TEXAS COACH - (ISSN 0040-4241) - Copyright 2024 Texas High School Coaches’ Association, Inc.
PUBLISHER
TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL COACHES ASSOCIATION, INC.
PUBLISHING/EDITORIAL OFFICES:
2553 N INTERSTATE 35 FRONTAGE RD SAN MARCOS, TX 78666-5924 web: www.thsca.com
Subscriptions: Annual subscription to TEXAS COACH for members of the Texas High School Coaches Association is $20.00, which is included in the THSCA membership dues. For non-members, digital versions of the magazine may be accessed for free at www.thsca.com. Single copies are $5.00 per current volume. TEXAS COACH is published monthly except in June, July, and August and is dated the first of the publication month, although it is mailed around the 10th of the publication month.
Change of address: Request for change of address must reach us 30 days before the date of issue with which it is to take effect. Duplicate copies cannot be sent to replace those undelivered through failure to send advance notice. Email change of address notice to admin@thsca.com or members can go online and make the change in your member portal profile at www.thsca.com.
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TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL COACHES ASSOCIATION P.O. Drawer 1138
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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
JOE MARTIN joemartin@thsca.com
ASSISTANT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
GLEN WEST glenwest@thsca.com
Chief Operating Officer of THSCA BRIAN POLK brianpolk@thsca.com
Chief Operating Officer of THSCEF LIBBY PACHECO libbypacheco@thsca.com
Director of Publications & Technology BECKY ADAMS beckyadams@thsca.com
Director of Administration
MARGARET BEYER margaretbeyer@thsca.com
Director of Media & Marketing
ANNA BUCKALEW annabuckalew@thsca.com
Director of Exhibits & Sponsorships MOLLY FLY mollyfly@thsca.com
Director of Membership
ALLIE HERRMANN allieherrmann@thsca.com
SHERYL HONEYCUTT sherylhoneycutt@thsca.com
Director of Hotels & Hospitality
CHELSEA MILLER chelseamiller@thsca.com
Director of Finance & Accounting
KEVIN SMITH kevinsmith@thsca.com
Director of Public Relations & Awards
TYLER WATTS tylerwatts@thsca.com
thsca OFFICERS & BOARD OF DIRECTORS -
BOARD OF DIRECTORS COMMITTEES for 2024-2025:
Finance: Sterling Doty, Dave Henigan, B.J. Gotte, *Kendall Miller, John Snelson, Drew Sanders
Bylaws: Chip Darden, *Chad Dunnam, Joe Hubbard, Todd Quick, Shaun McDowell, Leo Mireles
Ethics: Chris Cochran, *LaQueisha Dickerson, Clint Hartman, Don Hyde, Marvin Sedberry Jr., Fred Staugh
Policy: Jerry Carpentier, Josh Gibson, Brian Randle, *Aaron Roan, Jacob Thompson, Todd Winfrey
Magazine: Kevin Crane, Jeff Ellison, Reuben Farias, Allen Gratts, *Lance Moffett, Juan Morales
Hall of Honor: Dub Farris, Gary Joseph, *Johnny Taylor, Allen Wilson *Denotes Chair
Director-Elects & Alternates:
DIRECTOR-ELECTS
Region 1 – Andy Cavalier, Canadian; Region 2 – Casey Pearce, Breckenridge; Region 3 – Josh Gibson, Pleasant Grove; Region 4 – Michael Pry, El Paso Coronado; Region 5 – Brian Randle, Randle; Region 6 – Don Hyde, La Vega; Region 7 – Ben Bitner, CC Veterans Memorial; Region 8 – Eddie Salas, San Antonio Harlan;
1ST ALTERNATES
Region 1 – Jason Richards, Muleshoe; Region 2 – Sammy Burnett Brownwood; Region 3 – Marcus Shavers, North Forney; Region 4 – Daren Walker, El Paso Franklin; Region 5 – Rick LaFavers, Ridge Point; Region 6 – Clint Fuller, Kilgore; Region 7 – David Sanchez, Laredo United; Region 8 – Tony Salazar, Westlake;
2nd ALTERNATES
Region 1 – Aaron Dunnam, Dumas; Region 2 – Mike Reed, Gordon; Region 3 – Antonio Wiley, Coppell; Region 4 – Frank Maldonado, Midl. Legacy; Region 5 – Travis Reeve, El Campo; Region 6 – Shane Tolleson, Waxahachie; Region 7 – JC Ramirez, Jr., Veterans Memorial; Region 8 – Doug Warren, Wimberley;
chip darden region 1 - lub. cooper
chad dunnam region 1 - amarillo
kendall miller past-Pres - emerson
drew sanders Pres-elect - vandegrift
john snelson President - dickinson
dave henigan region 3 - denton ryan
sterling doty region 2 - stephenville
aaron roan region 2 - abl. cooper
kevin crane region 2 - midway
todd winfrey region 1 - canyon
clint hartman region 4 - midl. legacy
fred staugh region 4 - monahans
marvin sedberry jr. region 3 - terrell
josh gibson (interim) region 3 - Pleasant Grove
allen gratts region 3 - arl. bowie
b.j. gotte (interim) region 5 - pearland
laqueisha dickerson region 5 - timberview
shaun mcdowell
brian randle (interim)
jeff ellison
jerry carpentier
chris cochran
jacob thompson
lance moffett
reuben farias
2024-2025 THSCA ADVISORY COMMITTEES
ATHLETIC DIRECTORS
R-1 Jason Richards, Muleshoe
R-2 Russell Lucas, Sweetwater
R-3 Seth Stinton, Melissa
R-4 *Jaime Boswell, Andrews
R-5 Virginia Flores, Cy-Fair
R-6 Don Drake, Ennis
R-7 Rob Davies, Harlingen
R-8 Stan Laing, Northside
ATHLETIC TRAINERS
R-1 Steven Ortiz, Midl. Legacy
R-2 Billy Abbe, Abilene
R-3 *Mike Harrison, Allen
R-4 Isaac Wimberley, Lub. Cooper
R-5 Aimee Williams, Fort Bend
R-6 Greg Goerig, Midlothian
R-7 Benjamin Garcia, Harlingen
R-8 Chad Hennessey, Georgetown
AQUATICS
R-1 OPEN
R-2 Casey Pacheco, Abl. Wylie
R-3 Eric Vogan, Texas High
R-4 *Michael Waldmann, Andrews
R-5 Robert Kelly, Pasadena
R-6 Daniel Gonzalez, Longview
R-7 Hector Castaneda Jr., Harl. South
R-8 Kari Brothers, Northside
BASEBALL
R-1 Thomas Brockman, Idalou
R-2 Allen McGee, Graham
R-3 Josh Wheeler, Muenster
R-4 Juan Orozco, EP Coronado
R-5 *Corey Cephus, Cy-Ranch
R-6 Matthew Anderson, Franklin
R-7 Adrian Alaniz, Sinton
R-8 Tom Alfieri, SA Churchill
BOYS BASKETBALL
R-1 Jason Pillion, Amarillo
R-2 *C.J. Villegas, Brady
R-3 Ty Tabor, Krum
R-4 Jason Archibald, Wink
R-5 Danny Russell, Friendswood
R-6 Jake Russ, Franklin
R-7 Sean Armstrong, G. Portland
R-8 Andrew Brewer, Alamo Heights
At-Large Samuel Benitez, North Shore
GIRLS BASKETBALL
R-1 Tyler Helms, Idalou
R-2 *Kenni Patton, Electra
R-3 Donna McCullough, Sachse
R-4 Steve Lee, Pebble Hills
R-5 Christina Jamerson, Dulles
R-6 Marcus Willis, La Vega
R-7 Ashley Moncivaiz, Harlingen
R-8 Christina Camacho, Judson
At-Large Brooke Brittain, Mansfield
BOYS CROSS COUNTRY
R-1 Jay McCook, Canadian
R-2 Glenn Griffin, Holliday
R-3 *Logan Kelly, Lovejoy
R-4 Alonzo Samaniego, Presidio
R-5 Kenneth Decuir, Paetow
R-6 Josh Sypert, Eustace
R-7 Efrain Ambriz, Harlingen
R-8 Kelly Thompson, Leander Rouse
GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY
R-1 Ray Baca, Canyon
R-2 Loy Triana, Burkburnet
R-3 *Susan Bailey, Highland Park
R-4 Corina Marrufo, Del Valle
R-5 Jim Darcey, Katy
R-6 Edward DeLaCruz, Waxahachie
R-7 Joey Rendon, Santa Gertrudis
R-8 Rachel Freeman, SA Reagan
At-Large Karmen Sanders, Taylor
FOOTBALL
6-Man Josh Stanaland, Jayton
R-1 Jason Richards, 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 Clint Fuller, Kilgore
R-7 Brent Davis, G. Portland
R-8 Alan Haire, Jarrell
BOYS GOLF
R-1 Justin Wilborn, Lub. Cooper
R-2 Jason Hodges, Stephenville
R-3 Charlie Means, Denison
R-4 Paul Bustamante, Pebble Hills
R-5 *Mike Martin, Memorial
R-6 Brant Bennett, Midlothian Heritage
R-7 Celso Gonzalez, McAllen Mem.
R-8 Glenn Phair, New Braunfels
At-Large Paige Martin, Southlake
GIRLS GOLF
R-1 OPEN
R-2 Chris Sims, Abilene Cooper
R-3 Kerry Gabel, FM Marcus
R-4 Shawn Trousdale, Eastwood
R-5 *Angela Chancellor, Kingwood Park
R-6 Joel Davenport, Ennis
R-7 Jennifer Ruiz, McAllen
R-8 Patrick Pruitt, Westlake
At-Large Brent McCuiston, Alamo Heights
BOYS SOCCER
R-1 Hugo Aguillon, West Plains
R-2 Justin Rhodes, Stephenville
R-3 Pablo Regalado, Kemp
R-4 OPEN
R-5 *Ben Powell, Bellville
R-6 OPEN
R-7 Julian Robles, Harl. South
R-8 David Rogers, SA Lee
At-Large Jason Meekins, Katy Jordan
GIRLS SOCCER
R-1 Alistair Caldwell, Lub. Coronado
R-2 Carl Wiersema, WF Rider
R-3 Kelly Thompson, Allen
R-4 OPEN
R-5 *Evelyn Torres, Ridge Point
R-6 Gerald Slovacek, Midlo. Heritage
R-7 OPEN
R-8 Bailee Perrine, Dripping Springs
At-Large Aaron McGough, Highland Park
SOFTBALL
R-1 Styler Haddock, Canyon
R-2 Cynthia Herrera, Stamford
R-3 *Kathy Schoettle, Allen
R-4 Lindsie Swarb, Monahans
R-5 Katie Roberts, Brenham
R-6 Same Weeks, Troup
R-7 Audra Troutman, Sinton
R-8 Jennifer Fox, Alamo Heights
TENNIS
R-1 OPEN
R-2 *Carrie Castleberry, Vernon
R-3 Sylvia Sims, Frisco Heritage
R-4 OPEN
R-5 Daniel Marshall, A&M Consol.
