Texas Coach - March 2023 - Volume LXVII No. 7

Everything you need. All in one FREE app.

sportsYou is the best FREE communication platform for districts, schools and teams. Streamline and customize the way you engage with coaches, players and parents.

sportsYou enhances safety for our athletes and is a great communication tool with coaches, kids and parents. It is 100% mandated for all our coaches and kids throughout all of Frisco ISD.

GRACE MCDOWELL, FRISCO ISD

thsca OFFICERS & BOARD OF DIRECTORS - 2022-23

TEXAS COACH - (ISSN 0040-4241) - Copyright 2022

Texas High School Coaches’ Association, Inc.

PUBLISHER

TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL COACHES ASSOCIATION, INC.

PUBLISHING/EDITORIAL OFFICES: 2553 N INTERSTATE 35 FRONTAGE RD SAN MARCOS, TX 78666-5924 web: www.thsca.com

Subscriptions: Annual subscription to TEXAS COACH for members of the Texas High School Coaches Association is $20.00, which is included in the $70.00 membership dues. For non-members: one-year subscription price is $30.00; two-year subscription price is $50.00; Foreign: one-year subscription price is $50.00. Single copies are $5.00 per current volume. TEXAS COACH is published monthly except in June, July, and August and is dated the first of the publication month, although it is mailed around the 10th of the publication month.

Change of address: Request for change of address must reach us 30 days before the date of issue with which it is to take effect. Duplicate copies cannot be sent to replace those undelivered through failure to send advance notice. Email change of address notice to admin@ thsca.com or members can go online and make the change in your member portal profile at www.thsca.com.

Periodicals Postage Paid at San Marcos, TX & additional entries. “All rights reserved”. (USPS 540-600).

POSTMASTER Send address change to:

TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL COACHES ASSOCIATION 2553 N INTERSTATE 35 FRONTAGE RD SAN MARCOS, TX 78666-5924

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 Social Media & Marketing

KAYCI COHEN kaycicohen@thsca.com

Director of Exhibits & Sponsorships

MOLLY FLY mollyfly@thsca.com

Director of Membership

ALLIE HERRMANN allieherrmann@thsca.com

SHERYL HONEYCUTT sherylhoneycutt@thsca.com

Director of Finance & Accounting

GORDON MACKEY gordonmackey@thsca.com

Director of Hotels & Hospitality

CHELSEA MILLER chelseamiller@thsca.com

Director of Public Relations & Awards

TYLER WATTS tylerwatts@thsca.com

BOARD OF DIRECTORS COMMITTEES for 2022-23:

Finance: *John King, Kendall Miller, Mark Torres, Sam Wells, Lee Wiginton

Bylaws: *Adam Cummings, Chad Dunnam, Charley Drum, Ricklan Holmes, Jeff Rayburn, Danny Servance

Ethics: Richard Bacon, Kevin Crane, Robert Flores, Dave Henigan, *Carlos Lynn, Fred Staugh

Policy: Shane Anderson, Jerry Carpentier, Leo Mireles, Aaron Roan, *Grady Rowe, Amanda Wolf-Schramm

Magazine: Matt Lovorn, *David Malesky, Lance Moffett, Jason Wilson, James Williams, Jerod Womack

Hall of Honor: *Ronnie Gage, Johnny Taylor, Dub Farris, Gary Joseph *Denotes Chair

Director-Elects & Alternates:

DIRECTOR-ELECTS

Region 1 – Chip Darden, Lubbock Cooper; Region 2 – Aaron Roan, Abilene Cooper; Region 3 – John Settle, Sunnyvale; Region 4 – Clint Hartman, Midland Legacy; Region 5 – Shaun McDowell, Foster; Region 6 – Todd Quick, Lufkin; Region 7 – Leo Mireles, Laredo LBJ; Region 8 – Juan Morales, Jr., SA Sotomayor

1ST ALTERNATES

Region 1 – Todd Winfrey, Canyon; Region 2 – Sterling Doty, Stephenville; Region 3 – Marvin Sedberry, Jr., Terrell; Region 4 – Jeff Ellison, Odessa Permian; Region 5 – BJ Gotte, Pearland; Region 6 – Chris Cochran, Lindale; Region 7 – Trea Stevens, Mathis; Region 8 – Joe Hubbard, East Central

2nd ALTERNATES

Region 1 – DJ Mann, Coronado; 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 – Reuben Farias, La Joya; Region 8 – Eddie Salas, San Antonio Harlan

matt lovorn region 1 - Stratford

adam cummings region 1 - west plains

john king Past-Pres - Longview

kendall miller Pres-elect - emerson

Lee Wiginton President - Allen carlos lynn

- crowley

chad dunnam region 1 - Amarillo mark torres region 4 - pebble hills danny servance region 4 - ellison richard bacon region 3 - desoto

2022-2023 THSCA ADVISORY COMMITTEES

ATHLETIC DIRECTORS

R-1 Chris Koetting, Canadian

R-2 Russell Lucas, Sweetwater

R-3 Seth Stinton, Melissa

R-4 Rusty Purser, Greenwood

R-5 *John Snelson, Dickinson

R-6 Don Drake, Ennis

R-7 Rob Davies, Harlingen

R-8 Stan Laing, Northside

AQUATICS

R-1 *Trey Hayes, Lubbock

R-2 Casey Pacheco, Abl. Wylie

R-3 Eric Vogan, Texas High

R-4 Michael Waldmann, Andrews

R-5 Robert Kelly, Sam Rayburn

R-6 Daniel Gonzalez, Longview

R-7 Hector Castaneda, Harl. South

R-8 Kristin Libardoni, 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 Eric Martinez, Mathis

R-8 Tom Alfieri, SA Churchill

At-Large *Chans Chapman, SA Reagan

BOYS BASKETBALL

R-1 Jason Pillion, Amarillo

R-2 *C.J. Villegas, San Angelo Central

R-3 Ty Tabor, Krum

R-4 Jason Archibald, Wink

R-5 Danny Russell, Katy

R-6 Jake Russ, Franklin

R-7 Sean Armstrong, G. Portland

R-8 Brad Lacey, SA Churchill

At-Large Richard Flores, Cy-Falls

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 Amber Wiley, Tyler

R-7 Clarissa Arredondo, McAllen Mem.

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 Calley Conner, Wylie

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

At-Large Scott Hippensteel, Lockhart

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

R-1 Ray Baca, Canyon

R-2 Loy Triana, Burkburnet

R-3 *Susan Bailey, Highland Park

R-4 Corina Marruto, Del Valle

R-5 Jim Darcey, Katy

R-6 Edward DeLaCruz, Waxahachie

R-7 Michael Villareal, Zapata

R-8 Rachel Freeman, SA Reagan

FOOTBALL

R-1 Jason Richards, Muleshoe

R-2 Sterling Doty, Stephenville

R-3 *Joe Castillo, Little Elm

R-4 Ruben Rodriguez, Eastlake

R-5 Rick Lafavers, Ridge Point

R-6 Keylon Kincade, Winona

R-7 Brent Davis, G. Portland

R-8 Alan Haire, Chaparrall

At-Large Clint Fuller, Kilgore

BOYS GOLF

R-1 Cord Wilburn, Lub. Cooper

R-2 Jason Hodges, Stephenville

R-3 Charlie Means, Denison

R-4 Paul Bustamante, Pebble Hills

R-5 Clayton Brady, Hous. Memorial

R-6 Brant Bennett, Midlothian Heritage

R-7 Celso Gonzalez, McAllen Mem.

R-8 *Mike Martin, SA Johnson

At-Large Paige Martin, Southlake

GIRLS GOLF

R-1 Cathy Palmer, Lubbock

R-2 OPEN

R-3 Kerry Gabel, FM Marcus

R-4 Shawn Trousdale, Ysletta

R-5 *Angela Chancellor, Kingwood

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 Chris Bryant, Midland Legacy

R-5 Ben Powell, Bellville

R-6 *Cashan Clark, Midlothian Heritage

R-7 OPEN

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 *Cecilia Kellar, Odessa

R-5 Evelyn Torres, Ridge Point

R-6 Gerald Slovacek, Midlo. Heritage

R-7 Juan Luna, Los Fresnos

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 *David Denham, Lub. Corondao

R-2 Mark Hathorn, Abil. Wylie

R-3 Carrie Castleberry, Vernon

R-4 Sylvia Sims, Frisco Heritage

R-5 Daniel Marshall, A&M Consol.

R-6 OPEN

R-7 Jeff Davidson, CC Vet. Mem.

R-8 OPEN

At-Large Teri Saunders, Pf. Hendrickson

BOYS TRACK & FIELD

R-1 Jon Murphy, Stratford

R-2 Andy Howard, Brownwood

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 Keith Randle, SA Johnson

At-Large *Will McCrary, Rockwall

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 Angela Moon, Tyler

R-7 Stacy Zamzow, Goliad

R-8 *Karmen Sanders, RR McNeil

VOLLEYBALL

R-1 Kelly Lozada, Lubbock Monterey

R-2 Shay Douglas, Stephenville

R-3 Jennifer Chandler, Northwest

R-4 Heather Archibald, Wink

R-5 Pamela McRae, Cypress Park

R-6 Arden Johnson, Troup

R-7 Jess Odem, Goliad

R-8 *Rachel Torvik, SA Reagan

At-Large Jacob Thompson, Leander Rouse

BOYS WRESTLING

R-1 Mark Snow, Lub. Coronado

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 Vet. Mem.

R-8 Kevin Smith, Lake Travis

GIRLS WRESTLING

R-1 Tyler Frausto, Canyon

R-2 OPEN

R-3 *Jessica Fresh, Northwest

R-4 Stephen Scott, EP Franklin

R-5 Nicholas Johnson - Cypress Woods

R-6 OPEN

R-7 Ronald Pratt, Rio Grande City

R-8 Garvin Smith, San Marcos

* DENOTES CHAIR

FROM THE PRESIDENT

THSCA Coaches:

March 2023

Please don’t ever wish away time. I find myself looking forward to things coming up, then I turn around and wonder how two months of 2023 have already come and gone. We’ve had ice storms, time off from school, extra time spent with family, and game schedules squeezed in to make up for lost time. But most importantly, we’ve had two months in the year of 2023 to make a difference in our communities and in the lives of the young people we get to be around on a daily basis. As things continue to speed up, some seasons are coming to an end while others are really starting to take off. This is always a busy time of year for our Texas High School Coaches Association. Coach Martin, Coach West, the THSCA staff, along with our regional directors did a wonderful job of organizing and hosting our regional meeting in February. Thank you to all of you who found a way to attend your regional meeting. I know the storm and make up games caused some to miss their first regional meeting in a very long time.

The THSCEF Leadership Summit in Arlington, on February 27th, was filled with coaches across the state who shared a burning desire to learn more about what it truly means to "Coach Beyond the Game". We were all reminded that memories from our time in this profession doesn’t center around trophies, but rather around the memories created from the experiences and relationships that are formed along our journey. We heard from nine amazing speakers who shared this truth in so many different words and stories.

The renewal for your THSCA Membership for 2023-2024, as well as registration for Coaching School, are both open. Please take time to take care of both of these things now while they are fresh on your mind. As I mentioned last month, this will be another record-setting year in both membership and Coaching School attendance. Thank you for proudly attending Coaching School and for maintaining your membership in the greatest association in the world.

We celebrated our 2023 class of R.O.C.K. mentees at our regional meetings. Later this month, the R.O.C.K. Mentoring Symposium will be held at AT&T Stadium on March 26-27. These mentees will be joining up with mentors from across the state to engage in all aspects of the coaching profession. I have so much respect for the ambassadors of our profession, the MENTORS, who are committing to these R.O.C.K.s. This initiative is the only one of its kind and is vital to the growth of our profession. Coach Martin and Coach West are fully committed to giving the best young coaches in our profession all the tools, guidance, and leadership they need to become the leaders of our profession for years to come.

Congratulations to our basketball state champions. Too many times we get caught up in the excitement of the state championship games themselves and don’t take time to appreciate all the toughness, hard work, competitive battles, and experiences off the court that led to these championships. We all want to win one of these every year, and I’m living testimony that they’re not just given away. Congratulations again to those who earned these titles. I know you are proud of your athletes and community for working together to bring the trophy back to your school!

