollment.

One of the biggest takeaways from recent legislative cycles is the importance of voter engagement. Many of the challenges we face today stem from a lack of participation in primary elections, which resulted in the loss of key allies for public schools. We urge you to stay informed, involved, and prepared to make your voice heard in future elections.

Conclusion

As this legislative session unfolds, we look forward to working alongside our members and other coaching associations to amplify our collective voice. We have no doubt that Texas coaches will rise to this challenge, just as they do every day in their programs and communities.

Together, we can ensure that Texas high school athletics remains a strong, community-centered experience for our students. And as always, we are here to Help Coaches, Help Kids.

Why we must fight for community-based high school athletics in texas

Texas high school athletics are more than just games—they are the heart of our communities. The traditions, pride, and identity tied to local high school teams unite towns across the state. Unlike other states, Texas has maintained a model of education-based athletics where student-athletes compete for their hometown schools, coached by teachers and administrators who invest in their growth on and off the field. But this unique and valued system is at risk.

It is essential that coaches, teachers, and parents can articulate and speak about the reasons why it is important to save community and education-based athletics. Without a strong and unified voice, the values that have long defined Texas high school sports could be lost.

The Heart of Community-Based Athletics

High school sports in Texas are more than just athletic competitions—they represent the spirit and identity of local communities. Student-athletes grow up together, attend the same schools, and share experiences that forge lifelong connections. Athletics are not just for the athletes—they provide opportunities for cheer and band, student council, and spirit groups to participate in the shared pride and excitement of competition, fostering a deep sense of belonging and school spirit.

When student-athletes are allowed to transfer freely for athletic purposes, schools risk losing their homegrown talent, diminishing the pride and unity that high school athletics bring to towns both large and small.

What We Can Learn from Other States

The consequences of unrestricted transfers are clear in states that have already adopted these policies. Florida, for example, has experienced a dramatic shift since implementing a transfer rule. Community engagement has declined, attendance at games has dropped, and many schools struggle to maintain local fan bases. When athletes no longer represent their hometowns, the emotional connection between teams and their communities’ fades.

Additionally, some states have implemented policies allowing for unrestricted athlete transfers, leading to the rise of “all-star teams,” recruitment battles, and a decline in community support. Texas, however, has upheld fairness and integrity through its current transfer policy, which is overseen by the University Interscholastic League (UIL) and supported by the Texas High School Coaches Association (THSCA). This model ensures that Texas high school athletics remain a foundation for education, character development, and community unity. We must protect this system to avoid the pitfalls seen elsewhere.

The Lessons at Risk

High school athletics teach valuable life lessons that extend far beyond the field or court. The ability to fight through adversity, learn from mistakes, and stay loyal to a team fosters resilience and character.

Being part of a team means standing for something bigger than oneself. It means putting the needs of the group ahead of personal ambition, learning to work with others, and seeing the fruits of hard work and commitment over time. When

student-athletes can leave at will, they lose the opportunity to develop perseverance, dedication, and a deep sense of belonging.

Education-based athletics means that these lessons are an extension of the classroom. Time management, discipline, and balancing responsibilities are all skills learned through athletics that prepare students for success beyond high school. These lessons create productive citizens who contribute meaningfully to their communities, but if we shift toward a system that prioritizes athletic success over education, we lose a key element that makes Texas high school athletics unique.

The Economic and Cultural Impact

The impact of weakened community-based athletics extends beyond the schools themselves. Many small businesses rely on the economic boost from game days, with local restaurants, retailers, and service providers benefiting from the crowds and excitement of high school sports. When attendance drops and community engagement diminishes, local economies feel the loss.

Moreover, the identity of Texas high school sports has always been rooted in community spirit. When student-athletes are no longer seen as hometown kids but instead as temporary competitors moving from team to team, the loyalty

Meet

that fuels high school athletics begins to erode.

Why We Must Stand Firm

Texas has set the standard for high school athletics nationwide, and we cannot afford to follow in the footsteps of states that now regret their decision to loosen transfer policies. We must continue to fight for the values that make Texas high school athletics special—community, integrity, and education-based sports.

This is not just about competition; it’s about preserving the traditions and community bonds that define our state. Coaches, teachers, and parents must be able to clearly communicate why this fight matters. Our student-athletes deserve more than just a game—they deserve a community that stands behind them, a school system that prioritizes both education and competition and a legacy that remains intact for years to come. The fight for community-based athletics in Texas is a fight for the future of our towns, our schools, and our youth.

THSCA Legislative info

(See what bills THSCA is tracking this session/read important notes & alerts throughout the session.)

HOW Texas LAWS Are

A bill is submitted by a House member. This introduction process begins 60 days prior to the start of the session.

Made

The House has 150 MEMBERS.

The Senate has 31 MEMBERS.

Texas Legislative Sessions are held biennially for 140 DAYS.

