14 minute read
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 student-athletes. 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!!