Please remember that Super Elite Teams, as well as Coach of the Year nominations are still open. Your athletes and your peers deserve to be recognized by our association, so build in a little time to make these nominations. I want to remind athletic directors that you can nominate both head coaches and assistant coaches for Coach of the Year in each sport. Great news for Head Coaches and Assistant Coaches; you can nominate each other!

As we sneak into April, all Soccer and Tennis coaches keep in mind that your Academic All-State nominations are due on April 1st. The THSCA Spring Board Meeting will be held on April 2nd and 3rd. This is a time when our leaders from across the state come together to discuss regional concerns, share ideas and updates from our association, all with the goal in mind to Help Coaches Help Kids. Please reach out to your regional directors if there is something you would like them to bring to the Spring Board Meeting.

In closing, I want to continue to thank you for your commitment to the young people you coach daily. Sometimes I feel myself getting caught up in all the changes that are going on in our profession. Sometimes I waste precious time thinking about what is going on in college sports and the trickle down effect it may have on us. I also allow other negative thoughts to run through my head about various things. I just want to remind you that you are still in the greatest profession on the planet, and that you didn’t get into this profession because you wanted it to be easy or because you wanted to feel appreciated. You got into this profession because you knew that you had been given a gift that needed to be shared with the student-athletes in your communities. Stay focused on the gift that you have to share, and on your athletes who so desperately need you.

MAKE IT A GREAT DAY!

NOW HEAR THIS

COACH TOM RAY ALLEN

Obituary

Coach Tom Allen, 53, passed away on January 27, 2023 after battling Multiple System Atrophy since 2015. He was born in Henrietta, Texas on February 14, 1969, to Theo and Linda Allen. He graduated from Henrietta HS in 1987, where he was a five-sport letterman, President of both the Student Council and Future Homemakers of America, and a member of the National Honor Society. He received his Bachelors of Science in Exercise and Sport Science in 1993 from Texas Tech Univ. Tom was a Christian whose faith in the Lord strengthened and guided him throughout his life.

He began his coaching career in 1994 for the Judson ISD where he coached boys and girls basketball, boys and girls track, girls volleyball, and football at the middle school. From 1997-2004 Tom coached at Dunbar HS in Fort Worth under Head Coach Bob Jones. He served as the Offensive Coordinator for three years, the Defensive Coordinator for four years and was the Head Boys Track Coach for all 7 years. As the head boys track coach during that span at Dunbar, they had numerous regional qualifiers and over 40 state qualifying athletes including medalists and a 4A State Champion 4x100m Relay Team and an overall Team Runner Up at the Texas State Track Meet as well as 2 National Champion Relays in 1999. He was fortunate enough to coach three US Army All-American Football Players and had 20 Track and Field athletes named All-American during this time. In 2004 Tom moved to the Houston area and served as the Assistant Head Coach from 2004-2007 at Aldine HS and qualified for the playoffs in 2006.

In 2007, Tom was hired as the AD/HFC at Sinton HS and served in this capacity for 12 years. During his 12 seasons at Sinton, he compiled an overall record of 106-40 which includes eight district championships, two state semi-finals, two state quarter-finals, and a regional semi-final appearance. In 2008, he was named South Texas Coach of the Year by the Corpus Christi Caller Times. That year Sinton was also named the Texas 3A Army Strong Team of the Year. He was named the district Coach of the Year 8 times. In 2010 & 2014 he was the regional nominee to coach the THSCA All-Star Football South Team. In 2010 he and his staff were chosen to coach the Coastal Bend Al Amin Shriner Football All-Star Classic. Tom also served as a Director for the Coastal Bend Coaches Association from 2009-2018, and served as the President of the CBCA in 2014. In 2015 he was elected to the THSCA Board of Directors where he served as the Region 7 Director-Elect. In 2018, he was inducted into the CBCA Hall of Honor. Coach also had the great fortune to be selected as an Honorary Referee of the UIL State Track Meet in 2019.

Tom was a devoted father, husband, friend, and mentor who was an inspiration to all who met him. To his children, he was a role model that exemplified how to be selfless, patient, hardworking and kind each and every day. He was a beloved and cherished husband, and his family adored him. He developed friendships easily by his wonderful attitude towards life and was able to find a connection with everyone. His sense of humor was unmatched, with his unique sayings, larger than life stories, and infectious laughter. As a coach, he had an unrivaled passion for the game and treated each of his players like family, encouraging them to reach their greatest potential both on and off the field. He taught that “There is nothing you can’t do. There’s no door you can’t open. Because guess what? If it’s locked, you’re gonna knock it down.” He impacted not only the students, but also the coaches, teachers and staff who had the honor of working with him throughout the years. Coach Allen was a mentor to countless educators and coaches, and his legacy will live on through them for many years to come.

Obituary COACH JOHN ELBERT CLARK

Coach John Elbert Clark was born to John William and Lila (Chitwood) Clark on January 10, 1934 in Jacksonville, TX and passed away on January 29, 2023 in Tyler.

Upon graduation from Jacksonville HS, John attended Lon Morris Junior College where he played basketball, receiving undergraduate and Master's degrees at Baylor University. His coaching career took him to Amarillo, Weatherford, Jacksonville and Plano. John treasured realtionships with coaches, players, community members and friends through the years. He was a long time member of First Baptist Church in Plano and the FCA.

As a father, John was a very patient disciplinarian with a gentle and firm hand. He delighted in the joys of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They will cherish memories of driving the tractor, picking up pecans, sharing a Coke, telling stories and reaping the benefits of his custom built projects. And yes, he watched and enjoyed many games.

COACHES RETIRING >>>

Marcus Booker who spent a dozen seasons as a head coach in South Texas announced his retirement from Cotulla on January 24th.

Tim Buchanan who led Aledo to eight state titles as a head coach and three as an athletic director announces his retirement on January 27. He posted a 281-57-3 overall record in 25 seasons as Aledo's head coach.

Roland Gonzalez announced his retirement in November, he spent twenty seasons as a head coach with a 101-108 record with stops at Corpus Christi Ray, Cypress Springs and Victoria East. He spent the last eleven seasons at Victoria East with his best season coming in 2016 when he led East to a 10-4 record and a trip to the regional finals.

Mike Jackson retires after opening a new program in 2019 at Conroe Grand Oaks.

Larry Minter announces his retirement on January 18th. He spent 35 years at Big Sandy and the last 14 as a head coach here he posted a 72-81 record. His best year was a 9-5 mark in 2010.

Jimmy Thompson announces his retirement, he spent 34 seasons as a head coach posting a 259-147 overall record with stints at Apple Springs, Hubbard, Trinity, Garrison, Cleveland, Mount Pleasant, Ganado, Crockett and Dawson. He won a state title in 2003 in Garrison. His son Cash Thompson will be the successor as AD/HFC at Dawson.

COACHES ON THE MOVE >>>

Marte Amarine from DC at Dripping Springs to HFC at Maypearl.

Kyle Atwood from HFC at Alice to HFC at Holliday.

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

Brandy Belk from Asst. AD at UIL to AD at Aledo ISD.

Bo Bryant promoted from DC to AD/HFC at Littlefield.

Jason Calvez from DC/Girls Coord. to AD/HFC at Agua Dulce.

Travis Chrisman from OC at Boerne Champion to AD/HFC at Ingleside.

Jason Cole promoted from OC to HFC at Bangs.

John Fellows former Alpine HFC named HFC at Kermit.

Arturo Garcia from DC at Premont to HFC Falfurrias.

Kevin Johnson named HFC at Lorena.

Robby Jones promoted from OC to HFC at Aledo.

Richard Leonard from OC at Byron Nelson to HFC at Carrollton Ranchview.

Carlos Lynn from HFC at Cedar Hill HS to HFC at Crowley HS.

Brent Mascheck from HC at West Columbia to HFC at Flatonia.

Travis McClain from OC at Celina to AD/HFC at Bogota Rivercrest.

Mark Mullins promoted from OC to HFC at Little River Academy.

Fiacro Ramirez from DC at Canutillo to HFC at Del Rio.

Charlie Reeve from OC at New Caney to HFC at Victoria East.

Carl Robinson promoted from DC to HFC at Dallas Adams.

Melvin Robinson named HFC at Red Oak.

Neil Routledge from HFC at Burges to Assistant AD at El Paso ISD.

Brandon Schmidt from HFC at Prosper to HFC at A&M Consolidated.

Jay Seibert from HFC at Rockport-Fulton to HFC at Sweeny.

Brad Smithey from HFC at West Oso to AD/HFC at Wolfe City.

Shaun Stout promoted from DC to AD/HFC at Trinity.

Kevin Terrier named HFC at Buna.

Cash Thompson promoted to AD/HFC at Dawson.

Beau Trahan from QB Coach at Tulsa to HFC at Tyler Legacy.

Scott Veliz from OC at Naaman Forest to HFC at El Paso Hanks.

Nick Ward from DB Coach at Midlothian to HFC at Cedar Hill.

Cody White from Tennessee, formerly at Denison to HFC at Plano.

Rashaun Woods from HFC in Enid, OK to HFC at Tyler.

To report a coach that is Retiring or On the Move to a new HEAD Coaching Job, (FOR ANY SPORT) go to www.thsca.com, and find "Submit a Coach On the Move Report" under the About Us tab.

NOW HEAR THIS

Coach Chuck Cotton Memori al Scholarship

••••••••••••••

Coach Chuck Cotton’s youngest daughter, Colby Leigh Cotton of Austin, along with her two sons, Dalton & Dylan Cotton are offering their 5th Annual Scholarship to a child athlete of acoach!

Applications will be accepted February 1 thru April 30, 2023 and the 2022-23 winner will be announced on M May 15, 2023.

See rules and download the application at: www.Coach-Cotton.com

info@Coach-Cotton.com .org

(512) 577.7952

Have you checked out our All-New 4-L's (LISTEN, LEARN, LOVE & LEAD) Curriculum?

Coach Stephen Mackey of 2Words Character Development along with our THSCA I.D.E.A. Committee (for Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Awareness) have worked together to generate a library of short video lessons for coaches to use as a professional development tool. Check out some sample lessons we have available at www.thsca.com/4l and then login to your THSCA Member Portal Account to access the full library of lessons.

Some of the 25+ Video Lessons Available...

• Seven Keys to Building a Healthy Locker Room

• The 10 Lies of Leadership (And what to do about them)

• Listening to our Coaches and Athletes to Learn the Best Ways to Encourage

• The Impact of Athletics Begins and Ends with the Coach

• Three Shifts to Better Take Care of Yourself so you Can Take Care of Others

• How Can Your Athletic Program Meet the Needs of Your Community

• Building Bridges w/ Coaches on Your Staff and Finding Connections Despite Differences

• How do we Help Student-Athletes or Staff Members Dealing with Grief and Loss

I WISH

BY: SCOTT RICHARDSON HEAD BOYS BASKETBALL TOLAR HIGH SCHOOL

Coaching is such a polarizing profession. It seems that no matter what walk of life someone finds him or herself in, at some point every person is watching and ultimately judging a coach. Whether it be professional sports, college, high school, or even an 8-year-old’s soccer game, everyone gets a chance to play the critic. There are not very many occupations that draw such a large amount of negative commentators. I am currently finishing my 21st year as a teacher and coach, and it has certainly been a journey. This has been an adventure that I have absolutely loved! I would like to think that after 21 years, I could call myself an expert at coaching. However, I find myself far from the expert level. I wish I could share with you the blueprint to championship coaching today. Instead, I will share with you a few things I wish I would have done differently.

I WISH I WOULD HAVE LISTENED…

There is no textbook that prepares us for what we are up against when we enter into coaching. Experience is like butter: it tends to make everything better. I have had so many missed opportunities in the coaches’ office. Instead of listening to the experienced coaches, I focused too much time on making myself heard. As a young coach, I went through that phase of prideful ignorance. I thought I knew it all, and I was ready to coach the Dallas Cowboys! “Just give me the reins!” I thought. I cannot imagine the heartache I could have saved myself and many others if I had just shut up and listened.