Legislation can be orginated in either house and move through this process in either direction. Many times identical versions of a bill will be introduced by legislators in both houses (known as Companion Bills).

Indicates an opportunity for bill failure.

Senate COMMITTEE

The SENATE

LEGISLATION BECOMES A LAW

A bill can be signed by the Governor in the presence of the House OR it may remain unsigned. In either case, the bill becomes a law after 90 days, unless otherwise stipulated.

Lobbyists help an association to research, track and advocate for or against any particular piece of

They advise the advantage or disadvantage it proposes to your special insterest group and create opportunities for involvment in the legislative process.

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!

ACROSS GENERATIONS: AMAZING CONNECTIONS IN TEXAS H.S. GIRLS BASKETBALL

BY DENISE SMITH YANKE retired basketball coach

It’s playoff time in Texas for both boys’ and girls’ basketball. I would like to share some history of what it was like approximately seventy years ago. In 1955, the UIL (University Interscholastic League) state girls’ basketball tournament was expanded to three divisions, conference AA, A, and B. Dimmitt walked off with its second straight conference A title; and for the second year in a row, defeated Granbury in the finals, 62-44. Did you know that they played for third place? Earlier in the tournament, Dimmitt had defeated Goldthwaite 49-40 and Granbury defeated Geroge West 64-51, then Goldthwaite went on to win the third-place spot 39-35. Leta Rains (Andrews) from Granbury was named to this all-state tournament as a guard. The year before in 1954, my cousin, Mary Ann Witt (Stamps) along with Leta Rains (Andrews), both earned All-State honors when their schools played again in the finals with Dimmitt winning 66-60. I was born the following year.

In 1972, the girls’ state basketball tournament was to be another milestone for girls’ basketball. The Claude Mustangettes became the first team in history to qualify for the state tournament a tenth time and the first to win six state championships. (In both Class B & A) Class B had Huckaby defeating Follett 68-63 in the semi-finals. (Huckaby defeated my team, the Poolville Monarchs (the lions, not the butterflies), in the regional finals 55-49- I used up all my fouls and fouled out with seven minutes to go). The other two teams, Round Top-Carmine and Neches would be battling it out in their semi-final game.

It took a second-half comeback by Round Top-Carmine to go ahead of a previously unbeaten Neches, 52-50. Neches’ Marilyn Barrett had 25 points, and Brenda Jones had 18 points, with Round Top’s Nina Marburger with 30 points. Neches suffered their first loss of the season under the coaching of Lee Snider. RTC would go on to win 54-48 against Huckaby, giving them their second straight title.

Eighteen years later in 1973, Leta Rains Andrews would return to the state tournament (as a coach) to coach her Comanche team. (Leta Andrews is the winningest high school girls coach in the country, 1416355) During this time, only one team would come out of a district to continue in post-season play until 198283, when two teams would advance to the playoffs. Girls played what we called 6-man or “3 on 3” basketball with the guards on one end playing defense and the other end was made up of forwards on offense with neither one crossing the mid-court line.

In 1973 and years before, class B division/ classification had eight teams (regional 2 & 3) or six teams (regional 1 & 4) making it to the regional tournament for a two-day tournament and "winner take all". Class B teams also had to play two games in Austin in one day at the state tournament. The semi-final games were 8:30 am & 10 am on Saturday, followed by the championship game at 8:30 pm that night. No other classification of schools had to play two games in one day. Neches would return to Austin’s Gregory Gymnasium with only one loss from 1972 and only one during the season against Follett in their semi-final game. For most of this game, Neches was playing “catch up” and did not take the lead until the fourth quarter, 36-35. The fourth quarter ended

with a score of 45-45 to send the game into overtime with Neches never trailing and coming out on top with a score of 54-52. My hometown, Poolville, made our first appearance in the state tournament under the coaching of Charles Perry, going up against the 1972 state champion, Round Top-Carmine. Poolville defeated RTC 60-42. The championship game was a battle. Poolville’s Debbie Canafax scored 34 points (I was on the guard end) with Neches’ balanced attack from Brenda Jones with 23 points and Marilyn Barrett with 19 points. Neches went ahead late in the third quarter after the game had been tied nine times in the first half. Neches (34-1) went on to win the state championship over Poolville (37-3) 49-45.