R-6 OPEN
R-7 Eddie Marquez, Roma
R-8 OPEN
BOYS TRACK & FIELD
R-1 Jon Murphy, Stratford
R-2 Andy Howard, Goldthwaite
R-3 *Janson Head, Denton Ryan
R-4 Brien Burchett, Greenwood
R-5 Jason Haddock, Clements
R-6 Josh Rankin, Longview
R-7 Bob Bechtold, McAllen
R-8 OPEN
GIRLS TRACK & FIELD
R-1 Crista Jones, Lub. Monterey
R-2 *Jeremiah Butchee, Stephenville
R-3 Ashley Broom, Sunnyvale
R-4 Robert Ontiveroz, Monahans
R-5 David Pollack, Seven Lakes
R-6 Jordan Johnson, Midway
R-7 Stacy Zamzow, Goliad
R-8 Jen McHugh, SA Reagan
VOLLEYBALL
R-1 Kelly Lozada, Lubbock Monterey
R-2 Shay Douglas, Stephenville
R-3 Jennifer Chandler, Northwest
R-4 Heather Archibald, Wink
R-5 Jenny Adcock, Stratford
R-6 Arden Johnson, Troup
R-7 Jess Odem, Goliad
R-8 *Rachel Torvik, SA Reagan
At-Large Kayla Allen, Vista Ridge
BOYS WRESTLING
R-1 Dalton Clear, Canyon
R-2 OPEN
R-3 *Kyle Stevens, Anna
R-4 Oscar Norez, EP Montwood
R-5 Vinnie Lowe, Katy
R-6 Collin Stroner, Midlothian Heritage
R-7 Donald "Ed" Arvin, CC Veterans Memorial
R-8 David Burdick, Vista Ridge
GIRLS WRESTLING
R-1 *Tyler Frausto, Canyon
R-2 OPEN
R-3 Tiffany Mangini, Flower Mound
R-4 Stephen Scott, EP Franklin
R-5 Nicholas Johnson, Cy-Woods
R-6 OPEN
R-7 Ronald Pratt, Rio Grande City
R-8 Garvin Smith, San Marcos
*DENOTES CHAIR
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FROM THE PRESIDENT
September 2024 THSCA Coaches,
I am truly humbled to be chosen to serve the best coaches in the nation as the THSCA President for 2024-2025. The THSCA is not only the Gold Standard for coaches’ associations it is the largest of its kind in the world with a membership of 27,529. Watching Kendall Miller lead our association over the past year with professionalism, wisdom, and passion has been such an inspiration to me. And the humble leadership before Kendall of Lee Wiginton reminds me every day that we are here to serve our kids, districts, and communities. I also want to congratulate my friend Drew Sanders on his election as THSCA President-Elect at coaching school in July.
Our 92nd annual Coaching School in San Antonio was the largest we have ever seen, thank you for attending. We ended up with 18,760 attendees. It was great to see coaches from all over the state in attendance, as well as coaches from all sports. Numbers like this just do not happen; Joe Martin and Glen West, with the help of Libby Pacheco, Brian Polk, and the rest of the THSCA staff have done a magnificent job of making sure that Coaching School is beneficial for coaches of all sports. We had incredible speakers and outstanding demos that drew standing-room-only crowds. If you have not done so, please download your THSCA membership card from your member portal account. You can screenshot it for your phone or print it for your wallet. (Printing instructions on how to download your card are on page 16)
Congratulations to our 2024 Hall of Honor Inductees! The 64th class was remarkable as Lee Bridges, Ken Cook, Chris Koetting, Mel Maxfield, and Jack Murphy were inducted. The Hall of Honor Banquet is one of the major highlights of our convention, and this one did not disappoint. Please plan to attend next year’s Hall of Honor Banquet if you have not before, you will not regret it. Nominations for the THSCA Hall of Honor are due by October 15th, and you can see the list of nominees on page 8 of this issue of Texas Coach.
Thank you for your participation in “Our Day to Shine”. I would like to encourage all of us to do this in ALL sport scrimmages as we move throughout the year. These donations help bolster our Benevolence Fund which allows us to give our coaches and athletes help in their times of need. Along with “Our Day to Shine” we ask that you use your first home district game (in each sport) for Officials Appreciation. An instructional kit is available for download on the THSCA website.
I want to wish you all good luck in your upcoming season. To be called “Coach” is unbelievably special; it is an honor that we should not take lightly. Let us take pride in everything we do and continue to lead from the front as we serve and represent our communities this year.
John Snelson, THSCA President
HALL of HONOR NOMINEES
AS OF SEPTEMBER 1, 2024
Below is a current list of nominees for the THSCA Hall of Honor. Deadline for nominating a coach for the Hall of Honor is
OCTOBER 15, 2024. For guidelines on nominating candidates for consideration and the criteria for entrance into the Hall of Honor please see rules on THE adjoining page. Once a candidate is nominated they will remain on the list and are considered every year and do not have to be “re-nominated”. For those already nominated, we advise sending letters of recommendation.
ACREE, JIM
ADAMS, JOHN R. "Sparky"
AGNEW, CRAIG
ALLEN, BILL
ANDERSON, HENRY
ANDERSON, JAMES BARLOW
ASHMORE, LEE ROY
BACA, EDDIE
BAKER, DALE
BALDRIDGE, HARLAN W.
BARBAY, CURTIS
BARRETT, HAROLD
BARRON, BILL
BATEMAN, JIM
BATES, DEAN
BATES, MARION CLIFFORD "Bull"
BAUCOM, JACK
BAUGH, DAVID
BENSON, CARROLL "Skip"
BICKHAM, RONALD
BIRKELBACK, BERNARD
BLOOMER, BEN
BLUDAU, TOMMY
BOOMER, LEWIS
BORCHERT, MELVIN
BORTH, NORMAN
BOTTOMS, SHERRILL
BOURQUIN, DAVID
BOYD, BOB
BOYD, LEONARD RAY
BROOKS, DON
BROOKS, WILLIE
BROWN, BOB
BROWN, ROBERT
BRYAN, JOHN D.
BRYANT, BLAKE
BURCH, TROY DON
BURLESON, EDD
BYRD, ROBIN
CAMPBELL, DEAN
CAMPBELL, GID
CAMPBELL, JUDY
CAMPBELL, STEVE
CANTER, JIM
CAPELLO, ROBERT
CARPENTER, RICK
CARTER, BILL
CARTWRIGHT, JOE G.
CAVALIER, DENNIS
COBB, NORMAN
CODY, JEFF
COOK, MAURICE
COURTNEY, RONNIE
COURVILLE, KERMIT
CRAWFORD, JOHN
CRON, TERRY
CUMMINGS, JESSE L.
CURRY, W. E. "Doc"
CURTIS, CHARLES
DAVENPORT, GARY
DAVIS, BRAD
DAVIS, BILL
DAVIS, JOHN THOMAS (J.T.)
DAVIS, KEN AUTRY
DAVIS, RALPH (BEN) DAVIS,THOMAS (Tommy) WILLIAM
DAWS, BILL
DENBOW, DONNIE
DETMER, HUBERT “SONNY” DERRICK, WALTER
DOEGE, RANDY
DOWLING, RUSTY
DOZIER, BROOKS, JR.
DRENNAN, W. B. "Pappy"
DUBOSE, WILLIAM T.
EDDINS, JIM
EDWARDS, JOEL
EDWARDS, RANDALL
ELZA, SUSAN DR. EMLER, BUFORD
EMMONS, WOODROW "Red"
ETHEREDGE, BOBBY
EUDY, QUINN
EVANS, JOE
FAITH, DENNEY
FARDA, MIKE
FARRINGTON, BILL
FAWCETT, LEONARD J.
FEWELL, VERNON
FILOTEO JR., JOE
FINLEY, MICKEY
FLANAGAN, ROBERT
FLEENER, MARSHALL
FORD, BUTCH
FORD, TIM
FOWLER, MALVIN
FOX, JOE BILL
FRANKIE, JOHNNIE
FROMAN, BILL
GAMBILL, TERRY
GANDY, DAN
GARDNER, WAYNE A. GARRISON, JOHN
GAYLOR, LONNIE
GEORGE, LEONARD
GIBSON, JACK
GIESE, JAMES
GIPS, PAUL E.
GONZALEZ, J B
GRANGER, DON E.
GRAY, DWAYNE
GROSECLOSE, BOB
GUICE, JOHN E.
GUSTAFSON, CLIFF
HARPER, SAM
HARPER, WILLIAM “BILL
HEATH, TONY
HECKATHORN, MIKE
HEISER, JAMES E.
HENDERSON, BUTCH HENDERSON, JOHNNIE
HESS, JIM
HESS, ROD
HICKMAN, FRED W.
HILL, F. L. “Smitty” HILL, HAROLD
HODGES, W. C.