I WISH I WOULD HAVE PUT FAMILY FIRST…

I can honestly say that I have never regretted missing coaching to see one of my kids perform or to attend an event with my family. However, my kids are grown now, and I can say that I do miss them. There are moments with them that I missed to “coach” that I regret. Put a note on your desk or mirror, and write this one down. Trust me, it won’t cost you a game to miss for your family. The price you pay, however, when missing important family time can be painfully costly. After all, your loyalty with any team or school is faint in comparison to the loyalty your family at home has for you.

I WISH I WOULD HAVE HAD MORE GRACE…

One of the hardest things to do as a human being is to stop and put yourself in the shoes of another person. Coaching happens fast. Games are fast. The daily schedule of going from class to class to practice occurs at a blazing pace. Preparation time is at a minimum. I wish for all of the young coaches out there to gain the ability to PAUSE. Stop– and REFLECT– about your reaction. The delivery matters, the intent matters, and of course the content matters. I failed so many times as a coach with players and other coaches, simply because I did not have the ability to pause. I needed to pause and somehow do a Matrix-like 180 in order to see situations from the other side. People are trying– for you! They love you; they want to please you. I wish I would have extended grace more often.

I WISH I WOULD HAVE SPENT MORE TIME STUDYING THE PROCESS…

The UIL Texas State Championships are always an amazing event. Going and watching the best of any sport and their coaches is so fun. One thing I have learned is that over the years, I have seen it all work. Man and Zone Defense. The Wing T and the Spread. Dribble Drive, The Triangle. Keep going long enough and you will see almost every system. The age-old saying is “It is not the X’s and the O’s but the Jimmy’s and the Joe’s.” Well, I think that is a partial truth. I also think it is in how well a coach knows how to get players to execute his or her said system. That is all done in practice. It takes a great deal of time and effort behind the curtain learning to teach, to practice, and to instill flawless execution in the most pressured situations. It is of the utmost importance to know what your team CAN do and unravel how to maximize those strengths. THAT is the real secret.

I WISH THAT WE ALL WOULD UNITE…

It doesn’t matter the shape of the ball, or lack thereof, that you coach. We are all coaching kids. We are all still passionately fighting for a game that we fell in love with as a kid. We all have the ultimate responsibility of impacting and possibly changing the lives of our youth. I wish that before I judged a coach’s actions, I would have remembered that he or she was doing their best. I know that I have had personal moments, as well as moments from my players, that I was not proud of as a coach. We are all trying, we are all passionate, and we really are all on the same team. Coaching. It is a team (some might say fraternity) of its own. Coaching is one of the most sacred professions. I wish I would have been quick to offer support– or a kind word–to my opponent’s coach; I wish I would have been slower to judge. He was one of us. She was doing her best. We all have enough critics outside of our fraternity.

I love what I do. Usually my biggest critic is still myself. I bet if you are reading this article, you can probably relate. I hope that maybe you were reminded that this is a tough thing we do, an honorable thing. I also hope that you continue to “Fight the good fight,” Coach. Someone on your team needs the best you got. I wish you the best of luck moving forward.

March 2023

Hello Ladies!

March is finally here which means hello Spring Break!!!! I swear we were just ringing in the New Year yesterday. But here we are, halfway through the second semester of school. There are so many Spring Sports going on right now. Shout out to all the baseball wives, basketball wives, soccer wives, track and field wives, softball wives, wrestling wives, powerlifting wives, tennis wives, and swimming wives. Everyone always seems to think that football season is our busiest time of the year, but every year I have to prepare myself for Spring Sports Season, that’s when we are non stop on the go. Lets just say, Spring Break is definitely calling my name right now.

We are four months away from Houston Convention 2023. Our Board of Directors are working hard to make this year's Coaching School one of the best! It truly takes major teamwork to put such a fun event on for all you amazing ladies. Houston area wives, we could use your help! If you have a small business or know of any local businesses that would like to set up as a vendor at Convention, please have them contact me via email at txcoacheswives@gmail.com. We have some fun things in store for Houston and a special Guest Speaker that I can NOT wait to share with all of you.

Reminder to all Senior Parents!!!!

If you are an active THSCWA members with a senior that will be graduating with the class of 2023, now is the time to start submitting your scholarship application. Deadline is April 28, 2023. If you have any questions about the scholarship application, please reach out to us via email at THSCWAScholarship@gmail.com.

As always, I would like to say thank you for your continued support of the Texas High School Coaches Wives Association. I can’t wait to see all of you in Houston! Make sure you continue to check our social media for Convention updates. You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Your 2022-2023 President, Shelby B. Shelby

Region 7 : McAllen High School txcoacheswives@gmail.com

THSCWA OFFICERS: 2022-2023

PRESIDENT: SHELBY B. SHELBY

PRESIDENT ELECT : misty houston

SECRETARY: justine palmer

TREASURER: cynthia griffing

PAST PRESIDENT: KARYN STORY

DIRECTORS

REG 1: kim keys

REG 2: ANGIE MARTINEZ

REG 3: MONICA HARP

REG 4: ANGIE TORRES

REG 5: erin smith

REG 6: DAISY GREEK

REG 7: MORGAN HAMRICK

REG 8: amanda aguirre

ASSISTANT DIRECTORS:

REG 1: clara simmons

REG 2: JESSICA ATWOD

REG 3: KRISTEN HAYWOOD

REG 4: GENTRY STAUGH

REG 5: RACHAEL MCGUIRE

REG 6: LYNDSEY RATLIFF

REG 7: AMBER HILLIS

REG 8: open

SPECIAL COMMITTEES:

SCHOLARSHIP CHAIR - ERIN SMITH, SOCIAL MEDIA CHAIR - KRISTEN HAYWOOD

BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE NONPROFIT:

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER: JENNIFER LOCKE

SECRETARY: PATTI RITTIMANN

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER: MELANIE HEASLEY

CAREER VICTORIES

The THSCA will award a certificate/plaque to honor member coaches in baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, track, volleyball, and wrestling. In order to receive a certificate/plaque, the coach must be a member of the THSCA for several consecutive years. It is each coach’s responsibility to email/mail this form along with their coaching record (varsity level) to the THSCA when the career victory milestone is passed. One complimentary certificate and one complimentary plaque will be awarded when you reach the appropriate career victory milestone (milestones noted below). Plaques and certificates are only ordered for the career victory milestones listed below. For example, if a Career Victory Form is submitted for 300 victories in football, the plaque will be ordered to say 200 victories, unless arrangements have been made to purchase a plaque through our office. If you would like to purchase a plaque for any victories past the milestones listed below, please contact Tyler Watts at (512) 3923741 or tylerwatts@thsca.com. Plaque cost is $55.00.

It is very important to denote head coaching victories from assistant coach victories. Assistant coaches will only be awarded certificates and must count victories in VARSITY sports only.

SPORT CAREER VICTORY

BASEBALL

BASKETBALL

FOOTBALL

SOCCER

SOFTBALL

VOLLEYBALL

CERTIFICATE / PLAQUE

SPORT

CROSS COUNTRY

GOLF

SWIMMING & DIVING

TENNIS

CAREER VICTORY MILESTONE

CERTIFICATE / PLAQUE

300 points* Certificate

600 points* Plaque

300 points* Certificate

600 points* Plaque

300 points* Certificate

500 points* Plaque

300 points* Certificate

500 points* Plaque

TRACK & FIELD 300 points* Certificate

WRESTLING

MAIL OR EMAIL THIS FORM TO:

THSCA – Tyler Watts PO BOX 1138

SAN MARCOS, TX 78667 tylerwatts@thsca.com

When will I receive my certificate or plaque?

500 points* Plaque

300 points* Certificate

600 points* Plaque

*ALL SPORTS ABOVE USE THE FOLLOWING POINT SYSTEM:

10 pts - each year as varsity head coach

10 pts - each team district championship

1 pt - each regional qualifier (per event)

3 pts - each state qualifier (per event)

20 pts - team regional championship

30 pts - team state championship

• CERTIFICATES: Certificates are mailed throughout the year and will be mailed as soon as the forms are processed.

• PLAQUES: Plaques are ordered once a year, in June, and will be available in July. All forms must be received by May 31st for the plaque to be available in July. Any form received after May 31st will go on the following year’s order. All plaques must be picked-up at the plaque booth at coaching school, unless you choose to have it mailed to you. If you would like your plaque mailed to you, please enclose $8 for shipping. Mailed plaques will be mailed when they arrive in July.

NAME: _________________________________________________________ THSCA MEMBER NUMBER: __________

MAILING ADDRESS: _______________________________ C, S, Z: _____________________________

SPORT: → (MUST denote boys or girls – points/victories for separate teams cannot be combined)

YEAR VICTORY MILESTONE WAS ACHIEVED:

SCHOOL: HEAD or ASSISTANT COACH: VICTORIES:

PLEASE CHECK ONE:

I WILL PICK UP MY PLAQUE AT COACHING SCHOOL

I WOULD LIKE MY PLAQUE MAILED TO ME & HAVE ENCLOSED $8 FOR SHIPPING

wit wisdom&

TO THE CRITIC

“The final proof of greatness lies in being able to endure criticism without resentment.”

Elbert Hubbard

"All that was great in the past was ridiculed, condemned, combated, suppressed--only to emerge all the more powerfully, all the more triumphantly from the struggle..”

Nikola Tesla

"The trouble with most of us is that we'd rather be ruined by praise than saved by criticism..”

Norman Vincent Peale

“Carry out a random act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day someone might do the same for you.”

Princess Diana

“Remember, there’s no such thing as a small act of kindness. Every act creates a ripple with no logical end.”

Scott Adams

“Do not let arrogance go to your head and despair to your heart; do not let compliments go to your head and criticisms to your heart; do not let success go to your head and failure to your heart.”

Roy T. Bennett

THE FINISH

“No matter who you are or what you do, embrace the challenge to first start with the goal to finish strong..”

Andy Andrews

“The last thing you want to do is finish playing or doing anything and wish you would have worked harder.”

Derek Jeter

Sharon Salzberg

Neil Gaiman

“Great things come from hard work and perseverance. No Excuses.”

Kobe Bryant

“That is what compassion does. It challenges our assumptions, our sense of self-limitation, worthlessness, of not having a place in the world, our feelings of loneliness and estrangement. These are narrow, constrictive states of mind. As we develop compassion, our hearts open.”

“Whatever it takes to finish things, finish. You will learn more from a glorious failure than you ever will from something you never finished.”

WHAT CHARACTERISTICS LEAD TO>> SUCCESS

By Brien Burchett Head Track/Asst. Football Coach Greenwood High School

Preface: There are probably no new ideas that can be found in this article. However, the thoughts and ideas presented herein are worth heavy consideration no matter what phase of life or your career you may currently be in.

As I have considered the question, “What characteristics lead to success?” I have come to believe that integrity, relentlessness (persistence), and conscientiousness, are three of the most important characteristics that can be found in successful coaches and athletes. It is vitally important for coaches to find ways to pass integrity, relentlessness, and conscientiousness on to everyone around them through teaching and by example. There are those that might think and believe that these three qualities are inherent in most people. While this may be the case for some people, I propose that the qualities of integrity, relentlessness, and conscientiousness are not inherent in a large majority of the human population. These characteristics can and should be taught at all times and in every situation possible. These three characteristics can be a benefit to everyone and can lead to success in every aspect of life.

Integrity may be one of those characteristics that can be relatively fluid in all people depending upon the situation. True integrity is hard to witness because it is something that truly only manifests when no one is watching. How do we as people behave behind the scenes...Do we complain a lot? Do we find ways to help others? Do we work hard every chance we get? Are we able to be honest with ourselves about ourselves? Are we able to be constructively honest with others? Are we able to effectively build a promising future by making the right choices and sacrifices in the present?

One might ask: What is integrity? Or better yet, where does a person’s integrity come from? Integrity is not necessarily something that is inherent in everyone. Even if someone has integrity today, will that same person still have integrity tomorrow or the next day? Integrity can be defined as a person’s ability to be honest, trustworthy, and whole. It can also be a person’s ability to judge rightly. Integrity is a quality that can be grown and cultivated throughout a person’s life and through a person’s experience.