Fast forward to 2007 – I was coaching in Cooper, Texas (pronounced “coop” er), with it being my daughter, Lacey’s senior year as a Doggette. Having played basketball all four years for her mother, she applied and was honored to receive the Texas Basketball Coaches Association (TABC) Brenda Jones-Carter Memorial Scholarship. Then in 2013, Lacey (currently the JV coach at Denton Braswell), while working as a graduate assistant for the women’s basketball team at Lamar University under the coaching of Larry Tidwell, attended the Texas High School Coaches Association summer clinic, where I introduced her to Johnnie Carter (Executive Director of TABC). I wanted Coach Carter and Lacey to meet since she was the recipient of his late wife’s scholarship. Not knowing or having met Brenda Jones Carter, I wanted to know more about her. What a small world. Not until this time after talking with Coach Carter, did I realize that his wife, Brenda Jones-Carter was on the team that we played and was defeated by in the state championship. I may not have ever met her,

but I definitely knew who she was when I found out she was from Neches. Brenda went on to play at East Texas Baptist University and I went on to play at Stephen F. Austin State University. After playing at ETBU and then graduating from Texas Southern University, Brenda went into the banking business until her untimely death at the age of 47 from an aneurysm. Brenda Jones and Johnnie Carter met in college and were married for 18 years. Even though I only knew of Brenda on the basketball court, we had several similarities. We were both born in February, Brenda being a week older, she was a “Jones”, I was a “Smith”, and we both have the same middle name, Diane. Brenda was a very giving person who loved basketball and people. Along with loving the Lord, two good things to love. Being from small towns, playing basketball was a big deal and great entertainment for the town, but today we all should realize that it is more important who you are rather than what you are. So many things and people we love will probably be lost or go away but, in the end, or later in life, hopefully, the love and memories return in other ways.

"I shall walk this way but only once. Therefore, whatever good I might do let me do it now, for I shall never walk this way again."

Coach Carter, enjoy the upcoming high school playoffs and since you have never seen Brenda play, enjoy the 1973 UIL State Championship Game – (on YouTube). https://youtu.be/GGwl3p14urA

Information from the book, Texas SchoolGirl Basketball, by James McLemore, people, and newspaper articles.

ANKLE SPRAINS

By Isabel Alvarado MS, LAT, ATC

A sprain is a term used to describe when ligaments are stretched or torn. Ligaments are a type of connective tissue in the body that connect bones to bones. There are three types of ankle sprains: medial, lateral, and high.

A medial ankle sprain refers to injury to the inside (medial) of the ankle where the deltoid ligaments are located. Medial ankle sprains occur when the ankle rolls outward, also called eversion.

Lateral ankle sprains occur when the ankle rolls inward (also called inversion) and injures the ATFL (anterior talofibular ligament), and/or CFL (calcaneofibular ligament), and/or PTFL (posterior talofibular ligament).

High ankle sprains occur when the foot and lower leg are forcefully rotated and the syndesmosis ligaments in the ankle are injured. Syndesmosis is a type of joint where two bones (in this case the tibia and fibula) are held together by strong connective tissue and ligaments. Because of the location, this type of sprain usually takes longer to heal than a medial or lateral ankle sprain.

Red Flags To Look Out For: Using the Ottawa Ankle Rules (OAR) can help determine whether or not you need to get an x-ray. If these 3 rules apply to you, go to the ER or see a doctor:

● Pain and/or point tenderness when touching the back edge of the outside ankle bone (fibula)

● Pain and/or point tenderness when touching the back edge of the inside ankle bone (tibia)

● Inability to walk 4 steps immediately after the injury

References

Bachmann LM, Kolb E, Koller MT et-al. Accuracy of Ottawa ankle rules to exclude fractures of the ankle and mid-foot: systematic review. BMJ. 2003;326 (7386): 417.

Athletic Trainer at Dell Children's

LIGHT GLADIATOR ATK | Used in 28 of 32 NFL locker rooms and trusted by elite players across the league.

NFLPA-NFL “Recommended Helmet”| Achieving the highest safety rating category for the 2024-25 season.

Ranked Among the Best | #2 all-purpose helmet, #3 overall by Virginia Tech, and up to 40% lighter than competitors at just 3.5 lbs.

LIGHT SS1 (Flag Headgear) | #1 Virginia Tech flag headgeat with perfect 0.0 score

MENTION CODE TEXASCOACH FOR EXCLUSIVE PRICING.

OR QUESTIONS

SEVEN SECRETS TO COACHING HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS ron

Baseball Coach www.kretzfiles.com

coach to win in life, not just a game!

I spent 30 years as a high school coach in the great state of Texas. Along the way, I met many great people, helped numerous students, and created many wonderful memories. I was fortunate enough to work on many successful teams/programs. When ready, I took what I learned and led my programs. I worked in six different school districts and held positions from freshman coach to quarterback coach to offensive coordinator to head football coach. I was also a head baseball coach (19 years) and did a year or two of powerlifting, track, and basketball.

I now serve as a high school assistant principal. I have time now to reflect on why coaching is important and how much a coach can impact a student’s life. So, I sat down and wrote a list of seven topics that I believed helped me as a coach.

Here are the 7 Secrets to Coaching High School Sports:

Career Secret #1: Cultivating a Passion to Serve

Coaching high school sports is more than just teaching skills and winning games—it’s about serving others. Every aspect of your role, from sharing your knowledge and expertise to dedicating your time and energy, reflects a commitment to service. Whether you’re planning practices, teaching lessons, managing travel, or handling less glamorous tasks like laundry, coaching is, at its core, a service-driven profession.