HOOKS, DAN
HOOKS, WILLIAM “WAYNE”
HOWETH, MARK
HUDDLESTON, FIELDING HUDSON, RODNEY
HUNTER, BILL
HUTCHINS, ROY A INGRAM, BILL
IRLBECK, CARL WAYNE IVES, JERRY
JACKSON, KENT
JOHANSON, DALE
JOHNSON, FRED JOHNSON, GLENN JOHNSON, LES JORDAN, THOMAS E. KENNEDY, TROY
KETTLER, ELWOOD
KIRCHHOFF, MARK KOCH, GARY KRUEGER, BILL
LAMBERT, HAL LAPRADE, BENNIE JOE LAURENCE, DONNIE LEACH, DON LEBBY,MIKE LEECH, STAN
LE FEVRE, GEOFFREY
LEHNHOFF, FRITZ
LEHNHOFF, ROBERT LITTLETON, BILL LONGHOFER, JESSIE LUCAS, RUSSELL
MALESKY, GARY
MARTIN, ROBERT L. "Bob" MARTINEZ; HOMER MASSEY, JR., HUGH
MCCANLIES, GENE
MCCOLLUM, JOHN
MCGALLION, RAYMOND MCGEHEE, RONNIE
MCGONAGLE, BILL
MERCER, M. K. METCALF, EDDIE
MICKLER, JR., ROBERT MILLSAPPS, JERRY MOFFATT, JAMES MONZINGO, MATT MOODY, RICHARD MOSLEY, SAM MOUSER, JIM MURPHY, MIKE
MYERS, J. FENNER "SONNY" NARRELL, WILLIAM NEILL, MARION NELMS, WELDON NELSON, CLARK “CORKY” NEPTUNE, EVERETT “Ebbie” NEUMANN, LARRY NEWCOMB, BILL NIX, C. L. NOLEN, TOM NORMAN, JIM ODOM, JAMES D. OZEE, KEN PADRON, DANNY PARKER, LAWRENCE “Ace” PARR, STEVE
PATTERSON , JOHN "Jay" PATTERSON, PAT PEARCE, BILL PEARCE, JOHN PENSE, PETE PEOPLES, JOHNNY PEVETO, ED PHILLIPS, SCOTT POE, DON POOLE, KENNETH PRIDGEON, KEN
PRICE, JOE WILLIE SR. PRIEST, H. O. "HOP" PROFFITT, GARY PUFAL, JIM PURCELL, KEN
PURSER, BILL PURSER, BOB
QUARLES, JACK D. RAPP, RAYMOND RAFFIELD, DAVID
RAVEN, TRAVIS
RAY, REX G. REDDELL, JOHN C. REID, DOUG
REYNOLDS, EVERETT “Sleepy” RICHARD, JOSEPH
RINGO, JOHNNY
ROBERTS, TOMMY
ROBINSON, EDWARD
ROBINSON, MARSHALL "Cotton"
ROTEN,WILLIAM “WILLIE”
SALAZAR, VIC
SAMPLES, REGINALD
SANCHEZ, DAVID
SANDERS, REX
SANDS, JACK
SAN MIGUEL, ARMANDO
SCHULTZ, CARROLL
SCOTT, GEORGE W.
SHAFFER, JERRY
SHARP, EUGENE
SHAVER, A. D.
SHEFFY, JOE
SIMMONDS, LEW
SIMMONS, T. J. "Dusty"
SKIDMORE, KENNETH
SKINNER, JIM
SMITH, BROWN L.
SMITH, DRU
SMITH, HULEN "HOOT"
SMITH, MARK
SNEED, MIKE
SNELSON, JOHN
SNOW, PAUL W. SPRADLIN, MIKE
STARNES, RALPH
STEWART, BILLY
STUECKLER, PAUL
SWANN, HOWARD HUGH
TAYLOR, RADFORD
TEYKL, TIM
THOMPSON, ELMER M.
THOMPSON, MIKE
THOMPSON, PRESTON
TIMMONS, RAYMOND
TRAHAN, WARREN
TRAYLOR,JEFF
TUCKER, CALVIN
TURNER, CHARLIE
TUSA, JOHNNY
VANCE, JERRY
VICTORIC, DONNIE
VILLASENOR, OSCAR “OKI”
WAGGONER, JACK
WALKER, JESSE
WALKER, THOMAS E.
WALLACE, JEWELL
WARREN, JIM
WARREN, STEVE
WASSERMANN, LLOYD
WASSON, HAL
WATSON, JIMMY
WEATHERSPOON, LLOYD“SPOON”
WEIR, BOB
WELCH, JACK
WEST, GRADY
WETZEL, DAVID
WHATLEY, VAN TOM
WHITEHURST, DAYLON
WIGINTON, KEN
WILLIAMS, LEE
WILLIAMSON, AL
WILLINGHAM, JAMES L.
WILLS, JOHN C.
WILSON, TOM
WINSTON, HENRY
WINTERS, ALLEN
WOODARD, CHARLIE
WOOLLS, CLAYTON "Butch"
YORK, TOBY YORK, TODD
THSCA HALL OF HONOR RULES OF ENTRANCE
1. Anyone considered for the Hall of Honor shall have been an active member of the THSCA in the following brackets:
A. 1930-35 - must have been a member for any one year.
B. 1936-45 - must have been a member for any five years
C. 1946-present - must have been a member for a min. of 15 years.
2. Should have contributed to the association.
3. Should have contributed to the coaching profession.
4. Any coach who is a member of the THSCA or retired coach who is an ex-member of the THSCA may submit a coach for consideration by sending a letter to the Texas High School Coaches Association.
Once an individual is nominated, THEIR name will remain on the list with the committee for consideration. The committee will meet in december, all letters should be sent to the THSCA by october 15th. Send your letter of nomination plus a short biography of the nominee (Please provide as much information on your nominee as possible) to:
THSCA (ATTN: CHELSEA MILLER)
P.O. Drawer 1138
San Marcos TX 78667-1138
2024-25 HALL OF HONOR Selection Committee members are: Johnny Taylor, idalou hs (Term ends 2025)
dub farris, Northside isd (Term ends 2026)
gary joseph, katy HS (Term ends 2027) Allen Wilson, John Tyler HS (Term ends 2028)
NOW HEAR THIS
A TRIBUTE TO COACH AYDEN ROSE BURT IN RECOGNITION OF A LEGACY OF DEDICATION AND IMPACT
In heartfelt acknowledgment of Ayden Rose Burt and her family's profound influence on students and athletes across three generations, we celebrate a legacy of dedication that will forever resonate in the Jasper community. Ayden's unwavering commitment to education and coaching has touched countless lives, reminding us all of the profound impact teachers and coaches have on their communities.
A native of Houston, Texas, and a lifelong resident of Jasper, Ayden graduated from Jasper High School in 2014. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science Degree in English from the University of Texas at Tyler. As a third-generation coach and educator with Jasper Independent School District, Ayden began her career with JISD in 2019. She taught English at both the high school and junior high levels while also serving as a cheer and athletic coach.
Ayden’s passing reminds us never to take for granted the impact a coach can have on their community—an influence that often extends far beyond the field or classroom. Part of Ayden's lasting legacy is this important lesson: the power of a coach is immeasurable, and their presence can change lives in ways that will be felt for generations.
Ayden's talents reached far beyond her profession. She was a gifted artist who loved painting, crafting, and spending time by the ocean. She cherished moments spent hunting, fishing, and baking cakes. Above all, Ayden adored her family and the time she spent with them.
Her dedication, talent, and deep love for her community will be remembered and honored for years to come.
Ayden Burt’s celebration of life was held in Jasper, TX, on July 26, 2024, at the First Methodist Church of Jasper, TX.
Obituaries
COACH BRUCE CANNON
Bruce White Cannon, 72, beloved husband, father, brother, and grandfather, passed away peacefully at his home in San Antonio, Texas on Wednesday, July 3, 2024.
A native of San Antonio, Bruce was born on December 14, 1951, as the second of three sons to parents Dorothy and Air Force Senior Master Sergeant James Cannon. Bruce was a lifelong Randolph ISD Ro-Hawk, attending school at the Air Force Base continuously from kindergarten through high school, where he was a 4-year varsity letterman in football, basketball, and track from 1966 to 1970. Bruce earned “All-State” honors as both a running back and linebacker during his junior and senior years before accepting a scholarship in 1970 to play football as a Univ. of Texas Longhorn for the legendary coach Darrell K. Royal. Bruce was a 3-year letterman linebacker at UT and a member of the Longhorn team that defeated the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 1973 Cotton Bowl. While at UT, Bruce met and later married the love of his life, Susan Lynn Zimmermann, on December 27, 1975. Susie and Bruce celebrated over 48 wonderful years of marriage.
After graduating from UT in 1975, Bruce began his teaching career in Northeast ISD, but just two short years later, he returned to Randolph as an athletic coach and an eighth-grade social studies teacher. Bruce received a Master's Degree in School Administration from Texas A&I in 1988, and subsequently became the Randolph Middle School Principal. In 1994, Bruce became the Principal of Randolph Secondary School, a position he held for 17 years until he retired in 2011 after an incredible 46 years spent as a member of and servant-leader within the Randolph ISD community. Bruce will be remembered dearly as a coach, mentor, teacher, and principal to thousands of children, for whom he worked tirelessly to help them reach their goals both on and off the field.
COACH BOBBY DAVIS
Bobby Arthur Davis peacefully passed away on August 12, 2024, at the age of 88 at his home in Lubbock, Texas. Coach Davis was born on March 5, 1936, to parents Samuel Arthur Davis and Allie Imogene Janette (Sparks) Davis in Clarendon, Texas. Bobby and his wife Delmarie were married on May 30, 1957, and celebrated their 67th anniversary this year.
Coach Davis attended and graduated from Plainview HS where he lettered in football, track, and baseball. He attended West Texas State Univ. where he walked on and later earned a full scholarship as a quarterback on the football team from 1955 to 1958 under Coach Frank Kimbrough.
Bobby Davis was a Texas High School Football Coach for 44 years, 38 as Athletic Director and Head Football Coach. Coach Davis began his coaching career in 1959 as an assistant coach at Lockney, Texas. His first head coaching job was at Wilson, Texas where he led the Mustangs to the Regional Finals in 1967. His next head coaching job was at Post, Texas from 1971 to 1975 and then at Corpus Christi Calallen from 1976 to 1980. The last 25 years of his career from 1981 to 2006 were spent at Frenship High School in Wolfforth, Texas where he led the Tigers to the playoffs 16 times, including the State Quarterfinals 7 times and the State Semifinals 2 times. He had 251 total victories, which rank him as number 30 on the list of Texas High School Football All-Time Coaching Wins.
Coach Davis served on the THSCA Board of Directors from 1972 to 1975 and the Football Advisory Committee from 1988 to 1991. He was a THSCA President-Elect Nominee in 1993, 1999, and 2002. He coached the North All-Star Football Team in the 2005, and the South All-Star Football Team at the 2006 ASCO West Texas All-Star Classic. Coach Davis founded the West Texas Football Clinic in 1982 and served as Director of the Clinic for 30 years.
Coach Davis received numerous "Coach of the Year" awards during his career. He was also a 1999 THSCA Hall of Honor Inductee, the 2002 THSCA Tom Landry Award Winner, the 2003 Lubbock Chamber of Commerce NAACP Outstanding Service Award Winner, named the 2005 Wolfforth Frenship Chamber of Commerce "Man of the Year", received the 2009 ASCO All-Star Football Classic Greg Sherwood Service Award and was awarded the 2012 National Football Foundation "Coaching Legends" Award.