Coaches have a perfect platform to provide feedback about integrity and make things relatable to life experience. It is important to teach and coach both athletes and colleagues about the virtues of integrity now so that they may understand how to have integrity in the future. Integrity can come from teaching about the inherent value of people and the value of people’s lives. A person must also learn to value themself. If a person does not know their own worth, how can they possibly understand the worth of someone else? Coaches and teachers have a great opportunity each day to give value to others with every interaction. Every interaction is either positive or negative, very rarely are interactions neutral. People need to know that they have value, people need to be told over and over again that they have value, and people need to see that they have value. Worthiness and value intrinsically make a difference in people. A person who values themselves will trust themselves to do well and to do right. A person with integrity will have the confidence to make tough

decisions for themselves and for others. High integrity comes when someone that values themself enough to know that they have the ability to affect others. Integrity can be taught and learned in almost every situation. Coaches should coach and teach value and worth to everyone, because intrinsic value and worth will cause integrity to manifest during the most trying times and difficult situations.

Relentlessness is a characteristic that is important in sports and in life. When a person has a relentlessly persistent mindset, he/she is not likely to be deterred from what they desire to achieve. Relentlessness will cause a person to continue in spite of, and in the face of, failure. A relentless mindset will help a person overcome every different kind of adversity. Relentlessness and integrity combined can cause a person to see challenges and obstacles as opportunities to learn and grow, instead of seeing challenges and obstacles as a reason to stop or to quit altogether.

People tend to reflect the leadership and attitudes of those they are surrounded by. The words, attitudes, and actions that coaches and teachers use to instruct, build, or tear down are the things that matter. These words, ideas, and interactions are the opportunities by which coaches can build intrinsic value into those around them. Coaches that coach and teach relentlessly will find that they will be surrounded by others that behave, work, and think in a relentless manner. It is highly important to teach and coach athletes an attitude of relentlessness through hard work and aggressive play. Great leaders and very successful people have the attitude that nothing and no one will keep them from what they desire to become or achieve. These kinds of people have come to understand that they have value and their value can be used to better themselves and those around them. Coaches that teach that failure is part of the process, are teaching a relentless mindset. It is very important for people to learn and to understand that many times more is learned through failure than through accomplishment. The only true failure is when a person decides to give up and decides not

to keep going. Failure can only become permanent if and when relentlessness is allowed to die.

Conscientiousness is a characteristic that is proven to help people to become organized and have a well structured mindset. A conscientious person is someone who desires to do jobs well and to perform to the best of their ability, in general. A person who is conscientious will look at the resources and people that surround them, and find a way to utilize their resources and people in order to have the best possible outcomes for everyone. A conscientious person is not worried about only themselves. They also consider the needs of others. Conscientious people are good at making themselves into an irreplaceable component of any system. Conscientious people are ethical because they understand the importance of being ethical, and they understand the value of people. Conscientious people understand the question and concept of, “Who is thy neighbor?”

Coaches and athletes that are conscientious are excellent people for program building. You know that you can count on them to be present and

to perform in any given situation or circumstance. Conscientiousness can be taught through dedication to a cause. It takes a conscientious person to start the job and to see it through to the end. Especially when the outcome is less than desirable. Coaches that are conscientious do not need to be managed; they need little direction; and they have the ability to problem solve and get things done in a manner that is efficient and timely. Athletes that are conscientious are involved in things other than themselves. They tend to understand the value of the idea of “Team.” These athletes are quick to give credit to their teammates before they take credit for themselves. This is because they see the big picture and understand hierarchy and value. These are the athletes that are willing to wait for their time to shine. While they may be confident, they carry themselves with a humility that comes from their inner belief that they can and will make a difference. Coaches that are conscientious can make a huge difference on a coaching staff, in their school, and to the athletes around them.

versions of themselves both on and off the field.

In closing: People matter! In the grand scheme of things, nothing matters as much as people. Young people are the future; it may be an old cliche, but it is a fact that young people are the leaders of tomorrow. Young people all matter! History is full of people that have done great things and people that have failed. It is important to help to build people that are mentally and spiritually strong enough to overcome failure. We need future leaders that are fearless conquerors. This will be achieved not through ideologies but through helping those around us become the best

I believe that it is important to instill in our athletes an unbreakable attitude via hard work and consistency. It is easy to let those around us slip into routines that are counterproductive to the goals of the team. Athletes will tend to be a reflection of the people that are in their immediate circle. It is important for us as coaches to try our best to make sure that our athletes consider their coaches to be part of their immediate circle. As coaches, there is a good chance that we probably spend more time with our athletes than almost anyone else in their lives. It gives us, as coaches, ample opportunity to leave a lasting imprint on many young lives. This is an imprint that will last for years to come. If you look at it from this perspective, it can be a bit overwhelming; because we honestly hold young lives in our hands. It is easy to become hardened or callus towards young athletes that may not fit the mold of the positions and sports that we coach. Now, I am not saying that we as coaches should keep everyone around and turn athletics into an opportunity to save and change lives at every turn. Then again, why not? Whenever possible, coaches should use athletics as an avenue to help young lives reach their full potential. The hard truth is that we, as coaches, can not save everyone. Not everyone is salvageable in the time that we know them. But we can plant seeds everywhere we go and in every interaction that we have. Seeds for positive outcomes either for now or for in the future. It is surprising to find exactly how many young people have never heard anyone tell them that they have value! It is even more surprising to see exactly how young students and athletes respond when a coach, teacher, or some figure of authority tells them that they are worthy of something that is good! Appreciation and love go a long way when it comes to teaching and coaching.

As individuals we should be our brother's keeper; not through welfare, but by helping our athletes and our colleagues achieve their goals through accountability and hard work that comes by way of integrity, relentlessness, and conscientiousness.

around the state

around the state

THSCA & Texas Farm Bureau Insurance want to give recognition to our Texas high school coaches for their accomplishments on and off the field/court.

Congratulations to our Fall 2022 Regional Head Coach and Assistant Coach Honorees and our overall Coach of the Year in each sport.

Team tennis

thsca regional Honorees:

head coach of the year

Region 1

4A – Darby Norman, Randall

5A – Koby Otto, Amarillo

Region 7

5A – Jeff Davidson, CC Veterans

Region 8

4A – Amanda Sterling, Academy

5A – Joey Cantu, Boerne Champion assistant coach of the year

Region 5

6A – Kevin McIlvain, The Woodlands

Region 8

4A – Amy Ruede, Boerne

water polo

thsca regional Honorees:

head coach of the year

Region 3

Boys – Brandon Dion, Marcus

Girls W – Tony Arbogast, Flower Mound

Region 5

Boys & Girls – Jeff Chandler, Cy-Creek

Region 7

Boys – Hector Castaneda, Halringen

Girls – Danny Euresti, Harlingen

Region 8

Boys & Girls – Alberto Escalante, Champion

assistant coach of the year

Region 8

Boys & Girls - Michael Gillette, Champion

cross country

thsca regional Honorees: head coach of the year

Region 1

Boys – 2A – Jonathan Lira, Plains

Boys – 5A – Crista Jones, Lubbock Monterey

Region 3

Boys – 5A – Logan Kelly, Lovejoy

Boys – 6A – Justin Leonard, Southlake Carroll

Girls – 3A – Rheanna Fagan, Whitesboro

Girls – 5A – Carly Littlefield, Lovejoy

Region 4

Boys – 4A – Brandon Clemmons, Big Spring

Girls – 4A – Wade Floyd, Andrews

Region 5

Girls – 5A – Josh Munson, College Station

Region 6

Boys – 3A – Josh Sypert, Eustace

Region 7

Boys & Girls – 1A – Gary Billingsley, McMullen County

Boys & Girls – 3A – Gilbert Ruiz, Lytle

Boys – 5A – Jorge Guerra, Sharyland

Boys – 6A – Efrain Ambriz, Harlingen

Girls – 4A – Graciela Campos, LaFeria

Girls – 5A – Ariana Montalvo- Castillo, Harlingen South

Girls – 6A – Eder Islas, Harlingen

Region 8

Boys – 3A – Shayla Rawls, Troy

assistant coach of the year

Region 3

Girls – 6A – Roxanne Farris, Highland Park

Region 4

Boys – 4A – Randall Shaw, Big Spring

thsca regional Honorees: head coach of the year

Region 1

5A – Dana Hill, Lubbock Cooper

Region 2

2A – Brenda Greebon, Water Valley

Region 3

3A – Katelyn Gill, Gunter

Region 5

4A – Susan Brewer, Bellville

Region 6

2A – Courtney Doyle, Valley Mills

Region 7

2A – Holly Vasquez, Skidmore-Tynan

5A – Raul Castillo, Sharyland

6A – Joslyn Torres, Harlingen

Region 8

5A – Heather Sanders, Canyon

6A – Michael Kane, Dripping Springs

assistant coach of the year

Region 3

5A – Staci Williams, Northwest

Region 5

3A – Jennifer Chester, Columbus

6A – Bethany Ellis, Tompkins

Region 7

4A – Kelsey Washington, Calallen

Region 8

5A – Shelbi Goode, Georgetown

football

thsca regional Honorees:

head coach of the year

Region 1

6A – Jay Northcutt, Frenship

Region 2

2A – Denney Faith, Albany

Region 3

2A – Jeremy Mullins, Tolar

3A – Jeremy Jenkins, Harmony

4A – Cliff Watkins, Glen Rose

5A – Todd Rodgers, Argyle

6A – Reginald Samples, Duncanville

Region 5

4A – Theadis Reagins, Brookshire Royal

5A – Stoney Pryor, College Station

6A – Travis Reeve, New Caney

Region 6

3A – Mark Fannin, Franklin

4A – Jeff Riordan, Chapel Hill

6A – Shane Tolleson, Waxahachie

Region 7

2A – Jason Herring, Refugio

3A – Jeff Luna, Poth

4A – Jerod Fikac, Cuero

5A – Ben Bitner, CC Veterans Memorial

6A – Manny Gomez, Harlingen

Region 8

4A – Doug Warren, Wimberley

5A – Heath Clawson, Elgin

6A – Drew Sanders, Austin Vandegrift

assistant coach of the year

Region 1

2A – Jeff Anderson, Wellington

Region 2

4A – Kolt Kittley, Stephenville

Region 3

3A – Jordan Gill, Gunter

4A – Bruce McDonald, Caddo Mills

6A – Charles Williams, DeSoto

Region 4

2A – Santos Saucedo, McCamey

Region 5

4A – Phil Wilson, Brookshire Royal

5A – Chance Locklear, College Station

Region 7

3A – Joe Rios, Taft

5A – Lanny Wilson, CC Veterans Memorial

Region 8

4A – Dane Saucier, Wimberley

5A – Jordon Ricker, Alamo Heights

6A – Blake Mouser, Austin Vandegrift

Meal Planning Made Easy for Student-Athletes

Proper and consistent fueling is important for high performance, as an athlete and as a student. Every meal is an opportunity to provide the energy and nutrients your body needs, plus it gives you an edge over athletes who don’t focus on nutrition.

Eat a Balanced Diet.

Incorporate dairy, whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, veggies, and healthy fats into your daily diet to ensure proper fueling and recovery.

Putting MyPlate into Practice

Meal planning can be fun and simple. Utilize MyPlate when choosing your meal to help you build a balanced plate. Check out these easy ideas to fuel using MyPlate!

• Breakfast: Mix up overnight oats the night before and grab it from the refrigerator on your way out the door in the morning.

• Lunch: A turkey sandwich, an apple, and a glass of low-fat chocolate milk is a quick, easy lunch idea.

• Snacks: String cheese and grapes is a portable, nutrient-rich snack option.

Dairy’s Role on the Athlete’s Plate

The diversity, convenience, and taste of dairy foods like Greek yogurt, cheese, and milk are great additions to meals and snacks. Chocolate milk after exercise is an example of a great-tasting recovery snack to promote muscle recovery.

With a little planning, meals and snacks can provide the nutrition to fuel you as an athlete and a student!