But make no mistake—serving doesn’t mean catering to every whim like a hotel concierge or a made-to-order restaurant. A coach’s service comes with high expectations and firm demands. Why? Because instilling discipline, accountability, and resilience in your players is a powerful way to prepare them for life’s realities.

Why Service Matters for Longevity

A passion for service is the cornerstone of a fulfilling and enduring coaching career. Players will come and go—they were there before you and they will be there long after you leave. But your ability to impact their lives, and make a meaningful difference, is what creates a lasting legacy. When your focus is on service, you can leave behind not just wins and losses, but a collection of positive memories and life lessons that resonate for years.

Key Takeaways for Coaches

• Arrive with Purpose: Approach each day with an open mind and a desire to make a positive impact.

• Leave a Legacy: Strive to leave the campus, the team, and the program better than you found them.

At the heart of coaching lies a simple but powerful truth: the greatest measure of success isn’t the scoreboard, but the lives you’ve touched through your passion to serve.

Career Secret #2: Develop and Embrace Your Core Values

Core values are the foundation of any successful coaching career, but developing and living by them

requires intentionality and growth. Here are three critical steps to guide you in cultivating your core values as a coach:

1. Align with Leadership

Before anything else, you must fully embrace the core values and philosophies of your head coach and coordinators. Long-term success in high school sports hinges on respecting the leadership’s decisions and implementing their vision with commitment and enthusiasm. There’s no room for “ifs, ands, or buts.” Your role is to support the program’s overarching goals and ensure a unified message is delivered to your players.

2. Discover and Refine Your Core Values

As a young coach, it’s natural not to have a fully formed set of core values right away. Developing your values takes time and reflection—and they may evolve as you gain experience and grow both personally and professionally. However, start with values that emphasize key attributes like:

• Work Ethic: Model relentless effort in everything you do.

• Loyalty: Show unwavering support for your program and colleagues.

• Commitment: Dedicate yourself to the success of your team and players.

• Time Management: Balance responsibilities effectively and prioritize what matters most.

Over time, your core values will become clearer and serve as a compass for your coaching decisions and actions.

3. Live and Communicate Your Values

Your core values mean little if they aren’t shared and demonstrated. Communicate your expectations

to your players, and most importantly, lead by example. Consistency is key—players will notice if your actions align with your words. To ensure your values are truly making an impact, adopt the principle of “inspect what you expect.” Regularly evaluate whether your team is living up to these standards, and provide guidance when they fall short.

Final Thoughts

Developing and living by core values isn’t just about coaching; it’s about shaping the culture of your program and fostering growth in your players. When your values align with your actions, you not only strengthen your credibility as a coach but also set the stage for a fulfilling, impactful career.

Career Secret #3: Build Meaningful Relationships

If there’s one secret to a long and rewarding coaching career, it’s this: build relationships. Relationships are the glue that holds every part of your professional and personal life together. Here’s how to prioritize and strengthen those connections:

1. Professional Relationships with Supervisors

Start with clear and respectful communication. Read and respond to emails promptly, approach conversations with a professional demeanor, and always fulfill your responsibilities with excellence. Show up where you’re expected to be, and do your job to the best of your ability. Consistency and reliability will earn you the trust and respect of your supervisors over time.

2. Personal Connections with Players

Dedicate time each day to connecting with your players beyond the sport. Ask about their lives, listen to their challenges, and show genuine interest

in who they are as individuals. This is about what you can do for them—not what they can do for you. Remember, you might be the only adult in their lives who listens and cares. That’s a special responsibility and an incredible opportunity to make a difference.

3. Fellowship with Coaching Staff

Coaching is a demanding job, but it’s also a unique fraternity of men and women united by a common cause. Take time during the week to connect with your fellow coaches. This doesn’t mean wild nights out— it’s about meeting in a casual setting, decompressing for an hour, and sharing a few laughs before heading home. These moments of camaraderie are what makes coaching enjoyable and create lifelong bonds.

4. Prioritize Your Family Relationships

Above all, nurture your relationship with your spouse or significant other. Schools, jobs, and seasons will come and go, but your family is your constant. Investing in your “home team” ensures stability and balance in your life. Be intentional about spending quality time together and showing appreciation for their support.

Final Thoughts

At its heart, coaching is about relationships. The stronger they are, the more fulfilling your career— and life—will be. When you make relationships a priority, you create a ripple effect that benefits your team, your staff, your family, and ultimately, yourself.

Career Secret #4: Master the Sport

Never—ever—step into coaching a sport you’re unprepared for. While you don’t need to be as seasoned as the head coach or varsity assistants, you owe it to the players, the head coach, and yourself to do the job to the best of your ability. Preparation is non-negotiable.