NOW HEAR THIS
COACH GLENN HILL
Glenn Curtis Hill, Sr. was born February 16, 1931, in Rising Star, Texas to Glenn and Ollie Mae Hill. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones, August 3, 2024.
Glenn spent his early childhood years moving around Texas while his father worked in theoil fields. His father, Glenn Hill, was killed in a tragic boating accident when he was nine. His mother moved back to her hometown in Huntsville, TX where she later married Edward Stone. Together, they raised Glenn in Huntsville. Upon high school graduation, he went to West Texas to work in the oil fields for six months before going to college at Sam Houston State where he played football his freshman year.
During his time at Sam Houston, he met the love of his life, Mildred Hart. They planned to get married, but war interrupted those plans. After his freshman year, Glenn joined the US Navy and fought in the Korean War for three years, until the conclusion of the war in 1953. When he returned from war, the two were married. Mildred had finished college, so she worked while he finished his degree at Sam Houston State.
Upon graduation, Glenn took his first job as the Head Football Coach at Natalia HS. While in Natalia, they had their first son, Glenn Hill Jr, in 1958. He then took the Head Coach position in Falls City, where they had their second son, Larry Hill. In 1962, he accepted the HFC/AD position at East Central HS, in San Antonio, Texas, which he served until 1973. He then he went into school administration in East Central ISD, where he served as Asst. Superintendent and Superintendent of the district until he retired in 1986.
Glenn’s incredible career touched the lives of countless young athletes. His impact on Texas High School football continued far past his last day on the field. He served as an ever-present mentor and proud fan as his sons, Glenn Jr. and Larry, as well as his grandsons, Alan, Bryan, and Glenn III went on to become successful football coaches in their own right. Glenn and his wife Mildred were known for their steadfast love of their families and their unwavering ability to attend as many sporting events as possible to cheer on their children and grandchildren. His love for sports and his family was only eclipsed by one thing: his devotion to his adoring wife Mildred Hill, whom we lost in 2022.
Glenn is survived by his sons, Glenn Hill, Jr. and wife Holly; Larry Hill and wife Lori; grandchildren Alan Hill and wife Stephanie; Bryan Hill and wife Lauren; Ashley Brewer and husband Ryan; Glenn Hill III, and wife Ali; great-grandchildren Avery, Austin, Hunter, Hayes, Hudson, Holt, Harper, Grant, and Bennett; and sister, Jean Schneider and husband Bill.
COACH
ROYCE HILL
Royce Anthony Hill was born on March 9, 1974, to Willie Hill and Brenda Hill in San Angelo, Texas. Royce accepted Christ at an early age. Royce was surrounded by family who instilled in him a love for God and to have a servant heart. He would go on to demonstrate that throughout his life.
In his early years, Royce attended schools in San Angelo and Brownfield. He graduated from Giddings High School in Giddings, Texas. He attended and received his bachelor's degree from Southwest Texas State University (now known as Texas State University). While at Southwest, he formed friendships that would prove to be lifelong. To continue his professional career in education he went on to earn his Master's Degree in Educational Leadership from Texas A&M Commerce.
After college, Royce was able to fulfill one of his lifetime dreams and that was to coach alongside his hero and mentor, his father, Willie Hill. Royce went on to impact lives through education in Jasper ISD, Tyler ISD, Hempstead ISD and most recently, Cypress Fairbanks ISD. While in Jasper, Tyler, and Hempstead he was able to do what he loved; and that was coaching young men and women to not only be their best in their athletic arena, but academically as well. He strived to help each child reach their highest potential.
He departed this life on May 27, 2024. He is preceded in death by his mother, Brenda Hill, grandparents, Howard Hill and Ruby Hill and Reverend W.T. Wright and Winnie Wright and father-in-law, Reverend Sherman Robinson, Jr.
Royce is survived by his wife, Tracy Hill; father, Willie Hill; daughters, Avery Hill and Addison Hill; brother, Pechome Larry (Tami); and a host of other loving relatives and friends.
SEPTEMBER 2024
COACH JAMES KAZMIERSKI
Coach Kaz, also known as James Daniel Kazmierski, passed away on April 14, 2024, in Tyler, Texas, at the age of 78. He was born on April 10, 1946, in Lovelace, CO.
Coach Kaz was a beloved figure, never knowing a stranger. Throughout his extensive career as a teacher and football coach, he made a lasting impact on countless lives. Known for his compassionate nature, he was always ready to offer a hug or lend a listening ear.
He is survived by his sons, Chris (wife Niki) and Mike (wife Carla), and his grandchildren, Daylan, Kacey, Piper, Porter, Gabrielle Michna (Boyfriend EJ), Ginger Martin (Husband Luke) and great grandkids Leo and Maxine Martin. Coach Kaz was preceded in death by his wife, Donna, his mother Mona, his father Frank, and his sister Judy.
Coach Kaz’s coaching journey began at Denison HS, where he spent seven years before moving to Waxahachie HS, where he taught and coached for 16 years. He then coached at Bryan HS for 10 years before concluding his career at A&M Cons.HS after two years there.
A Head Deacon at Waxahachie Bible Church, Coach Kaz was actively involved in Grace Bible Church after relocating to Bryan. His passion for sports, especially football, golfing, and spending time with his beloved grandkids, reflected his joyful spirit. He was often fond of saying “Doing fantastic but working on sensational.” This epitomized his attitude toward life. He was just as at home coaching on the football field as he was holding an infant in the nursery at church. Every Sunday you would find him at the front of Waxahachie Bible Church holding the door open and giving out hugs to everyone that wanted one. He truly had one of the biggest hearts a person could have. Coach Kaz will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory be a blessing to those whose lives he touched.
COACH MARK TURNER
Mark Allen Turner, 65, of Idalou, passed away on May 5, 2024, after a four-year hard fought battle with cancer. Mark graduated from Denver City High School and then moved on to West Texas State University. He would then begin his coaching career at Hereford, then Odessa High and finally his 28 years at Idalou High School. Coach Turner was a great Off/Def Line coach for the Wildcats and also was an Assistant Baseball Coach and the Head Baseball Coach during that time. Students loved his History classes, but tried to avoid his detention hall in the early mornings.
Mark was married to Cynthia Streun Turner for 37 years. They were the proud parents of Allison Bennett (Kevin) and Brent Turner (Morgan). Mark and Cynthia spent many hours with their granddaughters Margot Bennett, Cora Turner, and Caroline Turner. Mark was a long-time member of the THSCA and served as a deacon at First Baptist Church of Idalou. Coach Turner will be greatly missed by his family and a very large group of close friends.
PLEASE BE ADVISED: TEXAS COACH magazine will be making some changes to our delivery and publication protocols for the 24-25 school year. The THSCA Board of Directors voted to continue publishing 9 issues concurrent with the school year (SEPTEMBER 2024-MAY 2025); however, due to an extreme increase in production costs, we will only be printing and mailing 5 issues. All other issues will be delivered 100% digitally via email. Those who have chosen email delivery as their preference will continue to receive all 9 issues digitally. Those that select mail preference will receive September, November, January, March, and May issues in their mailbox and October, December, February, and April via email link. We appreciate your understanding as we know this magazine is a very important asset to the value of our association and its members!
wit wisdom&
"Perseverance is the hard work you do after you get tired of doing the hard work you already did.”
Newt
Gingrich
"The most valuable player is the one who makes the most players valuable."
Peyton Manning
“You fail all the time, but you aren’t a failure until you start blaming someone else.”
Bum Phillips
“Don’t worry about failures, worry about the chances you miss when you don’t even try.”
Jack Canfield
"The winner's edge is not in a gifted birth, a high IQ, or in talent. The winner's edge is all in the attitude, not aptitude. Attitude is the criterion for success.”
Denis Waitley
“Friendships born on the field of athletic strife are the real gold of competition. Awards become corroded; friends gather no dust.”
Jesse Owens
"Volleyball: where passion meets precision, and teamwork conquers all.”
Unknown
“My general rule, which I have followed throughout my coaching career, is that everyone doesn't necessarily get treated the same way, because I'm not sure that's possible. But everyone has to be treated fairly.”
Karch Kiraly
“Effort will never be questioned.”
Jalen Hurts
“The will to win means nothing without the will to prepare.”
Juma Ikangaa, The Marathoner's Story
“Worrying gets you nowhere. If you turn up worrying about how you're going to perform, you've already lost. Train hard, turn up, run your best and the rest will take care of itself."
Usain Bolt
“The greatest mistake you can make in life is to be continually fearing you will make one.”
Elbert Hubbard
2024-2025 ACCESS TO THE THSCA MEMBER PORTAL 2024-2025 ACCESS TO THE THSCA MEMBER PORTAL
UPDATE YOUR MEMBER PROFILE:
1. Navigate to www.thsca.com and select the gold button at the top labeled Member Portal Login.
2. 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 initial username will be the email address we have on file for your member account.
3. 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.)
4. Click on the Round Grey User icon on the top right and select “Update Profile/View My Membership”.
5. Select the blue pencil icon under “My Personal Information” to update your contact data. Choose the blue Update button at the bottom of the screen to save your changes.
download and print/screenshot your THsCA membership card:
Your 2024-25 THSCA digital membership card is accessible through the THSCA Members Portal on our website. You can download your member card at any time and choose to either print it and carry it in your wallet, or screen shot a photo of it on your mobile device and keep it ready when you need it!
To print/screenshot your Member Card:
1. Login to the THSCA Member Portal and click on the Round Grey User icon on the top right and select “Update Profile/View My Membership”
2. Click on the Membership tab, and you will see THSCA in blue under My Membership. Click on the blue THSCA letters.
3. Scroll all the way to the bottom of the screen and locate the option to "Download My Membership Card" under Membership Tasks.
4. Your membership card should download as a PDF that you can print or screen shot on your mobile device for proof of membership. Please note if you do not see the download you may need to turn off your pop-up blocker first.
2024-2025 THSCA Registration Form
PREFERRED EMAIL ADDRESS
PREFERRED MAILING ADDRESS
SCHOOL
EMPLOYED
ALL THSCA Memberships include a subscription to Texas Coach magazine, please select your preferred method of delivery: Please note, we will only print and mail 5 of the 9 issues for the year. All 9 will be provided digitally to all members.