BEONE SPORTS CLELL WADE COACHES DIRECTORY GIPPER

PORTAPHONE

JOSTENS

Supporting Sponsor: SI Wealth Management

OFFICIAL PARTNERS

Craig Way

2023 COACHING BEYOND THE GAME AWARD WINNER

Jeff Dixon

carlesa dixon

todd winfrey

PHOTO CREDITs: phil sirois

Thank you to our 2023 Summit Speakers & Sponsors

2WORDS

ARLINGTON CVB BSN SPORTS

CFP FOUNDATION

DALLAS COWBOYS

DELL CHILDREN'S

HUDL

TEXAS FARM BUREAU INSURANCE VISIT SAN ANTONIO

Randy White

STEPHEN MACKEY

jody conradt

susan brewer PHOTO CREDITs: phil sirois

millard house

john u. bacon

chris singleton

COACHING SCHOOL COACHING SCHOOL

KENNY HANSMIRE

FUNDAMENTALS OF COACHING DEFENSIVE LINEMEN

BY AARON DE LA

DEFENSIVE

Coaching defensive linemen in football requires technical skills, physical fitness, and mental preparation. To be a successful defensive lineman, you need to have fundamentals. When I was a sophomore in college in 1994, I had to attend the THSCA convention in Ft. Worth for an event that our head coach wanted recruits from the DFW to attend. Before the event, I attended the general meeting and heard Gene Stallings speak; at that time was the head coach at the University of Alabama. His graduate assistant pulled out his overhead projector, and he began to write the three most important things to him for winning football games. The first thing he wrote was we must “STOP the RUN”! This statement became the foundation of my beliefs and ideology as a defensive line coach.

Every position needs a process for teaching, learning, and grading your players. The key fundamentals are getting into the proper stance, alignment, knowing your assignment, using the proper technique, running to the ball, and tackling. You must stop the run, rush the passer, and make plays to win. Attacking defensive linemen force mistakes, throw opponents for a loss, and place significant pressure on the passer. The more prepared your players are, the better coach you can be. You must have line-of-scrimmage discipline, meaning no pre-snap penalties. Working these situations daily in ball get-off drills and block recognition will prepare your defensive lineman. Teaching fundamentals of pre-snap reads, knowledge, and technique has worked to give me the most consistent results in developing my players.

“Pre-Snap Reads/Keys”

Before the ball is snapped, defensive linemen must be ready to play when the center touches the ball. They must be onside, and look for the following pre-snap reads:

Backfield Sets and alignment of the running back, formations, splits of the offensive line, light/heavy stance of the offensive line, the down/distance, and field position/zone. Teaching your players pre-snap reads will give them the tools to be successful in each play.

“Knowledge”

Stance, Alignment, Assignment, and Technique are the foundation of teaching and evaluating my defensive lineman. Players are evaluated for their responsibilities of run to me, run away from me, and pass. Your process must be organized and able to demonstrate consistency from your players. Stance: the defensive linemen’s base, feet, hands, and shoulder placement vs. the offensive line. Alignment: the width and splits of offensive linemen, personnel, and backfield sets. Assignment: the player’s gap or cover-down responsibilities in the run, pass, stunts, games, and blitzes. Techniques: what you do and use to execute your assignment. Lastly, ball get-off is vital to re-establish the line of scrimmage.

“Technique”

Technique is utilized to defeat blocks and execute assignments. Coaches are very similar in how they teach. The difference is verbiage and their process of

TORRE

COORDINATOR - DEFENSIVE LINE - DENTON RYAN HIGH SCHOOL (adelatorre2@dentonisd.org)

PHOTO DENTON RECORD-CHRONICLE

teaching fundamentals. The structure of my pedagogy is based on the fundamentals of using proper techniques to execute plays better.

The stance of the defensive lineman should be where your feet are shoulder width apart, with a heelto-toe stagger on the offensive lineman you are lined up on. The offensive lineman you are lined up on is called your key. Your man hand and foot should be down (the hand and foot closest to your key). You then want your hand in front of your face as close to the ball as possible without being offsides. Weight must be distributed evenly through your feet in hands, and your butt should be slightly above your head. Your free hand should be relaxed and near your down hand, ready to strike on the ball or man movement.

Striking means coming out of your hips. The feet, hands, and hat are an extension of the hips. There is a lot of debate on how this is taught. I do not tell our defensive linemen they should take a six-inch power step. The game has changed, and principles must be constantly evaluated to see if they are still applicable. I teach two types of steps, a base and a jet step. Base steps are for run-oriented situations determined by down and distance, personnel, formations, and offensive lineman splits. I tell our defensive linemen to step and replace (their down hand), so they can re-establish their base. Jet steps are for passing and blitzing, more elongated steps.

When discussing hand placement, we overemphasize palms up, thumbs up, and elbows in for leverage purposes. We must win hands to the breastplate to maintain gap control. The hand on the ground should come straight up to the middle of the breastplate. The free hand should be in the near armpit to the shoulder pad. We want our hands above our eyes for proper leverage. Inside hands win, so you must fight for hand control/leverage.

Hat placement is critical, so we key the “V” of the neck and “Keep our Hat in our Crack” for gap responsibility – no peeking. Eyes should be on your key pre-snap and periphery vision on the ball. Defensive linemen are taught they must play to and through your key with their eyes on the ball. Work the “3-E’s” (explode, extend, escape) to gain and maintain leverage through the play. The defensive lineman will shoot their hands while keeping their head away from the offensive linemen. ‘Exploding” out of our hips while shooting our hands helps re-establish the line of scrimmage while striking the opponent. A player’s hat and hands are an

extension of our hips, where all our power comes from. The block can be won with bad feet and good hands, but it is almost impossible to recover without shooting your hands. Getting “Extension” is vital to beating the block on contact and getting our eyes on the ball. This is where we keep the linemen off the defensive lineman by having full arm extension. Play to and through or key (who we are lined up on). Our eyes are on the “V” of the neck and then the ball, and our hands are on the breastplate, fighting pressure of the offensive lineman with opposite pressure. I tell the defensive lineman to Ray Charles (fell the block) the key so you can see the ball. Put your opponent in the gap while maintaining your gap. We then must ‘Escape” the block of the lineman. To do this, we must have control of the lineman to get off the block. We escape violently with various moves, but I recommend a rip. The rip technique ensures that you maintain leverage and are low throughout the block. You cannot escape the block if you do not keep an outside post hand extended and in contact with the offensive lineman. You cannot get off the block if you don’t control the block. If the defender lets go to escape, the lineman still has two hands-on and will win the block. The shoulders should be square to the line of scrimmage until you come off the block. Once you escape, you must now run to the ball and make a tackle. We work on tackling drills recommended and shared by ATAVUS and the THSCA. When tackling, if the ball is to you, we will escape when we have control of the block and vision of the ball. If the ball is away from you, you must maintain your gap until the ball has committed to the line of scrimmage.

If it is a pass, you must react and have a pre-snap plan. Have a predetermined move, a counter, and by the third step, you must collapse the pocket with a bull rush if you are not clear of the offensive lineman. Use the lineman’s leverage to your advantage to pressure the quarterback. You can work on many pass rush moves, but I would find two moves that complement each other and get good at those. If you have a player that does things naturally, then harness and work on those moves.

The pre-snap keys, knowledge, and techniques can vary from coach to coach. These fundamentals are consistently evaluated to be easy for players. These explanations can seem vague without video or live examples but give insight into my coaching progression. I hope these tips can help with your process and implementation of coaching fundamentals for the defensive line.

THE HEAD PROTECTION LEADER

Largest football equipment manufacturer of helmets and shoulder pads.

Largest reconditioner of football equipment in the world. Market leader in football head protection technology. The industry leader in smart helmet technology.

Riddell is proud to sponsor the Texas High School Coaches Association

Planning for the 2023 Coaching School & Convention in Houston is underway and we are excited to host all our Texas coaches! We want to provide you with some details & updates and what to expect for 2023!

what to start planning for now...

» REGISTRATION The price for Coaching School registration will be the same as last year, however please make note of the newest registration deadlines.

REGISTRATION DEADLINES/COST:

MARCH 1 - JUNE 1 - $60 PER COACH

JUNE 2 - JULY 1 - $75 PER COACH

ONSITE AT CONVENTION - $90 PER COACH

(Please note convention registration fees are separate from the annual membership fee. Membership fee/renewal is a separate $70 fee.)

CONVENTION HOURS:

SUNDAY, July 16th - 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

MONDAY, July 17th - 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

TUESDAY, July 18th - 8:00 AM to NOON

» TRANSFERS & REFUNDS The deadline to request a refund or transfer of payment for a Coaching School registration will be July 1st. If you are paying with a school check and still need to hire a coach, you may still send in the registration fee with the rest of your staff and make a note that you would like us to store it in our system

THSCA Convention & Coaching School

HOUSTON, TX

George R. Brown Convention Center July 16-18

as open credit on your school's account until you are able to hire that person.

» U.I.L. CCP MANDATORY EDUCATION We will once again provide opportunities to complete mandatory U.I.L. CCP courses in-person at Coaching School. We also plan to offer coaches the option to complete these prior to arrival through our THSCA platform on CoachTube. We had a number of coaches choose to get these courses completed at home before arriving. For those that pre-register for the convention by July 7th, we plan to provide early access to CCP Courses the week before the convention.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE 2023 COACHING SCHOOL REGISTRATION FEE:

► IN-PERSON ACCESS to LIVE Demos, Sport Lectures & Professional Development Lectures

► IN-PERSON ACCESS to Exhibit Show and Sponsored Networking Events

► IN-PERSON ACCESS to THSCA Career Center

► IN-PERSON ACCESS to THSCA Regional Meetings & General Meeting, including your OPPORTUNITY TO VOTE OR BE NOMINATED in our 2023 THSCA elections.

► IN-PERSON OPTION to print/laminate your THSCA membership card for upcoming year.

► Access to both IN-PERSON & VIRTUAL opportunities to complete UIL CCP Mandatory Education Courses

► Email Certificate of Participation for Continuing Education Hours to provide to your school. (Only available to those who attend the convention in -person and pick up their packet onsite.)

TENTATIVE OUTLINE OF EVENTS FOR 2023 COACHING SCHOOL AND CONVENTION...

SATURDAY,

1:00 PM THSCA Board Meeting

7:00 PM Hall of Honor Banquet

HBGCC Stars at Night Ballroom

SUNDAY, JULY 16

Pre-Registration Packet Printout

Onsite Registration

THSCA Career Center

MONDAY, JULY 17

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

THSCA Office & Help Desk

Exhibits Open

THSCWA Wives Registration

10:00 AM FULL LINE-UP OF LECTURES

11:00 AM FULL LINE-UP OF LECTURES

12:00 PM THSCA HUDDLE UP PRESENTATION

1:00 PM FULL LINE-UP OF LECTURES

2:00 PM FULL LINE-UP OF LECTURES

3:00 PM FULL LINE-UP OF LECTURES

TUESDAY, JULY 18

4:15 - 5:15 PM

NCAA Div. I Head Football Coaches Panel Discussion & Leadership in Women's Coaching Panel Discussion 5:30 - 6:30 PM

Below is a list of discounted hotel rates available through the THSCA Housing Block for the 2023 Coaching School. Online booking will require a credit card in order to secure the room, however the card will not be charged until you check-in or 72 hours before arrival. THE DEADLINE FOR BOOKING AT THE DISCOUNTED RATE WILL BE JULY 1ST.

Booking for the THSCA housing block and updates on hotel availability and parking are only accessible on our website at: www.thsca.com/hotels

CANCELLATION POLICY:

Cancellations made after June 1, 2023, and 72 hours prior to arrival date will be charged a $50.00 cancellation fee per room. Continue to use VISIT HOUSTON HOUSING for all changes and cancellations through July 1, 2023. After July 1, 2023, cancellations must be directed to your assigned hotel at least 72 hours prior to arrival or a one night’s room and tax charge will be assessed by the hotel.

Please note the following fee is not included in room rates: 1.25% Tourism Public Improvement District (PID) Fee. Room rates and PID fees are subject to 16.75% Hotel Tax per Night. (Subject to change) *Additional fees may apply for 3rd or 4th person in room: If a rollaway bed is required.*

VISIT HOUSTON HOUSING is the ONLY THSCA designated housing provider for the 2023 THSCA Convention & Coaching School. Beware of other companies misrepresenting themselves as affiliated with THSCA.

THE ROLE OF NUTRITION IN ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE

by: Walter L. Prater

PhD Candidate & Killeen Ellison High School Strength & Conditioning Coordinator

It is often said that you are what you eat. In the world of sports nutrition, what and when you eat can make the difference between great performance and poor performance. While the diet for student athletes may be dominated by processed food choices, it is important for us as Coaches to address the best practices for fueling as early as possible. For example, a distance runner and powerlifter would need different methods of fueling for optimal performance. Based on their sports, the physiological demands on the body would dictate their unique fuel sources. What follows is a few dietary and practical strategies that athletes may use to ensure that they have adequately fueled themselves for practice and competitions.