How to Prepare

1. Clarify Expectations Early: Before the season starts, meet with the head coach to understand your role. Ask for specific details, examples, and guidance on what’s expected from you.

2. Study the Sport: Dive into videos, read articles, and research techniques and strategies. Knowledge is your most powerful tool, so take the time to strengthen it.

3. Learn the Basics: At a minimum, understand the rules of the game and its fundamental principles. This ensures you can effectively teach and manage your players.

Why Preparation Matters

You’re being paid to coach, which means your effort and expertise are part of the job. Players are counting on you to teach them and prepare them for more advanced competition. Additionally, the head coach is trusting you to help develop the program’s future.

When you take your role seriously, you not only grow as a coach but also enhance the entire program. And if you find yourself struggling, never hesitate to ask for help—learning and growing are part of the process.

Final Thoughts

Coaching is a responsibility that requires dedication, preparation, and humility. By understanding the sport, you position yourself to lead effectively, support your players, and earn the trust of your head coach. Always strive to coach to the best of your ability, because when you’re prepared, everyone benefits.

Career Secret #5: Master Coaching the Fundamentals

At its core, coaching is about teaching the fundamentals. Every practice, every drill, and every game hinges on the basics. To be an effective coach, you must prioritize fundamentals daily and ensure your players not only understand them but can execute them with confidence.

The Essentials of Coaching Fundamentals

1. Teach Clearly: Players need to hear, see and do

to truly learn.

• Verbally explain what you expect in simple, clear terms.

• Demonstrate the skill or technique yourself. If you’re unable to, enlist a skilled player to model it.

• Create opportunities for players to practice the skill repeatedly until it becomes instinctual.

2. Be Patient: Patience is a cornerstone of effective coaching.

• If a player isn’t getting it, pause and reflect— did you teach the concept effectively? Break it down further or try a different approach.

• Understand that some players may never master certain skills, but your job is to develop them to the best of their abilities.

• Remember, even the least skilled player could be crucial one day due to injuries, eligibility issues, or roster changes. Coach everyone up, no matter where they start.

3. Repetition Builds Mastery: Fundamentals form the foundation of any successful program.

• Select a few key drills that directly prepare your team for success and run them consistently.

• Repetition builds confidence and muscle memory, making fundamental skills second nature when it counts the most.

Why Fundamentals Matter

Great teams are built on a mastery of the basics. A strong foundation in fundamentals enables players to handle high-pressure situations and execute advanced strategies. As a coach, your commitment to teaching the fundamentals isn’t just about winning games—it’s about instilling discipline, focus, and a work ethic that transcends the sport.

Final Thoughts

Coaching fundamentals require patience, clarity, and consistency. When you prioritize these principles, you set your players and your program up for longterm success. After all, championships may be built on strategy, but they’re won with fundamentals.

Career Secret #6: Model the Expectations You Set

As a coach, your actions set the tone for your players, colleagues, and community. To earn respect and build trust, you must lead by example in every aspect of your life.

1. Set the Standard with Your Behavior

Your players will look to you as a role model, so demonstrate the same values and habits you expect from them:

• Be On Time: Punctuality shows respect for others and sets a disciplined tone.

• Do What’s Right: Make integrity your guiding principle in all decisions.

• Give Your Best Effort: Show the same commitment you demand from your players.

2.

Exemplify Professionalism in the Classroom

Your role extends beyond the field. In the classroom:

• Be Present and Prepared: Arrive on time and ready to engage with your students.

• Dress Professionally: Avoid overly casual attire like shorts or sweatpants; appearance matters.

• Teach Actively: Move beyond worksheets and deliver meaningful, interactive lessons.

3. Represent Yourself Well in the Community

Remember, your actions off campus are just as important as those on it. Communities have high expectations for their coaches, and social media amplifies visibility.

• Be Mindful of Local Norms: Some districts may tolerate adult beverages, while others may not. Learn the expectations of your community and act accordingly.

• Stay Aware: In today’s world, everyone has a camera. Your actions can quickly become public, so always represent yourself and your program with integrity.

Final Thoughts

Modeling expectations isn’t just about earning respect—it’s about embodying the qualities you hope to instill in your players. Whether on the field, in the classroom, or out in the community, strive to be the example others aspire to follow.

Career Secret #7: Champion MultiSport Athletes

Encourage your athletes to participate in multiple sports during their high school years. This short window of time offers unique opportunities for growth, friendship, and unforgettable experiences— let them make the most of it.

1. Prioritize the Athlete’s Experience

High school is about more than just excelling in one sport. By playing multiple sports, athletes:

• Build new friendships.

• Learn from different coaching styles.

• Create a broader range of lasting memories.

Ask yourself: Do you want him to specialize in what he can do for you or for what you can do for him?

Do you want the kid to specialize to help you win more games? If you are, that is the wrong answer. The player must be a good athlete so let him enjoy all sports (if they want), help all teams, and create memories for a lifetime.