ATHLETIC COORDINATOR
ATHLETIC TRAINER
RETIRED FROM EDUCATION
PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE
WHAT THE POLICY COVERS:
COVERAGE A - LIABILITY INSURANCE
Up to $2,000,000 per insured per occurrence/$ 3,000,000 plus the cost of defense, investigation and legal fees
• Applies in the event a member is alleged to damage to others while performing his/her professional duties
• Errors and omissions insurance for claims for a member ’s duties as a professional educator, including
Note: The duty of the insurer to defend extends even and frivolous suits and accusations.
COVERAGE B - REIMBURSEMENT OF ATTORNEY FE
Up to $10,000 per insured per occurrence
• The policy provides reimbursement of attorney of situations not included under Coverage A. This of criminal and/or sexual misconduct and employment
other professional rights and duties.
or resignation, the matter in dispute must be member to qualify for the full reimbursement
$2,000 of this amount is available for initial consultation whether or not the member prevails, to determine reasonable chance of the case being resolved
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.
The policy provides reimbursement of attorney fees
Coverage B if the educator is acting in the scope of his/her duties.
Corporal Punishment
Corporal punishment is covered under Coverage A 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 the policy covers liability for injury to students educator is conducting visits to industrial and commercial entertainment automobile, watercraft, & aircraft exclusions
Coverage B
Reimbursement of Attorney Fees - Such reimbursement the professional rights and duties is assured under contingent on the approval of a board or review committee, where the only available assistance is from a defense fund.
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THSCA Hallof honor THSCA Hallof honor presented
lee bridges
ken cook
by
chris koetting
mel maxfield
jack
murphy
AWARD ACCEPTED BY MAX
AWARD ACCEPTED BY TODD CLIFTON (played for MURPHY)
Curly Hays Award Winner Ronnie Freeman
Distinguished Service Award travis clark
Putt Powell Sports Writer of the Year Felix Chavez
tom landry award winner Coach randy allen
jody conradt Award Winner Brenda Marshall
The future of flag f tba INCLUDES the GIRLS!
Complete the Da as Cowboys HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS FLAG FOOTBALL SURVEY and be entered to win $5,000 in Oakley eyewear for your team or sch l! Scan the QR code to complete and enter!
As the popularity of high school girls flag football grows in the United States, the Dallas Cowboys are working with school communities across Texas to provide girls an opportunity to use the game of flag football as a fun and exciting way to be healthy, to learn values taught through sport, and potentially further their education with scholarships to collegiate intitutions now playing flag football at a higher level. For more information or to discuss partnering with the Dallas Cowboys on this effort, contact YouthFootball@DallasCowboys.net.
Package Value Provides 25 Units of Oakley Eyewear
PUBLIC EDUCATION IS OPEN FOR ALL
BY JON MARK BEILUE
retired sportswriter/sports editor for the amarillo globe-news
Currently serving on the amarillo i.s.d. board of trustees
As one of seven members of the Amarillo ISD Board of Trustees, one of our duties is to visit one of our 55 campuses each month. Each school has a program or instruction that is unique.
Lamar Elementary School has a deaf education program – Regional Day School Program for the Deaf (RESPD). From Lamar, they go to Fannin Middle School, and finally to Caprock High School. Lamar has 30 deaf students of differing degrees of severity from all over the 26 counties of the Texas Panhandle, from pre-K to fifth grade. They are instructed by six teachers and aides.
In a pre-K class with six students, the lesson was on music. They all sat on the stage. Teachers and students played a guitar with equipment set up where they could feel various vibrations on the stage. Their faces were one of excited discovery.
I then went to a first- and second-grade class. There were students from across the region. AISD staff recruits deaf children for the program. In this class of seven under Debbie Thomas, there were children from Borger (45 miles), Dumas (48 miles), Channing (56 miles), Pampa (60 miles) and a little girl from Perryton. Perryton, tucked in the corner of the northeast Panhandle. That’s 120 miles – one way.
Later, as I drove away, it hit me. As war has been declared for a time now against public education from the halls of the state legislature in Austin, it hit me.
Public education takes in all children, takes in all teenagers. All of us. It doesn’t matter the poverty
level, the location, family issues, behavior, or disability. We take all. We don’t get to decide, no, we’d rather not. Your child is too much trouble. You just don’t quite fit, but good luck to you.
Yes, you could say we have to take all of them. But in watching Debbie Thomas on the floor pouring into those kids, it’s we get to take you. And her attitude and enthusiasm for her class is not the exception, but the rule in teaching those with special needs and in mainstream classes not only in the Amarillo ISD but around the state.
To paraphrase Abraham Lincoln, a free public education is the “last best hope on earth” for so many, for many who don’t have any other options. And that’s lost on many in power in Austin, one in particular in Midland, that want to weaken this system for the many and the diverse for the entitlement of the wealthy few.
They want to brush past Article 7 in the Texas Constitution from 1876: “It shall be the duty of the Legislature of this State to establish and make suitable provision for the support and maintenance of an efficient system of public free schools.”
We hear the focus group term “school choice” thrown around a lot. It’s softer, more palatable in place of a more accurate word we all know. It begins with a “V.” Let’s say it – vouchers. We know we have school choice in Amarillo ISD where 20 percent of students go to school outside their attendance zone and parents can choose a school for almost any reason.
There are parents in Perryton who have school choice. And they have chosen to put their daughter in a van to go 240 miles a day round trip five days a week so she can receive an education unique to her, so she can be loved on, so she can make friends, so she can feel valued because she is.
Public education takes all of us because it is all of us. Schools take what students come to us and educate them and prepares them for a well-rounded life after graduation as best as we can.
“We serve the masses,” said Chad Dunnam, a Region I director on the THSCA board and beginning his seventh season as head football coach at Amarillo High. “We take what we got and we go to work. We don’t make excuses. We as coaches do that every year."
“In the classroom setting, the teacher does that. There’s magic in that. There’s beauty in that. I value that. In public education, we serve the best of the best, but also nurture the worst of the worst.”
Public education is a reflection of changing society, of a diverse culture. At its best, it’s a coming together where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
“We talk about education, and athletics is part of the education process. Not only athletics, but fine arts, music, all of those things,” said Dunnam. “It’s about what it means to have the band playing on a Friday night, what it means to have the football team, the dance team, the cheerleading team. To me, that’s public education at its finest. It’s a sense of community like no other.”
The sense of community. While that conjures a blending and coming together, it’s also the look, that a community is not one size fits all, not all homogenized and coming through the doors with the same socio-economic status and cultural background.
“Public education parallels what the world looks like,” Dunnam said. “We don’t live in a bubble. One of the best things about public education is kids learn to live with and work with all types of people.”
The pro-voucher line is tax money ear-marked for public education that can be used as a stipend
for families to pay for private school tuition, which in theory makes private school more affordable to more families.
Yet studies show that states with voucher programs, that rarely is the case. In a number of states, more than 80 percent of private school enrollments in the voucher programs were the same students from the same families as before the vouchers.
In other words, it benefits the select few at the expense of the vast majority. With Texas ranking in the bottom 10 in the United States in public school funding for per student despite billions in available funding, a voucher program will do unnecessary harm to a system the Texas Constitution set apart 148 years ago, further weakening an education system designed for all.
“There’s more to education than English, science and math,” Dunnam said. “It’s learning about different people and learning to work with different people who are not the same color as you, the same economic status. Sometimes we shelter people who don’t want to be exposed to that part of the world and that offends me."
“This world, this state, is very diverse and I want my child exposed to what the world looks like, reflect what the world looks like, and work with people who it’s OK to disagree with and be professional about it. I want my son to have rich friends and poor friends. To me, that’s public education. The U.S. is a total melting pot and a child’s education should reflect that.”
This is what Amarillo ISD specifically and public education in Texas broadly is about, from the deaf child making a 240-mile roundtrip daily to school to the all-state football player from Africa. I hope we as a state never do anything to sacrifice this one-of-akind opportunity for all.
Jon Mark Beilue, a graduate of the Texas public school system, is a member of the Amarillo ISD Board of Trustees. For 37 years, until retirement in 2018, he worked as a sportswriter, sports editor and general columnist at the Amarillo Globe-News. His 17 years as sports editor, from 1989 to 2006, was the longest tenure in the newspaper’s history.
Bring your wife/fami ly for a getaway weekend in the Texas Hi ll Country. We will talk football thru mid-afternoon each day, whil e the wives enjoy everything that Frederi cksburg has to offer. A discount packet has been arranged from several local shops and is avai l able for every attendee. There wi l l be a Social on Friday evening where only the Ladies win the Door Prizes. Updated and Expanded Live Music, Saturday Night Social.
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THE RIPPLE EFFECT
BY AMANDA WOLF-SCHRAMM HEAD SOFTBALL COACH - SMITHSON VALLEY HS & PAST THSCA DIRECTOR
As my time on the THSCA Board of Directors draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the countless hours dedicated to serving our state’s coaches and athletes. It has been a privilege to work alongside such dedicated individuals and to have played a role in shaping the future of Texas high school sports.
My journey with THSCA began as a member, driven by a desire to recognize the academic achievements of our female student-athletes. My athletic director at Elgin, Jim Garfield, introduced me to the association, emphasizing its commitment to honoring students for their academic achievements. Thanks to his guidance, I became a member, opening the doors for my athletes to earn well-deserved academic All-State recognition.
In the 2019-2020 school year, my first at Smithson Valley, I was approached by our campus coordinator and head football coach, Coach Larry Hill. During
a conversation on my softball field, he shared that THSCA, under the leadership of Coach Martin and Coach West, were launching new initiatives focused on diversity and inclusion. A key component of this effort was the creation of advisory committees for female sports. Coach Hill asked if I would be interested in serving on the softball advisory committee, and I enthusiastically agreed. This marked the beginning of my journey serving within THSCA.
When our softball advisory committee convened for the first time, it was evident that Coach Martin and Coach West were deeply committed to bringing diversity and inclusion to life within THSCA. Their approach was incredibly refreshing. Instead of dictating initiatives, they began by asking us, ‘What do you need from us? How can we serve you?’ This genuine desire to understand our needs and provide support empowered us to contribute meaningfully to the betterment of our sport, coaches, and athletes.
Many questioned my involvement in THSCA, predicting little change. External critics claimed that the THSCA’s diversity and inclusion initiative was primarily intended to boost membership numbers. Yet, our initial meeting with Coach Martin and Coach West ignited a spark of hope. Their passionate vision for diversity and inclusion resonated deeply. I sensed their commitment extended beyond mere rhetoric. Then, the unexpected happened: COVID-19. Despite the challenges, THSCA's dedication to coach education shone through as they transitioned coaching school to a cyber format. This demonstrated their unwavering commitment to our professional growth.