Strategy 1: Monitoring Glycogen Stores

Endurance sports are considered as activities that are over 90 minutes. When endurance sport athletes prepare for competitions, increasing their glycogen storage (also known as Carb Loading) helps to delay fatigue by around 20% and provide slight increases to performance by 2%-3% (Beck et al., 2015). The consumption rate for carb loading

is recommended at 10-12 g of carbohydrate per kg of body mass 36-48 hours prior to competition. Typical go-to selections to carb load include bread, pasta, fruits, starchy vegetables, rice, potatoes, corn, and beans. Some may also choose sugary options such as energy bars, cereal, pop tarts, and peanut butter & jelly sandwiches. For events that last about an hour, ingesting liquids with carbohydrates included can positively affect motor output (Beck et al., 2015). In longer competitive events, carbohydrate intake can prevent hypoglycemia (low blood glucose) and maintain high carbohydrate oxidation levels to aid in energy production (Beck et al., 2015).

Strategy 2: Hydration

Maintaining adequate hydration is extremely important – as even a 2% decrease in body water can cause impairments that negatively affect athletic performance (NSCA, 2011; NSCA, 2022). The environment, intensity and duration of the sport strongly determine the amount of sweat loss (water and electrolytes) which must be replenished. This is best achieved, primarily, with

pure water with an occasional sports beverage. A simple, hydration technique is to take half one’s bodyweight (in lbs.) as the starting point for the number of ounces of water to ingest. For a student-athlete who weighs 160 lbs., 80 oz of water per day would be the base hydration level. Of course, for higher sweat levels, the number would be increased, accordingly. During competitions, hydrating with 3-8 oz of a 6% to 8% carbohydrate-electrolyte beverage every 20 minutes or so helps to maintain body water levels for activities lasting 60-90 minutes (NSCA, 2011). Post-competition, replenishment of body water loss is to be addressed over the next 24 hours. For every pound of weight lost during training or competition, 20-24 oz of fluid is recommended (NSCA, 2011). All of these actions are taken so that the body returns to an optimal state of body water, or euhydration.

Strategy 3: Macronutrient Replenishment

After competitions, there is an immediate need to refill the fluids, carbohydrate, and protein levels after water and electrolytes are addressed. With protein (0.4 g per kg bodyweight) and with carbohydrates (0.8 g per kg bodyweight) in mind, there is a 30minute anabolic window after competition where the body is primed for nutrient absorption to encourage muscle protein and glycogen synthesis (Smith-Ryan & Antonio, 2013). This is critical for sports that rely on more explosive movements – such as sprinting, jumping and movement of heavy weights/equipment. Chocolate milk, which has a combination of protein and carbohydrates, is a common, cost effective choice that can hydrate the body as well (Smith-Ryan & Antonio, 2013). Also, even a small, nutritious meal during the 30-minute window can help the body recover from strenuous activities.

Bonus Strategy : Sleep

When nutrition is optimal with high carbohydrate and protein availability, the #1 recovery strategy is for the athlete to get adequate sleep. Although it is not in the scope of nutrition, when focusing on recovery, sleep must be highlighted. The recommended number of hours is 7-8 hours; however, the athlete must listen to the body to find the timeframe that works best. Based on the level of exertion, the optimal amount of sleep may be more than 8 hours. During sleep, flushing of metabolic waste of the brain and body occurs, while all types of tissue are rebuilt. This is also the time where deep learning occurs and knowledge is solidified (NSCA, 2022). Such memory consolidation may improve cognition of sport plays,

schemes, and details to give a competitive edge. Incorporating naps also can be beneficial earlier in the day, such as a 1-hour pregame nap (NSCA, 2022).

For any competition, creating and maintaining a competitive advantage plays a large role winning games and championships. By addressing the best practices of carb loading (for endurance events), hydration, carbohydrate & protein intake and recovery methods, athletes give themselves the opportunity for optimal performance. With greater attention paid to educating student-athletes earlier, we, as coaches, can improve the overall competitive landscape for our beloved sports.

References

Beck, K. L., Thomson, J. S., Swift, R. J., & von Hurst, P. R. (2015). Role of nutrition in performance enhancement and postexercise recovery. Open Access Journal of Sports Medicine, 6, 259–267. https://doi.org/10.2147/ OAJSM.S33605

National Strength & Conditioning Association (U.S.)., Campbell, B. I., & Spano, M. A. (2011). NSCA's guide to sport and exercise nutrition. Human Kinetics.

National Strength & Conditioning Association (U.S.)., French, D., & Torres Ronda, L. (2022). NSCA's essentials of sport science. Human Kinetics.

Smith-Ryan, A., Antonio, J. (2013). Sports nutrition and performance enhancing supplements. Linus Learning. ISBN: 1-60797-339-1

About the Author

Walter L. Prater is a certified sport scientist, sport nutritionist and strength & conditioning coach. He works in Killeen ISD at Ellison High School as the Strength & Conditioning Coordinator to improve student-athlete readiness for competition while minimizing injuries.

The future of film is here.

With an athletic department package, you’ll get Focus cameras for your school, which will change the way you see your sports.

It’s automatic.

Our smart cameras record and upload automatically—you don’t have to lift a finger.

It’s smart.

Player tracking technology means there’s no need for someone to manually pan or zoom.

It’s efficient.

There’s only one installation. From then on out, they’re ready to roll—no set up, tear down or logistical hassles.

It’s equal.

Every team that plays in your gym, stadium or field can use the Focus cameras to record, upload and livestream their games.

With Focus Cameras, the simple, flexible livestreaming solution you’ve been waiting for.

Set your schedule to stream automatically.

Coaches set their schedule, choose whether to livestream and the camera does the rest – automatically.

Generate revenue for your program.

The choice of if and how to drive revenue is up to you. Use sponsorships, pay-to-view or opt to offer a free-to-view stream.

Customize your fans’ experience.

Enhance your viewers’ experience through graphics, multiple camera angles, commentary and more.

Get Focus for your gym and stadium when you purchase an athletic department subscription. Learn more at hudl.com/products/focus.

100% of graduates are fully employed.

83% of all graduates received a promotion or started in a new job since they enrolled.

YOUR TICKET TO THE TOP

66% of graduates are full time employed in the sport entertainment industry.

81% of female graduates are full time employed in the sport entertainment industry.

PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE

WHAT THE POLICY COVERS:

COVERAGE A - LIABILITY INSURANCE

Up to $2,000,000 per insured per occurrence/$ 3,000,000 per occurrence, plus the cost of defense, investigation and legal fees

•Applies in the event a member is alleged to have caused injury or damage to others while performing his/her professional duties

•Errors and omissions insurance for claims for damages arising out of a member’s duties as a professional educator, including all defense cost Note: The duty of the insurer to defend extends even to groundless, false and frivolous suits and accusations.

COVERAGE B - REIMBURSEMENT OF ATTORNEY FEES

Up to $10,000 per insured per occurrence

•The policy provides reimbursement of attorney fees in a broad range of situations not included under Coverage A. This includes allegations of criminal and/or sexual misconduct and employment related actions against an educator involving dismissal, revocation of certification and other professional rights and duties.

•In actions involving termination, salary, reassignment, certification or resignation, the matter in dispute must be resolved in favor of the member to qualify for the full reimbursement of $10,000. However, $2,000 of this amount is available for initial consultation and research, whether or not the member prevails, to determine if there exists a reasonable chance of the case being resolved in the member’s favor.

COVERAGE C - BAIL BONDS

Up to $2,000 premium on bail bonds

WHAT THE POLICY PAYS:

COVERAGE A: Up to $2,000,000 per insured per ccurrence/$3,000,000 per occurrence, plus the cost of defense, investigation and legal fees.

COVERAGE B: Up to $10,000 per claim per Insured. Coverage for criminal proceedings and /or sexual misconduct limited to $10,000 aggregate per policy term.

COVERAGE C: Up to $2,000 premium on bail bonds.

COVERAGE FEATURES:

Criminal/Sexual Misconduct Allegations

The policy provides reimbursement of attorney fees up to $10,000 under Coverage B if the educator is acting in the scope of his/her duties.

Corporal Punishment

Corporal punishment is covered under Coverage A (Liability) if administered according to the rules of the jurisdiction in which the school is located.

Outside Activity

As long as the educator is within the scope of his/her professional duties, the policy covers liability for injury to students and others while the educator is conducting visits to industrial and commercial establishments, entertainment centers, outings, picnics and other similar school functions, subject to specific automobile, watercraft, & aircraft exclusions

Coverage B

Reimbursement of Attorney Fees - Such reimbursement as is afforded the member for actions involving tenure, dismissal, revocation of certification & other professional rights and duties is assured under the policy and is not contingent on the approval of a board or review committee, as might be the case where the only available assistance is from a defense fund.

AM I ELIGIBLE FOR COVERAGE & HOW DO I PURCHASE?

The Texas High School Coaches Association offers a Coaches Professional Liability Insurance option to eligible members with coverage beginning July 1, 2023. The THSCA has chosen the John A.Barclay Agency, Inc. to provide this coverage to our members. This plan was devised to offer liability insurance and legal assistance to THSCA members. In order to be eligible for this coverage you must meet the following criteria:

• You must be a Coach, Athletic Trainer or Athletic Director for an accredited secondary school, college, junior college or university, within the state of Texas. Coverage also applies to classroom duties.

• Your THSCA Membership must be current for the school year in which the coverage is effective – 7/1/23 - 6/30/24

•PROFESSIONAL, AFFLIATE and LIFE members are eligible only if they meet the criteria above. This insurance is not available to STUDENT or RETIRED members.

If you choose to purchase this insurance coverage and do not meet the criteria for eligibility, this coverage will not be valid. This coverage will be in effect July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024 Insurance purchased after July 1, 2023 will commence on the payment received date. This insurance coverage is not retroactive.

Payment should be made directly to the THSCA. The total 23/24 annual premium for the insurance coverage will be $58.00 per member.

Annual Insurance Premium:

State Taxes and Fees (4.925%):

$ 53.00

$ 2.61

Association Administrative Fee: $ 2.39

TOTAL 2023/24 Annual Premium: $ 58.00

Checks should be made payable to: THSCA

Mail payment to: THSCA, P.O. Box 1138, San Marcos, TX 78667 DO NOT MAIL PAYMENT to the Barclay Agency.

Eligible members will be able to purchase the Coaches Professional Liability Insurance on the THSCA website, or by selecting to purchase the coverage on the THSCA membership application form and submitting it by fax, email or mail to the THSCA office with the insurance payment. NOTE: In order to be eligible to purchase the coverage your membership must be current for the same year of policy coverage. (7/1/23-6/30/24)

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF

Do you have the financial ability to defend yourself in the event of claim?

Do you have the expertise to find the best legal counsel for your situation?

THIS IS NOTA CERTIFIED COPY OF THE POLICY BUTA SUMMARY AND IS PROVIDED FOR REFERENCE ONLY. ALLCOVERAGE PROVIDED UNDER THE TERMS OF THE POLICY IN THE EVENT OF A LOSS OR OCCURRENCE IS SUBJECT TO THE EXCLUSIONS AND CONDITIONS CONTAINED IN THE MASTER POLICY ON FILE WITH THE POLICYHOLDER, INCLUDING ALL AMENDMENTS, ENDORSEMENTS, AND ADDITIONS. QUESTIONS REGARDING SPECIFIC INSURANCE POLICY COVERAGE

FOR OFFICE USE ONLY

THS

A

D ATE OF BI R TH : / /

P.O. DRAWER 1138, SAN MARCOS, TX 78667 512.392.3741 OFFICE info@thsca.com

GENDER: M F

I agree to receive THSCA Email Updates & Reminders.

The THSCA membership year will run from July 1st to June 30th of the following year, congruent with UIL and academic calendars. A portion of every membership fee goes to the THSCEF as an education fee. Applications submitted for individuals who are not current members of the THSCA, will be issued a membership for the CURRENT year, and given immediate access to THSCA online member services. The membership fee will NOT be pro-rated. If the applicant already has a current membership when submitting this application, the fee will be considered a renewal and be applied for the upcoming membership year.