Don’t rob the player of the experience of playing another sport.

Shift your mindset to focus on the player’s best interests, not just your own.

2. Understand the Challenges of Larger Schools

Multi-sport participation is a necessity in small schools. However, in larger schools, where specialization pressures are higher, it’s even more crucial for coaches to support athletes who want to explore multiple sports.

3. Don’t Penalize or Discourage

Never harp on or penalize an athlete for their involvement in other sports. Selfish behavior alienates athletes and limits their opportunities. Instead, embrace and promote the well-rounded development of all athletes. Encourage participation in multiple sports.

4. Use the Other Career Secrets to Support Athletes

Apply the principles from the previous six secrets to help your athletes manage their schedules and commitments. When you coach with patience, flexibility, and a service-oriented mindset; you’ll find ways to support multi-sport ambitions.

Final Thoughts

Encouraging multi-sport participation isn’t just good for the athlete—it’s good for your program, your school, and the culture of the high school. When you put the athlete’s best interests first, you create an environment where they can thrive on and off the field.

In Conclusion

These are my Seven Secrets to Coaching High School Sports for 30 years or at least these seven mean the most to me.

The most important part of coaching is to:

• Know why you coach – this will make you feel like you never worked a day in your life (unless you did old-fashioned 2-a-day – that was work).

• Know where you coach – it is important to know the community you coach in, some things might be accepted in one area and frowned upon in another.

• Know who you coach – these are all someone else’s children you are coaching. Be demanding and set crystal clear expectations, but don’t give the kid a reason to talk poorly about you or the program.

• Know what you coach – you coach kids, never forget that!

Coaching is the last line of defense in producing quality men and women for our future. Don’t let them down. Coaching is one of the few professions where we do not allow students to take shortcuts or make excuses. Coaching demands and teaches discipline, a work ethic, and teamwork. NOWHERE ELSE IS THIS TAUGHT! DON’T LET THE KIDS DOWN.

Only one coach can win a championship, but we can all win a life. How can a coach help a student win in life?

Consider implementing these 7 Secrets to a Long Coaching Career and see what happens.

1. Cultivate a Passion to Serve

2. Develop and Embrace Your Core Values

3. Build Meaningful Relationships

4. Master the Sport You Coach

5. Master Coaching the Fundamentals

6. Model the Expectations You Set

7. Encourage Multi-sport Athletes

In the words of Brian Kight, “Doesn’t Matter . . . Get Better.”

If you would like more coaching thoughts, I recommend you subscribe to:

• Daily Discipline is a daily email sent to you from Brian Kight who worked with Urban Meyer in E+R=O.

• Daily Coach is a new daily email sent to your inbox with great quotes, readings, and ideas for all coaches.

• Atomic Habits is a weekly email from the NY Times bestseller book Atomic Habits by James Clear (excellent read).

PUT US IN YOUR PUT US IN YOUR STARTING LINEUP STARTING LINEUP

PRESENTING SPONSOR OF THE COACH OF THE WEEK

CANE’S FOR THE WIN

REBEL TRIPLE OPTION

BY JOSH RITCHEY & TASCOSA OFFENSIVE STAFF (DEREK GALT [ASSISTANT HEAD COACH/SLOTS], DALE DAVIS [Q/B], MAX FRICK

[OL], CHRISTIAN CAFLISCH [WR], KING DOERUE [ASSISTANT SLOTS], MOISES SANDOVAL [OL])

Tascosa High School has run the FlexBone offense for 12 years. Before the FlexBone, we were a Prostyle offense running Power, Inside Zone, and Mid Zone, with a Drop Back game. We moved to the FlexBone because we were in the “Little Southwest Conference” District with Permian, Odessa High, Midland Legacy, Midland High, and San Angelo Central. We always have had skill kids that could compete, but at the time we did not have Offensive Linemen that could consistently block the Defensive Linemen in this district. In the past 10 years in this offense, Tascosa has had 17 play-off wins, with 3 District Championships, 9 Bi-District Championships, 5 Area Championships, 2 Regional Championships, and 1 Quarter-Final Championship. In 12 years of running the FlexBone offense, we have had 48,045 yards rushing and 565 rushing touchdowns. In 145 games played in the FlexBone offense, we average 331.3 yards rushing per game. Our version of the FlexBone offense is blend of influences of various collegiate and high school programs from all over the nation. We have taken techniques, schemes, and plays from each of these coaches to create the Rebel FlexBone.