In March of 2021, Coach Martin and Coach West asked to meet with me one day. I anticipated discussing speakers for the upcoming coaching school. Instead, they unveiled a groundbreaking plan. To enhance diversity, at-large positions had been created on the Board of Directors, and they wanted to appoint a woman. This news filled me with excitement for the potential impact on female sports and coaches. When they named me as their choice for the first female board member, I was overwhelmed and humbled. Questioning my readiness, I expressed concerns about the challenges ahead, as I'd already faced so much criticism from outside sources for joining the advisory committee. Seeking guidance, I turned to mentors like Coach Garfield, Coach Hill, and my college coach, Margie Wright. I remember my college coach telling me, 'Amanda, sometimes in life if we ever want to make a difference, we have to do things that nobody's ever done.' Those words echoed in my mind as I accepted the position. I knew this was a pivotal moment, not just for me, but for women in coaching and coaches of female sports. My mentor's unwavering belief in the importance of this step and the potential for positive change ultimately led me to accept the position.
July arrived, and with it, my term on the Board of Directors began. As I prepared for my first coaching school as a Region 8 at-large member, a mix of excitement and apprehension washed over me. Doubts crept in: Would the critics be right? Would “we” be accepted? Would “we” truly have a voice and would “we” have a seat at the table?
Those doubts vanished during my first board meeting. I was greeted with open arms and enthusiasm by fellow board members eager to embrace this new era of inclusivity. The reality couldn’t have been further from the negativity I’d anticipated and told by the naysayers. I recall President Elect, Coach King approaching me that Saturday, expressing enthusiasm for my presence on the board. Coach King encouraged me to be a vocal advocate stating “we want to hear what you have to say.”
At that same coaching school, THSCA introduced its inaugural Women in Sports panel. The excitement among attendees was palpable. As the panel prepared, I spotted familiar faces in the crowd: Coach Hill, our head football coach and campus coordinator, and Brian Martinez, Comal ISD Athletic Director.
It was a surreal moment. While Nick Saban was speaking next door, these two influential leaders in my life chose to be present for the Women in Sports panel. Their commitment to supporting all coaches, regardless of gender, was evident. Overwhelmed with gratitude, I thanked them for their attendance. Their response was simple yet powerful: it was essential to support all coaches.
This experience underscored a crucial point: actions speak louder than words. True support is demonstrated through presence and participation.
Over the past three years, THSCA has made significant strides in fostering inclusion and diversity. In 2021, Coach Martin and West made a pivotal decision to expand the THSCA executive staff. They added two new members: Libby Pacheco as Texas High School Coaches Education Foundation Chief Operating Officer and Brian Polk as THSCA Chief Operating Officer. With the expansion of the executive staff, allowed for the expansion of our association's pillars. The organization prioritized four key pillars: Representation, Advocacy, Personal and Professional Development, and Awards and Recognition.
Representation is a cornerstone of THSCA’s mission. The association has made significant strides in this area through the expansion of advisory committees to encompass all UIL male and female sports. Initiatives such as the Athletic Director Advisory Committee, the IDEA Committee focused on Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Awareness, and the Urban ISD Advisory Committee demonstrate a commitment to broad representation. Additionally, collaborations with state and national associations, and the ACC tour have enhanced THSCA’s ability to connect with and serve a diverse membership.
Another pillar of the THSCA is advocacy. Today, the future of public education is uncertain. THSCA plays a crucial role in advocating for coaches and athletes at the state legislative level. They are on the front lines, fighting tirelessly to protect our programs and the opportunities they provide for young people. THSCA also advocates for coaches through representation on the UIL Legislative Council. As learned at this year's Coaching School, THSCA, Athletic Directors Association, and UIL are united in their commitment to preserving the "Texas Way" of high school athletics. The “Texas Way” emphasizes sportsmanship and the spirit of the game. This is a commendable initiative
being implemented to address the urgent need for positive change in today's athletic world. THSCA also demonstrates its commitment to coaches and their well-being through actions such as the Benevolence Fund and Liability Insurance Coverage.
The third pillar of the THSCA is personal and professional development. The organization provides extensive educational opportunities for coaches and athletic directors. Having served on the THSCA board for three years, I can confidently say that this pillar has been instrumental in the association's growth. With the expansion of both male and female sports across all UIL levels, the comprehensive lectures and professional development opportunities offered at coaching school have become indispensable for coaches. The knowledge and skills gained at these events are essential for staying ahead of the curve and providing the best possible experience for studentathletes. After attending my first THSCA Coaching School in 2021, I was so impressed that I encouraged other coaches of female sports to attend the following year. I emphasized that even just one time attending coaching school would be a game-changer. Repeating over and over again there is nothing like THSCA Coaching School in all of the United States. Another significant component of our professional development offerings is the ROCK mentoring program. The ROCK mentoring program has been instrumental in retaining coaches within our profession by fostering a supportive community. Through collaborative partnerships between experienced mentors and aspiring mentees, this program has been proven pivotal in cultivating the next generation of leaders and ensuring the continued growth of our field. Lastly, by bringing together female coaches and coaches of female sports “A Seat at the Table” event creates a powerful platform for networking, mentorship, and shared experiences. These gatherings are essential for
addressing challenges, building support systems, and empowering women in leadership roles.
The final pillar of the THSCA is awards and recognition, honoring both athletes and coaches. Since joining THSCA nine years ago, I've witnessed a significant expansion of awards and recognition programs: Official Appreciation Games, Teacher Appreciation Games, Coach of the Year, Super Elite Team, Coach of the Week, Trainer of the Year, and the newly established Jody Conradt Award. Celebrating our students, student-athletes, and coaches is a priority. I encourage everyone to take the time to nominate deserving coaches, whether they're on your staff or at a rival school. Recognizing and celebrating outstanding work is crucial in today's environment.
Over the past three years, I've been asked countless times, "Amanda, how did you do it? How can I do what you did ?" My advice is simple: get involved and find ways to SERVE. No matter how big or how small , you may think that those ways of serving are, they can make a lasting impact in the progress and change that we are trying to make in THSCA.
HERE ARE A FEW WAYS TO SERVE:
contributing an article to our magazine, serving on the SET committee (open to both head and assistant coaches), serving on the advisory committee, attending regional meetings in February and at coaching school, participating in Power of Influence meetings throughout the year, attending the Leadership Summit in February, becoming a ROCK or ROCK mentor, volunteering to speak at coaching school, and lastly ATTENDING the GENERAL MEETING at coaching school.
The general meeting is a mainspring of our association. It’s a platform for information, sharing the discussion of initiatives, updates and challenges. The
general meeting is where we have the voting on crucial matters of leadership elections. Lastly, the general meeting is an opportunity to foster connections amongst members across our state.
There are so many people I would like to thank before concluding this entry. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my husband for his unwavering support over the past three years. He is the backbone in my coaching career. Without his support, I would not be in the position I am today. He has been both father and mother to our children when I am away as a coach, and he's always been my biggest cheerleader.
When I first approached him about the at-large position, his immediate response was, 'We can do whatever you want to do, and I will support you in the whole process.' His continuous encouragement and sacrifice have made this journey possible. Next, I want to thank my boys for their love and understanding during the countless hours I've spent away from them. I've made a conscious effort to involve them in the THSCA world, sharing magazines and attending UIL events together. Seeing their excitement for our coaches and athletes has been incredibly rewarding.
To my amazing parents, who have always believed in me and supported my wildest dreams. Your love and encouragement mean the world to me. I'm incredibly grateful for your lifelong support. You're an amazing help with the boys, especially when work keeps me away. To Coach Fregia. Coach Pfister, Coach Wright, Coach Rodriguez, Coach Richardson, Coach Lock, and Coach Jund, the foundation of who I am today was laid by my incredible high school and college coaches. Your emphasis on integrity , responsibility, respect, and servant leadership, continues to guide me in every aspect of life. I am who I am today because of my COACHES!! Thank you, Susan Elza and Brandy Belk, for your continuous support. You are always willing to listen and a voice of encouragement when I need a good “coaches talk.” You've been amazing role models, and I aspire to be like you one day. Shanika Randle, my best friend, you're a true champion. You refused to let the naysayers dim my enthusiasm for THSCA. Thank you for always being my SIS. To Coach Garfield and Coach Hill your belief in me and this association is unwavering. Your leadership has been instrumental in my growth. Thank you for being an exemplary leader
and mentor. To THSCA Executive Staff, Presidents, Board of Directors, and THSCA OFFICE STAFF, you simply will always be a part of my family in life. You are all selfless, servant leaders, authentic, and passionate about creating positive change. Your commitment to making a difference every day is truly admirable. I have the utmost love and respect for each of you.
Lastly, I leave you with this, this profession we’re in is undoubtedly challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. I encourage each of you to stay steadfast in your daily work. Even on the toughest days, remember the profound impact we’re making. We are the difference-makers, the encouragers, and for many, we are the beacon of hope. Words cannot fully express the immense pride and gratitude I feel for having had the opportunity to serve you all. Witnessing the growth of our association, representing coaches, students, and all sports across the state, has been an overwhelming source of joy and inspiration. The future of THSCA is incredibly bright, and I can’t wait to see the incredible heights we will reach. We'll encounter naysayers along the way. They’ll tell us we’re not moving the needle. Our response? Action. Let’s show them what we’re capable of. In the words of one of the future leaders in this profession LIZO (Liz Oyervides) “BE GREAT.”
Ain’t Nothin Soft About It!!
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TRUST A COACH
HIGH SCHOOL GOLF: IMPROVING YOUR PLAYER'S SHORT GAME
BY KEVIN CRANE - THSCA DIRECTOR - REGION 2
I have been around the game of golf for most of my life. It is something that I enjoy doing in my free time like most of you isn’t much. I participated in junior golf, HS golf and college golf. My dad spent time as a high school golf coach, as did my brother and I. It’s been my experience that if HS players could save some shots around the green it could really help their individual score and in turn help the team score. Therefore, this article is all about the short game and ways to help improve the short game with skills and drills along with trying to highlight the importance of the mental game.