1. SEL E C T MEMBERS H IP TO PURCHASE :

P ROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHI P

Shall include all coaches and athletic administrators employed at a school in Texas under the direction of the University Interscholastic League. ($90 after 10/15/2023)

AFFILI ATE MEMBERSHI P

RETIRED MEMBERSHI P

Shall include all members in good standing of the THSCA, who have completed their coaching career and are no longer employed by an educational institution of any kind.

S T UDENT MEMBERSHI P

PAYMENT

REGISTRATION

$60 If paid by 6/1.

$75 If paid between 6/2 - 7/1. NO REFUNDS OR TRANSFERS ACCEPTED AFTER JULY 1ST. On-site Registration fee will be $90 per person.

STUDENT REGISTRATION - $25

O

THER ITEMS: BENEVOLENCE FUND DONATION (Increments) (THSCA MEMBER DONATION) (Increments) (THSCA MEMBER DONATION)

POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE P ROFESSIONAL LIA B ILI TY I N S U RANC E See Eligibility Requirements for Professional Liability Insurance Coverage *

**2023-2024 COACHES PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE CRITERIA**

Coverage effect 7/1/23 through 6/30/24. Coverage purchased after 7/1/23 will commence on the payment received date. This coverage is not retroactive. You must be a Coach, Athletic Trainer or Athletic Director for an accredited secondary school, college, junior college or university, within the state of Texas. Coverage also applies to classroom duties. Your THSCA membership must be current for the 23-24 school year to be eligible to purchase this coverage. If you choose to purchase this coverage & do not meet the criteria for eligibility, this coverage will not be valid.

(Annual Premium $53.00; State Taxes & Fees (4.925%) $2.61; Association Admin. Fee $2.39; TOTAL 23-24

Renewal Premium: $58.00)

1.

2. 3.

UPDATE YOUR MEMBER PROFILE:

1. The first time visiting the new portal you will be required to set up a new password, so select the Forgot your Password? option. Your username will be the email address we have on file for your member account.

2. The system will email a link/verification code for you to verify your account and set-up a new password. (If you have any difficulty remembering the email address you used for account set-up, or you do not receive the verification email to reset your password, please call our THSCA office 512.392.3741 and we can assist you.)

3. Once you have logged in, click on the Round Grey User icon on the top right and select “Update Profile/View My Membership”

at the top to update your THSCA profile info, renew your membership for 2023-2024, and register for Coaching School.

Membership & Event Registration:

The THSCA member portal functions as a shopping cart experience. If you would like to pay for multiple things at once, (example: Membership, Coaching School Registration, Liability Insurance, etc.) you will need to add them ALL to your shopping cart before proceeding to check out.

To Renew your Membership:

1. Click on the Round Grey User icon on the top right and select “Update Profile/RENEW Membership”

4. Select the pencil icon under “My Personal Information” to update your contact data.

2. Click on the Membership tab, and you should find an option to Renew at the bottom.

3. Select the appropriate membership type and hit the Next button to proceed.

5. Under “Communication Preferences” please OPT-IN to receive THSCA Updates & Reminders via email throughout the year.

4. Read the disclaimer information and check the box marked “Above Read.” Also please select an option on your Texas Coach magazine delivery preference. Then click Next.

5. Select any add-ons, including a Political Action Committee Donation, Benevolence Donation or Professional Liability Insurance. Then click Next.

6. You will be prompted with a summary of your selections. When you are satisfied with your selections, choose Add to Cart.

To Register for an event, like Coaching School:

1. Click on the Events tab on the menu at the top and select Browse Events.

REAdy to checkout?

1. Click on the shopping cart icon to view the summary of selected items to purchase.

2. When you are satisfied with the summary click, CHECK OUT.

2. Select the event you would like to register for:

3. And look for the Register button on the top right.

3. You should be redirected to the Checkout screen to proceed with credit card payment. Upon completion of the transaction you should IMMEDIATELY receive an emailed, itemized receipt you can turn in to administration for reimbursement if necessary. You no longer have to wait until coaching school to pick up your receipt. If for any reason you do not receive the email, you can always log back into your Member Portal account and print it from your account history.

4. Select the appropriate registration fee and hit the Next button to proceed.

5. Read the disclaimer information and check the box that you understand the terms of registration, then click Next.

6. Select any add-ons you would like (Hall of Honor Ticket(s) or Benevolence Donation) and then click Next.

7. You will be prompted with a summary of your selections. When you are satisfied with your selections, choose Add to Cart.

You should also recieve an email confirming registration for Coaching School if you have registered for that event. (Please remember that THSCA membership for the year and Coaching School registration are TWO SEPERATE fees.)

After you have completed check-out in the member portal you will be prompted to update your profile information. Please make sure we have the correct contact information for you and that your communication preferences are set-up so you can receive THSCA Updates & Reminders emails.

If you need to update the school you are affiliated with in your profile please email your name, THSCA ID number and new school affiliation to info@thsca.com so we can correct it for you.

23-24 MEMBERSHIP

Professional - $70

Affiliate - $70

Retired - $70

Student - $30

23-24 LIABILITY INSURANCE

premium - $58

COACHING SCHOOL REGISTRATION FEES

pre-registration - $60 (Before June 1st)

LATE Registration - $75 (Between 6/2-7/1)

onsite Registration - $90 (7/16 or 7/17 Only)

QUIET AT THE START

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE STARTING BLOCK & START IN TRACK & FIELD

BY: BRANDI NICOLE CROSS Fort Bend Marshall High School Girls Athletic Coordinator/ Head Cross Country Coach/ Assistant Head Coach

As kids, we typically tend to emulate what we see in plain view by the professional athletes in our respective sports. Naturally, as a kid, we do not know the skillset it takes, the tools it may take, nor do we even know the mindset it may take to become what we see in real time. Skillset in most sports prepare an athlete for the next level and hopefully the professional level in most situations, for that is always the goal. In the sport of track, the starting blocks are essential in setting up the entire race; they can either successfully set you up for success or successfully fail you. The starting blocks are a tool used to provide foot support to help one increase initial speed from the start of the race.

There are several benefits to the starting blocks; and if executed correctly, it is then, that one becomes mechanically sound, one can cover ground, and conserve energy at the start of the race. Basically, the starting blocks are there to aid the sprinter to hit the ideal body position necessary to achieve the fastest acceleration from a static position.

For many years as a sprinter and now a coach, the starting blocks have gone through many distinct phases from this view. As a sprinter in the sport, the first thing was to understand early that the starting blocks are merely a tool. From the sprinter mindset an individual must become one with the starting blocks. Everything about the position in the blocks must be angled correctly; if not, the initial push

cannot be executed properly. The first step an athlete must learn is foot placement. There is the foot that you push with and the foot that you pull with, or you take your first step with. This is important because, if the wrong foot is in the wrong placement, you get what is called a misstep or simply what we like to call “walking or stumbling out of the blocks”. The athlete’s POWER FOOT should always be placed in the front, and the QUICK SIDE FOOT should be placed in the back. The traditional way to test which foot is in the front and which foot is in the back is by falling forward. The leg that is put out to stop you from falling forward is the leg that will be placed on the back pedal. Once the athlete has established where each foot goes, then there is the placing of the actual block itself.

The starting block should be placed one foot length away from the line. The power foot will be two of the athlete’s feet from the line and the quick side foot three from the line. This is the basic rule of thumb, and adjustments can be made to accommodate utilizing the block. Be sure not to place the block pedals in close in proximity to each other, and not to place them too far apart, because it will defeat the purpose of the block and then one will be counterproductive. The pedal angle should be at a 45-degree angle, and spine of the starting block should be aligned with the track. Aligning of the blocks, although simple, can play a significant role in the entire block start. Even the slightest shift the wrong way can tamper with a block start.

Finally, step on the blocks to ensure that they are secure in the track. Once the blocks are set, you want to place the toes or the ball of your power foot in contact with the track and the heel in contact with the pedal. The quick side foot will be placed completely on the block. From this point, the athlete will align the thumbs with the shoulders; with the hands placed behind the white starting line in the lane and shift the body weight forward over the shoulders. With the body weight shifted forward, the arms should be straightened with the support of the body weight on the hands. Next is the positioning

to the set phase, which is most vital. The set phase must always be perfect.

This phase of the start will set up the following phases for the sprint race. When an athlete comes up to the set position, they should not be too high or low but exactly right. At this point, angles and alignment come into play. The hands should be right up to the line. The torso and head should be aligned while in the start position. One should be able to draw a straight line between the two. When coming into the set position, the athlete's shoulders should be over the hands and just over the starting line. Be sure not to crowd the line; crowding the line takes away from power, and can cause a potential misstep or stumble out of the blocks. The hips should rise just above the arms, which should be shoulder length apart. Your back leg should be at 120-degree angle, and the front leg should be at a 90-degree angle. When executed correctly, the athlete should remain in the 45-degree angle from the static position. The athlete is to push with the power foot and pull with the quick side foot. The goal is to try and maintain a consistent angle while coming out of the starting blocks. Ideally, one wants to establish one angle and push down the track in the drive phase.

The athlete must push from the front leg and not the back to guarantee that the maxim power is created. If you try to push from the back leg, you will extend to a motion outside the 45-degree angle causing a slow start. The torso will also need to be straight to also guarantee power, when curved or hunched over the power is absorbed into the body and will not be transferred to the track. When coming out of the blocks, the arms should be close to a 90-degree angle moving in a straight line. By moving the arms in a straight line, the legs will follow. Remember: the arms are the steering wheel and the legs are the tires. The importance of the blocks is to help the athlete set up properly to create power, set up to cover ground, and conserve energy for the drive phase part of the race. To become mechanically sound in the blocks is to become a force to be reckoned with in the race.

Below are a couple drills to improve your starting block techniques:

Reaction Drill one

• The athlete will get down into the start position and come into the set position, before moving forward the athlete must clap, the start.

• This drill is put in place for the athlete to react to the gun and work explosiveness.

Reaction Drill two

• The athlete will get down into the start position and come into the set position

• When the coach says go, the athlete will explode out the blocks onto the high jump pit. First step only.

• The back foot must be driven to the 45 degree angle.

• This drill is put in place for the athlete to react to the gun and be explosive.

In closing, the above information is in place to aid both athletes and coaches in executing the block start effectively. Furthermore, one should be able to use this layout to be knowledgeable of the importance of the block start and how it can have a major impact on the start and the drive phase part of the race. Just as there are many ways to get to the finish line, there are different philosophies as well to get out of the starting blocks. All races lead to one common place, the finish line! Who will get there first? Shhhhhhhh…..Quiet at the start.

MOVING ON UP STRATEGIES TO HELP YOU MOVE UP THE LADDER IN COACHING

By dusty gibbs

Some of the best teachers and coaches I have had the pleasure to work with throughout my career have been in the same roles for most of their careers. This is a choice that some make in education, because this is the way they feel most able to help their students and faculty achieve the most success. They truly love their jobs and see no reason to change their current situation, which is very admirable. These people are important in the educational process because they provide a wealth of knowledge and experience that help create stability in their school districts. But for many of us, we want to find a way to improve our positions and strive to be in roles of leadership. Making these transitions can be difficult but very rewarding, if you are fortunate enough to improve your position in your career. If you are looking to make a change and improve your position, there are some strategies to help move you up that coaching ladder.

Don’t just expect to “move up” because you feel you deserve it or you saw a 27-year-old on

tv calling plays in a college game. This is rare, and don’t feel if this has not happened for you at a young age that you are a failure. In order for you to fill a spot, there must be one created on your staff. If this is not occurring, you might have to change districts in order to find yourself in that higher position.

First, make sure you are taking care of the job you currently possess. Sometimes we look too far down the road and forget to be present in our current roles. Most importantly, this includes the job you are doing in the classroom. I was fortunate enough to have success academically growing up, and nothing irritated me more than the “dumb jock” nonsense. Being competitive in the classroom, was important and being a great teacher should be important to you. Often times we are pigeon-holed by negative stereotypes as coaches. Make sure you are being professional at all times. Dress appropriately, engage your students, and be available to your fellow colleagues. As far as your current coaching role, become an expert in what you are expected

ASSISTANT ATHLETIC DIRECTOR - HAYS CISD

to coach. An experienced coach once told me that I needed to know more about the position I coached than anyone in our community. There are so many more resources now to help educate yourself as a coach, that there should be no excuse to not be as knowledgeable as possible. If you are coaching high jump, be the best and most knowledgeable high jump coach that you can become.