In this article, we will focus on our Triple Option Play. This is the first play that is installed every year, and the play that we “hang our hat on”. Although there are many fronts that this play has to adjust to we will discuss the play verses a 6-1 defense which is the front we install the play first. Before we start, it is a must that we discuss the hierarchy of calling a play based on how a defense is trying to defend the Triple Option. We have base rules for the Triple Option that we can run out of multiple formations; however, we also have “Tags” that we can incorporate based on how the defense is fitting the three attacks in the Triple Option. These Tags only change up to three players base rules. Therefore, during the course of the game, we follow these four standards in attacking the defense (based on Wheaton’s way of calling the Triple):

• Rule

• Formation

• Tags

• Combination of the three

If we are having success running the Triple Option with our base rules, we will continue to call Triple Option. However, if a team is creating problems for our Triple Option, we will then start to look at different formations to try and gain an advantage by the defense adjustment. Generally speaking, when we get in another formation most defenses will keep the box the same but adjust their secondary. If we cannot find an advantage in our variant formations, then we will move to Tags. As previously stated, a Tag will only affect up to a max of three players. Everyone else will keep their base rule the same if the Tag does not talk to them. Finally, we will use a combination of the three to attack the defense. That means we may use a variant formation with base rules or with a Tag.

When discussing the Triple Option, it is important to understand that this is similar to 3 on 2 in basketball. The quarterback has two reads, which will dictate to him which of the three players will be the ball carrier. His reads are first down lineman “B Gap” outside for the dive or #1 and the next man out for the pitch read or #2. The third person would be the playside safety.

Here are the rules for each position, as well as the technique that they use to execute their rule:

• PST:

► Rule: block playside inside linebacker (PSILB)

► Technique: Veer (six-inch pigeon step with inside foot, hand trade outside hand while second step on the toes of the defender while eyes on PSILB then run “Y” if no threat)

• PSG:

► Rule: Base the DT

► Technique: step with near shade foot and base the DT

• C:

► Rule: Base to second level

► Technique: step with playside foot, shaving off the DT, and climb to second level

• BSG:

► Rule: Scoop

► Technique: Power Veer (six-inch step with inside foot while second step is on the toes of the defender leading with the top of your shoulder working low to high to the defenders inside shoulder)

• BST:

► Rule: Scoop

► Technique: flat first step, second step crossover, keep shoulders square as possible, third step is vertical, aiming point is the inside thigh board of the DL inside

• PS Slot:

► Rule: Block Bandit (Bandit = the CB, OLB, or Safety)

► Technique: push off inside foot, rolling the knee, the outside foot takes a 60-degree angle, run through the defender five yards from your alignment

• BS Slot:

► Rule: Pitch man

► Technique: leave on the “R” of “Ready”, roll your outside knee, pushing off your outside foot, aiming at the hand of the B Back, after the third step your angle changes to the feet of the B Back.

* You should be behind the mesh making a line with the Q and the B, attack the 10-yard target and turn up when the Q turns up

• PS WR:

► Rule: Block deep defender

► Technique: come off ball and square the corner if the defense is forcing with the safety, when your

4-5 yards away break down and buzz feet. Fast feet without crossing your feet, keeping a good base for collision. At contact punch with both arms and explode through the hips.

* If the defense is forcing with the CB, then take an angle to the Safety and stalk the safety using the same technique.

• BS WR:

► Rule: Block BS Safety to BS CB

► Technique: release flat and take an angle to cut the backside safety off gaining position and stalk using the same technique as the PS WR.

* If the backside safety is playing hard over the top and you cannot gain position, turn back to the BSCB and stalk

• B:

► Rule: Mesh with the Q

► Technique: heels at five yards from the ball with weight on hand. six-inch step at inside leg of PSG, mesh with the Q on your third step with inside foot back, take your belly button to the ball,

* eyes on the “Read Key” for “A Gap” or “B Gap” cut

* On the second level “Feel Key”, react to the defense’s movement

* Always get positive yards with six points of contact on ball in a crowd

• Q:

► Rule: know who #1 and #2 is

► Technique: push off backside foot, force the foot to pivot and playside leg to move into the mesh zone, step backside foot to “Find Balance” with toe to instep stagger

* Ball should be extended and deeper than playside foot before feet come set, eyes glued to #1 shoulders, decide pull or give based on #1’s actions

* If pull, pull violently to leave no question with B, press off front foot to gain depth with back foot, crossover step, drive down hill while switching eyes to #2’s inside shoulder, decide pitch or run

* If pitch ball should be positioned between chin and nipples, if #2 attacks quickly “Sit and Pitch”, if #2 is slow drive at his inside shoulder to make him react. He is always wrong, be decisive on your reads.

This play is meant to put pressure on the defense and make them be disciplined for an entire game. The other advantage that we have is that we practice this play everyday throughout the season and spring practices, while defenses have one week to implement their fits. We feel that this gives us an advantage against the defenses that we face. Also, by changing formations or tags, we can manipulate defenses and how they choose to “fit” our potential three ball carriers. We also can use Tags to change who our reads are which creates added pressure for the defense. The philosophy is that the defense cannot be right; and if we execute, then we will be successful.