As most people know, a players short game can have a profound impact on how well they play ,especially at the high school level. How many times have we seen one of our players hit a drive, miss the green on their next shot, and then really struggle to get the ball into the hole with their short game; sometimes hitting two chips and taking three putts. Typically in Texas, the golf courses are not in pristine condition during the time of year we are playing high school golf; therefore, our players must be able to get the ball up and down from a variety of different lies and bunkers around the green. I
believe it is important for kids to spend the majority of their practice time around the green chipping and putting. The following is from Dr. Rotella’s book and an example of how he wants his students to think of the short game. "Practicing the Short Game: I pride myself for investing quality practice time in the short-game area every day. It’s not a chore. I love to practice pitching, bunker play, and putting. I love it when others are on the range hitting balls and I’m in the short-game area, because I know this is where I will separate myself from others in tournament play. I’m in the short-game area first every day. I practice there when I’m fresh because I recognize the short game’s importance. I never forget this. It’s my bread and butter, my pride and joy. I sustain my commitment to the short game and the scoring clubs because I am dedicated to seeing how good I can get at golf. Practicing short-game shots regularly, with quality and focus, is a key to the quest and a critical part of the process. I love this because we recognize that most good players can hit quality golf shots, but it’s the short game that separates the good players from the great players and the HS player that shoots can turn a round in the high 90’s to the mid 80’s."
The following are notes and practice ideas I have collected over the years. A majority of the material comes from reading Dr. Bob Rotella’s books. Dr. Rotella is a sports psychologist who has worked with many golf major champions, both male and female, and college and professional sports teams and Olympians throughout his career. He has written several books - 10 in total - (I have read them all and would encourage others reading this article to read them as well) and they focus on a variety of topics, including the mental game of golf. If you have never heard of Dr. Rotella or his teachings, I strongly encourage you to look him up and read his books. You can also find several articles online as well.
The following are ideas about chipping and putting that I hope will help your high school golfers.
CHIPPING
“You will not be playing your best golf until your wedge game is sharp enough that bad lies don’t deter you, until no matter where you find yourself around a green, you have a chip or a pitch that you feel you can put in the hole. Fall in love with getting the ball up and down or holing it.” - Dr. Bob Rotella
1. Good mental routine. (Visualize yourself hitting a great shot.)
2. Try to hole shots from within your threshold distance. This varies for everybody. “Great chippers are not thinking about getting it close or leaving themselves an uphill putt, they’re thinking about holing the shot.” Dr. Bob Rotella
3. Good pre-shot routine (selection of target and club during pre-shot routine)
A. Look at the target - either cup or point on green where you want the ball to land
B. Look at the ball
C. Let the shot go- without undue delay between these three movements. Typically the longer you stand over a shot the more destructive it will be as potential bad thoughts will enter a players mind.
PRACTICE / DRILLS
Practice situations- tight lies and grassy lies, side slopes and humps, chips and pitches, and bunker shots (it is imperative that a HS player can get the ball out of a bunker in one shot). Practice from bare dirt; you can’t be afraid of blading or chunking it; try using a putter from tight lies around the green. The rule I like to use with players is putt if you can, chip if you have to.
1. Put four tees around the hole at three feet each. Try to hit chips shots getting it inside the tees.
2. Chip & chase with a partner. Both players chip, and the player furthest from the hole must go retrieve both the balls. This is good competition and it puts something on the line while practicing.
CHIPPING NOTES
• Be athletic and creative.
• Good wedge play makes the difference between a lot of putts from ten feet and a lot of putts from three feet.
• As long as rules reward getting the ball in the hole in the fewest strokes, golf will be about playing well with the wedges and putter.
PUTTING
These are the words you would find in the mind of a great putter- “All right! Safely on the green. Now the fun starts. This is going to be an interesting putt. I can see two breaks. Downhill. A real challenge. Neat! I like the fact that my coach has no doubts that I’m going to make par or better on this hole. I like being the bulwark of our team because I putt well. I like the way the other guys’ faces will look when I sink this for a birdie. Okay, now into the routine…”Dr. Bob Rotella
1. Devotion to an unvarying routine is one of the hallmarks of a good putter. Accepting the result is the last part of a sound routine.
2. Your first impression of how a putt will break will be right more often than any other impression you might form. It’s more important to be decisive on your read than correct.
3. When the moment of truth comes, look at the target, look at the ball, and let the stroke go without any undue delay between these three movements.
4. 80% of missed putts come from an imperfection in the green, or a misread of the putt.
PRACTICE / DRILLS
1. Look and Shoot Drill- Try to make five putts before your partner does, the two of you putting at the same time. Look at the hole once, then, without taking a practice stroke, putt the ball.
2. 9-Ball game- Hit nine putts in a row. Start loose and then try to put even less effort into each successive putt.
3. Use Your Instincts Game- Try to make three putts from the same place but at different speeds.
4. Putt to fringe- Try to stop the ball as close as possible to the edge of the green.
5. Chalk-line- Find a straight putt, lay the chalk line down. This is a good drill when you want to work on your mechanics.
PUTTING NOTES
• The putting game is the place to look if you want to get a competitive advantage.
• The ideal golf temperament instinctively loves putting! Fall in love with the stroke you have. Attitude is what makes a great putter.
• There is nothing worse for your putting than dwelling on the putts you’ve missed.
• Every putt is a green-light putt.
• Pick a putter and a putting style that feel good to you and stick with them.
• There is no such thing as perfect putting mechanics. There is no perfect way to roll the ball.
• The principles of good putting will work for as long as your commitment to them stands.
The following is an example of the positive mindset that Dr. Rotella wants his students to have. I recommend that you have your players copy down this quote and post it on their mirror in their room or somewhere they will see it every day. This is the type of attitude it takes to be a great putter.
“I am a GREAT putter. I always make putts when they matter the most. But I am great because I treat all of my putts the same. I give every putt the same low level of importance.
I have a great instinct for effortlessly reading greens. I trust my reads, commit to them. Then I get into my target and execute my routine on every shot. Nothing tempts me away from this process. Results have no impact on me because I just want to make every putt in my mind.
I am playful when it is time to putt. I am very visual on the greens, and I love envisioning the ball going into the hole.
I am positive and patient. I love to putt. The putting green is where the real game begins. I own the putting green. It is my favorite place. It is where I have an edge. It’s where I separate myself from others.”
I hope that some of these ideas can be useful to your team and remember “As long as rules reward getting the ball in the hole in the fewest strokes, golf will be about playing well with the wedges and putter.” - Dr. Bob Rotella
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Clinic Highlights
Features only high school coaches as speakers
1 18 Lectures given by top high school football coaches from Texas
Friday Night OL and DB Chalk Talk
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A discount to B Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World for each coach at the clinic (Good on selected items for the duration of the clinic.)
The Embassy Suites Hotel is located adjacent to Bass Pro Shops and in close proximity to Grapevine Mills Mall and the Toyota Music Factory
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A clinic t-shirt for the first 700 coaches in attendance (Sponsored by The Performance Course)
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$ $1000 Cash door prize after the last lecture Sunday
“Texas Hold-Em” Tournament Friday night
50 minute lectures and 45 minute breakout sessions
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Embassy Suites Outdoor World at D/FW Airport 2401 Bass Pro Drive, Grapevine, TX 76051 Phone (972) 724-2600 or (800) EMBASSY
To receive the special room rate of $159, make your reservation by January 4 and state you are attending the DFW Coaches Clinic. Embassy Suites Hotel provides a complimentary cooked to order breakfast and happy hour each day to every coach staying at the hotel. Each room comfortably sleeps four.
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$80 registration fee if mailed in by January 19 ($90 after January 19, no refunds after this date)
To pre-register, please send the registration form and a check payable to: D DFW Coaches Clinic 30801 Beck Road Bulverde, Texas 78163
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President KENDALL MILLER speaks at the General Meeting
FULL HOUSE IN THE STARS AT NIGHT BALLROOM FOR REGION 5
COACH JOE MARTIN THANKS region 8 DIRECTOR AMANDA WOLF-SCHRAMM
region 2 MEETING ON THE THSCA BASKETBALL DEMO COURT
Newly elected President-Elect DREW SANDERS, VANDEGRIFT HS
recognizing our 2024 class of r.o.c.k. program mentees
texas coach Article of the Year honorees MADDOX DARNELL & ADAM CUMMINGS, WEST PLAINS
tHSCA PAST PRESIDENTS BEING RECOGNIZED DURING THE 2024 GENERAL MEETING IN SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS
keynote speaker DR. CHARLES BREITHAUPT, U.I.L.
president KENDALL MILLER recognizes Past-President LEE WIGINTON
honoring our Texas Farm Bureau Insurance Girls sport Coach of the year KURT RICHARDSON, SHALLOWATER hs
CONGRATULATions to our Dell Children's 2024 Athletic TRAINER OF THE YEAR DEAN EASTER, EL CAMPO HS
honoring our Texas Farm Bureau Insurance boys sport Coach of the year MATT WESTER, PLANO EAST HS
Dear Coaches’ Wives,
September 2024
Welcome to a brand new school year and a fresh season, no matter what your season may be! There is something refreshing about a new year and a new start, at least for me, as I start my 12th year as an Athletic Trainer and coach’s wife!
A huge THANK YOU to all of you that gathered with us in San Antonio this summer for our annual Coaching School and Convention. It was fun, as always, and never fails to both prepare me and excite me for a new year. Hearing from women like Cheryl Jones and Peggy Martin always brings much encouragement and fruitfulness to our lives as coaches' wives. Thank you as well to the THSCWA officers, regional directors/assistant directors, and other volunteers who worked so diligently to make this year's convention a success.
Congratulations to this year’s very deserving THSCWA Woman of the Year, Clara Simmons. It was fun watching you being forced to stop working and listen to the words that describe you. You lead us by example and we are blessed to have your influence and enthusiasm amongst us!
Also, congratulations to our 2024 THSCWA Scholarship recipients: Jonathan Kirk, son of Jeremy and Meagan Kirk at Electra High School, Gabriel Pehl, son of Kit and Lisa Pehl at Coppell High School, Brinley Quinn, daughter of William and Stacie Quinn at Colorado High School, and Mason Willard, son of Eric and Ashley Willard at Rockdale High School. A great big thank you to Erin Smith and her scholarship committee for their difficult work in selecting our THSCWA 2024 scholarship recipients!
Finally, our purpose as the THSCWA is to support and come alongside the Texas High School Coaches Association in maintaining the highest possible standards in athletics and the coaching profession. Our mission is “Standing Beside Our Husbands, On and Off the Field.” So, if you have not become a member of the THSCWA, now is the time to visit our website, www.thscwa.org. It is also the time to start making plans and committing to join us in San Antonio on July 20-22, 2025. You will love the support, friendships, and encouragement that you gain.