Be visible. In order to become more knowledgeable, you need to always be around your more experienced coaches. This can serve two purposes. You will naturally learn more just being around all of that experience, but it will also show those who make decisions on your future that you are willing to do what it takes to become better. If you are at a place that doesn’t cultivate mentorship of its young coaches, you may need to rethink where you work. If you are a middle school coach that wants to become a varsity basketball coach and your varsity team works out on Saturdays, you need to be there. If they ask for volunteers at high school track meets and you are available, you need to be there. If your high school staff is attending a clinic to further their education, you need to be there. If a job comes open at your high school, there should be no doubt in their minds who that job should go to.

We all have our “favorite” sport that we would like to make advancement in, but be sure and be the best possible coach in any sport you coach. The best coaches can coach anything. It is a red flag if you put a lot into one sport you coach and slack off in the other. We expect so much out of our student-athletes and usually in multiple sports, so the least we can do is expect the same of ourselves. Those kids you want on your basketball team may like volleyball more but sometimes they can help out your squad. It goes a long way if they know you are passionate about coaching more than coaching one sport. Remember: you got into this because you are

competitive. Be competitive in everything you do. It will speak volumes about you and make advancement more likely.

Understand the importance of your associations. As a young coach, I never realized how much THSCA did to help me be successful. Giving back to the greatest profession in the world is very important, because they go above and beyond to help you. Coaching School, the Leadership Summit, and any other functions provided by whatever professional organization you are a part of, are important to not only further your education but promote yourself by networking. Their ability to showcase the true professionals in our business is inspiring, and often times reassures us on the importance of the work we do with kids. Supporting these organizations, like the THSCA, by simply being a part and attending these great opportunities can be profound in your growth as a professional coach.

As I have reached a midpoint in my career, I have been so blessed to be around so many great student-athletes, coaches, administrators, and community members. The educational system can be frustrating; but always remind yourself of all the great things that happen around you on a daily basis, and how blessed you are to affect so many people. Be patient and live in the moment. Your time is coming. The many, many roles I have been fortunate enough to fill over my career seemed to have happened so fast and without warning that it made my head spin with anxiety. If I can leave you with some advice when that day comes: you don’t know what you don’t know. Lean on people and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Someone you know or work with has handled whatever issues you are having, so reach out to them! Good luck to you, Coach: and when you achieve that leadership role, don’t forget to help those looking to get where you are at!

THE PHILOSOPHY OF SPORTS

by: danny servance

Head Football Coach at Killeen Ellison High School/THSCA Senior Director - Region 4

ASSUMPTION: The supposition that something is true.

It is important that you understand that we are making four assumptions. You must understand the importance, because the program is developed with these assumptions paramount in our minds.

1. We assume you want to be the best ATHLETE you can be. This is important because when our coaches look at you they see what you could be, and will push you to achieve to your maximum. You will never be allowed to settle for less than your best. This causes problems only when this assumption is false.

2. We assume you expect to play on a championship team. Our practices, our offseason, and our overall programs are designed to produce a champion. To be a champion is not easy, so it is very important that before you decide to be an ATHLETE that you understand we assume very strongly that you want to be part of a championship team.

3. We assume you expect to graduate from high school. Administrators, teachers, and coaches are all working with the above assumption. If you are not in agreement with this, there will constantly be problems.

4. We assume you want to be a better person. We have very high expectations of our players off the field. We work with you to help you become a better person. Once an EAGLE, you are an EAGLE 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for the rest of your life. There are many benefits that go along with being an EAGLE, but along with those benefits are many responsibilities. We will help you become all you can be off the field as well as on the field.

MEDICALLY UNABLE TO PERFORM

There is always a possibility that a player could become injured to the point that he/she would be medically unable to participate again.

Unable to participate would mean that you could not play, but it does not mean that you cannot be an integral part of the program. It is simply a changing of your role.

Your role could become one of assisting in a supportive background role. It would be the assignment of a job essential to the program. We want you in our program, even if you are unable to play.

OBJECTIVES OF THE ATHLETIC PROGRAM

1. Each player receives a diploma and an

education. These are not necessarily the same. The diploma if you follow the plan as set forth by our athletic staff, is easily attained. Education is learning to “pour yourself out”, to learn to make a commitment to something higher and more rewarding than yourself. It is to learn to give; and the more you give, the more you will receive. It is a learning to give all you have and not worry about what others might think.

2. Athletics plays an important role in a school, but it is not independent of the school. We want to play at a level that is very difficult for our opponents to maintain. That level of play is what we practice. It is our goal to play at a little higher level than most teams can.

3. Through the experience of athletics we become better people. It is the intent of the program to teach more than sports fundamentals. Players should develop or improve a genuine care and concern for other people. They should become more accountable and responsible, and learn for every action there is a reaction. They will learn to be positive about this day tomorrow. They should love their country and this great school. "Green and White" will become very meaningful. They will understand the influence they have on other people and use this in a positive manner.

4. They will have fun. Sports is a game to be enjoyed. To be enjoyed, it must be done correctly. Once learned how to play correctly, there is nothing more fun. A definite objective is the absence of tension or pressure. The player will know that his goal is to give great effort. Once he does that, everything else will take care of itself.

5. Learn the schizophrenic nature of athletics. On the playing surface, we need very physical aggressive personalities. Outside the white lines, we expect perfect young ladies/ gentleman. Many times players get these confused. They are tough aggressive away from competition and very meek in competition. These are learned traits and must be practiced and positively reinforced. The ultimate compliment for our program is for the faculty/ students/community people to say because of behavior away from competition, “he/she is too nice to be that player I watch compete!”

A Texas based Football Camp that develops young Quarterbacks & Receivers through proper instruction and training. Established in 1990, Air It Out has left a lasting impact on many young players lives; not only through what they learned on the football field, but through leadership and teamwork exercises that can be used in their professional lives in the future.

MEETING WITH A DIFFICULT PARENT: STICK TO THE PLAN

BY STEPHEN MACKEY FOUNDER OF 2WORDS CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT & AUTHOR OF THE LOCKER ROOM BOOK

It’s not hard to imagine the scene.

The game just finished. Your team lost a heartbreaker. You are exhausted. The list of things that you have to do (before you get to drive a bus home 3.5 hours) is as long as your arm, and just when you think you’ve finally made it through, you hear someone say, “Excuse me, Coach, can I get a word with you…?”

Playing time. It’s always about playing time.

Having difficult conversations with parents is a part of the business of coaching. As parents, they have a right to know what is going on in the program–never forget that they have entrusted you with the most important thing in their life, their kids. That’s why I sat down with Amanda Box (amandabox.org), a communications expert (and wife of a coach), to find an answer to the question, “How do we prepare to meet with difficult parents?”

You can find our full conversation, as well as video teaching on best practices on engaging with parents, at www.thaca.com/4l.

THE FIVE S' S OF MEETING WITH A DIFFICULT PARENT

1. SLOW IT DOWN

When approached by a parent for a meeting that you think might get contentious, SLOW IT DOWN, and schedule a time 36-48 hours after the request. This will give you time to prepare, and give both you and the parent time to cool your emotions down.

As a coach, you are and should be very passionate about your sport. As a parent, they are and should be very passionate about their kid. That’s OK. But to have a productive conversation, that will ultimately result in what is best for the student, you and the parent have to be in your best frame of mind.

While you can’t control the emotional state of a parent, you can help by slowing down, and setting the meeting for a few days after the request.

THIS LESSON IS PART OF OUR 4-L CURRICULUM VIDEO SERIES, watch it now at www.thsca.com/4l

2. SHORTEN THE MEETING

When it comes time to set the meeting, set it with intentional parameters– how long, what will be discussed, who will be in attendance, and what the goal is. This serves multiple purposes; First, and most importantly, it will help you actually accomplish something that is in service to the student. Remember: The purpose of these hard conversations are not to satisfy parents, but to serve students. Secondly, a fixed time meeting helps keep you focused on the issue at hand (and not what “all the other parents” are saying), and keeps this meeting from taking over your day. By having a SHORTER, fixed meeting time, it forces you to get to the real issues at hand before time runs out.

You can set yourself up for success by communicating how you determine playing time, measures of growth and development, and your meeting parameters with parents early and often. Amanda says, “Effective communication stops most conflict before it starts.”

Parent meetings, player/parent handbooks, and regular communications via Sportsyou are all ways to set the stage for how this meeting will take place.

3. GET ON THE SAME PAGE W/ ADMIN

One of the things Amanda suggests is that before you meet with a parent–especially if they are angry or difficult– is to get on the SAME PAGE with your administration. Whether that is your campus coordinator, athletic director, or principal, you don’t want or need to go into the meeting alone.

Having physical or metaphorical backup isn’t about winning the argument with the parent–if you go into the meeting with that attitude the student has already lost– but instead about making sure you are in alignment with the guidelines of the athletic department, and that you didn’t misunderstand something. By meeting with the athletic director before a difficult meeting and laying the situation

out, they can point out unhelpful topics to avoid; policy or legal situations to be aware of; and they can help you see things from a different perspective. But the most important reason to get on the same page with your admin before a difficult parent meeting is to make sure that you have the support you need to lead your program and serve your kids, especially if and when that goes against the perspective of an angry parent.

4. SETTLE IN (AND PRACTICE)

You would never “wing it” on Tuesday or Friday night under the lights, and you most definitely don’t want to wing a difficult conversation with a parent. Just like you would game plan for a game, prepare a game plan for this conversation. SETTLE IN and practice this meeting.

If you don’t have a lot of experience with difficult conversations, practice with an assistant coach or a spouse. Think about what you will do to maintain a professional decorum, stay on task, and hear what is beneath the complaints. Practice coming back to the communications you have sent out in the past about how playing time is determined or how discipline situations will be handled.

As a coach, you are the representative of the district to your parents. Professionalism (and common sense) requires that you bring your very best to this meeting. And you can’t bring your best, if you don’t practice.

5. STICK TO THE PLAN

One of the scariest parts of confrontation, or difficult conversations for people is the fear of, “What do I do if they say something I wasn’t prepared for?”

Amanda Box’s answer is simple: STICK TO THE PLAN. Specifically she says, “You don’t have to answer questions or make commitments you aren’t prepared to answer or make.” If something comes up that you are unsure about, aren’t clear on the correct answer, or are caught off guard by, simply say, “Let me check on that, and I will get you an answer by Friday.”

The catch is, however, that you actually have to get back with them by Friday. As a leader, you don’t have to know everything, but you do have to do everything you say you will do. So, if you don’t intend to get back with them, don’t say you will. Trust is built by doing what you say you will do, not by being all-knowing or making policy on the fly. So, when you get into a conversation with a parent, and something comes up that you aren’t sure on, 1) physically write down what you need to get clarity on; 2) at the end of the meeting, restate what you are going to get clarity on and when you will communicate it; and 3) do what you said you would do.

When you do that, it allows you to stick to the plan you and your administration came up with; relieves the fear of being caught off guard by something; and gives you the opportunity to build trust by doing what you said you would do.

This article was written by Stephen Mackey (@MackeySpeaks), founder of 2Words Character Development (www.2Words.tv), and is a part of the 4L’s: Listen, Learn, Love, and Lead Curriculum written by Stephen for the THSCA I.D.E.A committee. For more information, or to access the 4L’s Curriculum, visit www.thsca.com/4l, or contact Coach Mackey directly at 979-777-3022.

You are going to have to meet with difficult parents, it's a part of the business. But those meetings don’t have to be difficult–just remember the “5 Ss” of Meeting with Difficult Parents:

SLOW IT DOWN

SHORTEN THE MEETING

SAME PAGE WITH ADMINISTRATION

SETTLE IN AND PRACTICE STICK TO THE PLAN!

And for more great communication practices for athletes, coaches, and parents, reach out to Amanda Box (Twitter: @box_amanda; Website: AmandaBox.org)