WINTER STARS & SHADOWS

BY KELLY LOZADA LUBBOCK MONTEREY HS

I clicked on the latest edition of the THSCA weekly e-newsletter, and I was reading the headlines about all the great things happening with coaches and kids across the state. It made me think about all the press and headlines I have gotten to read over the last four years as a coach at Monterey High School, home of the Plainsmen, and home of the ESPN #1 women’s basketball recruit in the country, Aailyah Chavez.

I have been the varsity volleyball coach at MHS since 2015. Basketball and volleyball at Monterey have a great relationship. We share kids, we share gym space, and our locker rooms are right next door to each other. Head basketball coach, Jill Schneider, is our coordinator, mentor, and friend. Anyway, I decided to take a few minutes to answer the question I get asked in the street, in the halls at coaching school, in the airport, and at church - Tell me about Aailyah Chavez? Is she really THAT good? Where is she going to go play?

Guys, she is REALLY T H A T good. As of this article, she has over 4400 career points! She has critics and opponents, but the truth is, the work ethic, leadership, heart, intelligence, and talent in that one is legit. I tell people all the time, we share a gym; and in all my years of knowing her, I have never once heard her say anything negative about anyone. Literally, no one. She shoots around, and I have never heard her say to someone who misses a shot, “aww you’re trash,” NOTHING. I am not saying she is Saint Aailyah, but I am saying she has brought a spotlight to our school, our community, our city, and the girls game of basketball; and she

shoulders it with dignity, grace, and poise beyond what most adults could do.

So, what’s it like to operate in the shadow of such a bright star? Things here are done right. When we are in-season, Coach Schneider respects me enough, and is so professional, to ask me if it’s okay to take some of the varsity kids to practice in front of some of the biggest D1 program scouts who come through. Honestly, I could say, No, we are preparing for an important match. OR, I can look at the big picture of what is best for those particular kids. Since we have big program scouts in the gym, this is an opportunity for them to be seen. Now, maybe UT and LSU aren’t handing out offers to all the supporting players, but I know coaches talk. If they don’t have a spot for them, maybe a coach in their area is looking, and these scouts can suggest the 6’4” Johnson kid from Monterey.

I don’t want to take away any positive exposure opportunities for our kids. Even with regards to facilities, if it’s volleyball season, we keep the big gym for our practices; and the scouts and stars go to the back gym for offseason practices.

All of the local, area, and national sports outlets have done a lot to spotlight our local hero. Chavez shines across all her summer showcases, national competitions, etc. while award, after award, and banner, after banner, roll in. We get some attention and respect from local media during our season and I feel like they are fair and appropriate.

Does jealousy or envy creep in? Honestly, I am happy for our coaches, our teams, our students, our teachers, our community, and our city to get the chance to celebrate one of our own in such a big way. I used to tell my kids growing up that sometimes it’s not your day. Some days you get all the good treats and blessings and attention, some days you don’t. Right now, it’s Aailyah’s time. It’s girls’ basketball time.

At the end of the day, I believe success breeds success. I believe that when my players are in the stands and sidelines cheering for our girls or boys team success, that it makes them want more from their own experience. The want, or desire, for big

goals and dreams can motivate them to push for their own flowers one day, if you will.

So standing in the shadow of the brightest star I’ve seen in my school, in my 22 years of coaching, I could shrink back in the darkest corner of that shadow and be envious or complain that the light isn’t on my sport. However, I choose to be proud of the person, celebrity, and student-athlete Chavez is. I choose to retweet the greatness, repost the accolades, and be genuinely happy for the success that came, that is, and is to come for our kids. Go Plainsmen!

P.S. I didn’t answer where she is going to play. That’s because she hasn’t announced that decision yet. As a Red Raider myself, I’d love to see her stay home. But, wherever she goes, I will be cheering for her, 100%.

Photos Courtesy of Tim Algate

VIDEO SCOREBOARD FOOTBALL

Fire up athletes, fans, and sponsors with a scoring and entertainment system from Watchfire. We engineer and build our own football scoreboards from the ground up. That's why our videoboards outhustle and outlast, making your program shine season after season.

Co - op pricing Marketing tools

Adver tising par tner s

Coach’s Checklist:

No Waiting

Shorten

Reliable In-Game Video Replay

• Analyze plays in the coaches’ booth

• Use our favorites and data to optimize your halftime strategy

• Videos are stored locally on iPads, allowing you to easily watch in the locker room and on the bus ride home

“SkyCoach allows our staff to see what is happening in between series and make needed in-game adjustments on the fly.”

Ian Nichols, Mill Valley Assistant Coach

Struggling with your current replay system? It’s NOT too late to sign up with SkyCoach!

Simplify ticketing with HomeTown.

The all-in-one digital ticketing solution that offers more – empowering schools, organizations, and event organizers to streamline ticketing and event management.

• STREAMLINED DIGITAL TICKETING

• INTEGRATED SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING

• EFFORTLESS FUNDRAISING

• RELIABLE SUPPORT