Wishing you all a great season!
Justine Palmer txcoacheswives@gmail.com
THSCWA OFFICERS: 2024-2025
PRESIDENT: justine palmer
PRESIDENT ELECT : Clara Simmons
SECRETARY: Kristen Haywood
TREASURER: cynthia griffing
PAST PRESIDENT: misty houston
DIRECTORS
REG 1: autumn softley
REG 2: Angie Martinez
REG 3: melissa leidner
REG 4: GENTRY STAUGH
REG 5: erin smith
REG 6: lyndsey ratliff
REG 7: rita romero
REG 8: amanda aguirre
ASSISTANT DIRECTORS:
REG 1: kayla henry
REG 2: kourtney villegas
REG 3: catherine faught
REG 4: stacie sanchez
REG 5: leigh montgomery
REG 6: liz woodar
REG 7: courtney reeve
REG 8: hillary moore
THSCWA OFFICERS & REGIONAL DIRECTORS
THSCWA regional directors & Assistant Directors THSCWA Past & CURRENT presidents
woman of the year
clara simmons
BEING ABOVE THE STANDARD
BY LAUREN ROBERTSON HEAD SOFTBALL COACH - LEXINGTON HIGH SCHOOL
In a season of no Seniors and four starting-returners, we were set for a growth year. The team had bigger intentions, with higher standards and expectations, they turned heads and made a name for themselves.
Being above the standard sets us apart from most programs. These ladies take pride in what is expected of them. They held each other accountable and accepted the consequences when standards were not met.
1. Classroom Matters.
Just passing was not okay for this group. It was expected that they receive A’s and B’s in the classroom. We discussed that “just passing” meant it was okay to “just get by” or “just go through the motions”. Studentathletes should be held to a higher standard, not just to play sports but to push themselves to be ready for real -world situations. They are encouraged to sit in the front of the classroom, be the ones to ask the questions, and communicate with their teacher of work that needs to be completed prior to missing for competitions. I am proud to say ten of our fourteen rostered made the All-Academic team for district 19AAA.
2. Be Prepared.
From having the correct attire, being aware of the weather, to being prepared for the opponent, it is a constant pivot for anything that comes your way. We called it “get to” not having to change or redirect. Changing your mindset with a “get to” mentality suddenly puts a positive aspect and may be some ease of tension, and even some laughs out of the situation.
3. Communicate.
Teaching young, confident women athletes to communicate and have a voice has been very challenging. Getting them to have those hard conversations and knowing when and how to voice their concerns comes with growth. Communication is huge in success on and off the field. Are they communicating with their teachers, their coaches, their peers? Being a small school, these athletes do multiple extra-curricular activities that involve so much time-management and being able to communicate what they need to miss or if they are running behind in another event. Then there are the hard
conversations of what they need to be working on to earn a starting spot, or not sure of their role on the team. It may have been a hard practice for them, and they were pushed too much. I believe communication should be pushed on both ends! These athletes do work hard day-in and day-out and to hear from the coach of things to work on or help understanding their role goes a long way. If they know you care, you are in it for them, they can take the hard, and they will go through a wall for you.
4. Have an Approach/Plan.
In life, having a plan keeps you on schedule, organized, and helps tackle busy days. Some of the girls say my practice plans are over the top or extreme, but having them know what the plan is keeps all of us accountable. Have a purpose with everything you do. We had many discussions about anticipating hits and being aware of situations defensively. Getting them to know what pitch is being pitched and aware of the batter, to have an anticipation of how to defend the hit. Offensively, it was an expectation to have an approach at the plate and hunt certain pitches or go from a stride to a no-stride approach. Knowing that our team was not a home run hitting team we needed to execute situational hitting to manufacture runs. As a team, the Lady Eagles manufactured 292 runs with 234 RBIs for the season.
5. How you Respond is Everything.
Our biggest standard we held each other to was how we responded. We took notes over the book, “The Energy Bus,” by Jon Gordon. This team was fueling their life with the right energy. From thoughts to reactions, we respond positively to move forward. Negativity was not allowed on our bus. If something is not going the way we want it to, how we respond next is everything. Being able to have the composure that the next pitch is what matters. How can we get out of the situation we are in, especially when the uncontrollable comes into play? Being a young team, these ladies were impressive to watch, and how they responded in situations was astonishing.
I am proud to say the Lexington Lady Eagles love to be a part of something bigger than themselves. There were many selfless moments, many sacrifices, hard work and dedication for their program.
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MENTION
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PUT YOURSELF AROUND G . O
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PEOPLE
BY CHIP BAKER @CHIPBAKER19 ON X
“He GOOD people!” is a saying I would always hear as a child growing up. As I began to learn and experience life lessons, I understood the meaning of the phrase. “He GOOD people” is defined as an impactful person adding great value to our world. Being in their presence made us better.
Reflecting on what I wanted to write about, I thought about my journey: growing up in a small town, playing college football, earning college degrees, having the privilege of being a teacher/ coach/administrator, becoming an author, speaker, ambassador, advisor and a board member. This reflection reminded me; although there was lots of hard work involved, none of those things were achieved alone. I have been blessed to have some amazing people along my journey, in all of those environments. They truly helped mold me into the person I have grown to be today. I have been around some “GOOD People” who taught me great things throughout my life and career.
The “GOOD People” exhibited traits I would like to share with you. These traits will allow you to know what to look for while you are in search of putting yourself around “GOOD People!”
“Pure actions come from pure hearted intentions.”
The first trait they exhibited was that they were GENUINE . They were sincere in all of their actions. It meant something to them to show people that they cared about them. They were genuinely goodhearted. They never wished any ill will on anyone. Their good and kind hearts led to them showing pure intentions by their actions. They always looked out for the people they were around. It seemed like they were organic with the way they showed their genuine care and concern for others.
“Sharing the knowledge that you have been blessed to experience allows the next generation to grow efficiently and effectively.”
The second trait they exhibited is that they were always ON POINT . They were knowledgeable about so much. It seemed like they knew how to do all of the things we wanted to learn. Although they had so much knowledge, they knew when to say the right thing. They would encourage and impart knowledge upon those that were blessed to be around them. Not only were they wise enough to impart knowledge, but they were also wise enough to know when it was the right time to say nothing. In those moments,
we were allowed the opportunities to learn from the tough lessons. They would then coach us up on how to be better from the experience. They were competent in every situation, and in most cases, they knew how to respond to any challenges that came their way. If they did not know how to respond, they were not afraid to say, “I don’t know that, but I am going to reach out to someone who does know, and I will have an answer for you.”
“Common people achieve uncommon things when they do the common things consistently, in an outstanding way.”
The third trait they exhibited is that they were OUTSTANDING . They cared in an outstanding way. People were important to them, not titles and status. They went above and beyond to help others. You could see, by the pure joy they had daily, they loved what they did and the people they did it with. They were outstanding with their compassion. They were understanding and stayed in line with the priorities that were important for life growth. They knew who they were and held firm to their core common values. They self-scouted themselves and always pushed themselves to be better.
“The little you have to give today will make a huge difference in the life of someone tomorrow.”
The fourth trait they exhibited is they were DESERVING . They were worthy of deserving all of the good things that came their way. They deserved the accolades and praise that was earned because they served others. They always put others first. It was important to them to strive to meet the needs of others. They were deserving because they did all of those things not seeking rewards or accolades. They did all of those things because the core essence of who they were was “GOOD People!”
“GOOD People” add so much value to our world and make us better each day. The traits explained come from having the opportunities to observe great
people along my journey. These people exhibited the traits of “G.O.O.D. PEOPLE!” They were G- genuine, O- on point, O- outstanding and D- deserving.
I hope you are able to put yourself around “G.O.O.D. People” that will influence you. This influence will impact you in a major way. It will ignite the fire within you to continue to learn, grow and maximize your potential.
Go Get It!!!
“He G.O.O.D. People!” GENUINE ON POINT
Coach’s Checklist:
No Waiting
The enrollment period for 2024-25 Professional Liability Insurance (7/1/24-6/30/25) is now open. You must purchase 2024-25 THSCA Membership (7/1/24-6/30/25) in order to be eligible for this insurance coverage.
** THIS INSURANCE COVERAGE WILL BEGIN ON THE DATE OF PURCHASE AND WILL EXPIRE 6/30/2025.**
You have the option to purchase online by logging into the Member Portal, or you can visit https://www.thsca.com/liability-insurance to find a downloadable Insurance Regsitration Form. Find more information on policy coverage on page 18.
DIGITAL TICKETING IS NOW PART OF THE FAN ENGAGEMENT SUITE.
DIGITAL TICKETING IS NOW PART OF THE FAN ENGAGEMENT SUITE.
Fan-friendly and easy to manage. Meet Hudl Tickets.
Fan-friendly and easy to manage. Meet Hudl Tickets.
Everything in one place. Fans can watch live games and highlights, see schedules, and now buy tickets, all in one place.
Everything in one place.
Completely customizable.
Choose your pricing, ticket types, capacity and single or multi-game ticketing.
Fans can watch live games and highlights, see schedules, and now buy tickets, all in one place.
No minimums.
There are no minimums on tickets sold. Sell as many or as few as you’d like.
Completely customizable. Choose your pricing, ticket types, capacity and single or multi-game ticketing.
No added cost. It’s free to add Hudl Tickets to your organization.
No added cost. It’s free to add Hudl Tickets to your organization.
More efficient entry.
Each ticket holds a QR code that fans scan at the gate, giving them direct entry in seconds and reducing lines.
More efficient entry.
Each ticket holds a QR code that fans scan at the gate, giving them direct entry in seconds and reducing lines. No minimums.
There are no minimums on tickets sold. Sell as many or as few as you’d like.
Let Hudl do the setup.
Let us know which events you want to offer digital ticketing and we’ll set it up for you.
Let Hudl do the setup.
Better reporting and security.
Digital sales simplify the accounting, security, and reporting process. Get a real-time look at who purchased tickets, tickets sold, and revenue generated.
Better reporting and security.
Let us know which events you want to offer digital ticketing and we’ll set it up for you.
Digital sales simplify the accounting, security, and reporting process. Get a real-time look at who purchased tickets, tickets sold, and revenue generated.
Make your live events easier to attend. Get started with Hudl Ticketing at: hudl.com/solutions/fan/ticketing
Make your live events easier to attend. Get started with Hudl Ticketing at: hudl.com/solutions/fan/ticketing
