3 Minute Drill

Coach Nick Codutti serves as the Head Football Coach and Athletic Director at Klein High School. Throughout his career, he has had the opportunity to coach and learn at a variety of programs, including Fulshear, Tomball, Westbrook, Marshfield, and Glendale in Missouri. He also spent time at BYU and LA Valley Community College. Each stop has played a role in shaping his perspective on the game and how to build a successful program. Through his experiences across different programs, communities, and levels of football, Coach Codutti has developed a belief that success consistently comes down to discipline, consistency, and people. He approaches building a program like running a business—where attention to detail matters and the standard remains constant. For Coach Codutti, the impact of coaching goes beyond football. He is committed to developing young men, building a program that people are proud of, and approaching each day with purpose. In his program, the standard is the standard, and everything reflects that commitment

Amanda Wolf-Schramm is a softball coach, educator, and leader with over two decades of experience developing student-athletes both on and off the field. A 2001 graduate of Elgin High School, she was a standout multi-sport athlete, earning numerous honors including District MVP, CenTex Player of the Year, TGCA All-State, NFCA All-American, and 3A Player of the Year. She continued her softball career at Fresno State University under Hall of Fame coach Margie Wright, where she earned a degree in Criminology with a focus on Victim Services and a minor in Child Development. During her time there, she served on the Title IX Compliance Committee and the Athletic Director's Leadership Board, and was honored with the Fresno State Bulldog Softball Award in her senior year. Coach Wolf-Schramm began her coaching career in 2006 and quickly established herself as a transformational leader. She spent 12 years as Head Softball Coach at Elgin High School, leading her alma mater to 11 district championships in 12 seasons and multiple deep playoff runs. In 2017, she was recognized with the UIL Sponsor of Excellence Award. In 2019, she relocated to Bulverde, Texas, and joined Smithson Valley High School, where she has continued to elevate her program. Under her leadership, the Rangers have captured multiple district titles—including their first in 12 years—and she reached the milestone of 400 career wins in 2024. Her program is built on a foundation of family, character, integrity, leadership, and accountability, preparing athletes for success far beyond the game. A respected voice in the coaching community, Wolf-Schramm has served on the THSCA Softball Advisory Committee and made history as the first female At-Large representative in 2021 and, in 2025, the first woman elected to the THSCA Board of Directors. A nominee for the prestigious THSCA Jody Conradt Award, she considers her work with THSCA and its mission to “help coaches help kids” among her greatest honors. Coach Wolf-Schramm's passion for developing the whole person continues to impact athletes, coaches, and communities across Texas.

Coach McLaughlin came to Cedar Park fresh off the road to state where she ended her 2018 season as the 6A State Runner-Up. When her career in Houston was complete, she was a four-time Regional Quarter-finalist, three-time District Champion, a Regional Semi-Finalist and a State Finalist at Ridge Point High School. In her time at Ridge Point, she was District Coach of the Year three times. In her final season in Houston, Coach McLaughlin was named AVCA Regional Coach of the Year and GHVCA Coach of the Year. She has also been an All-Star coach for TGCA & GHVCA four years combined. Prior to Ridge Point, she spent five years at Dawson High School where she went to the Regional Tournament twice, was a Regional Semi-Finalist and also had a District Championship. Prior to Dawson, she spent nine years in Katy ISD: her first three years at Katy Junior High before moving to Mayde Creek for six years where she started her head coaching career. This season is Coach McLaughlin's twenty-fourth year as a Head Coach, 7th year at Cedar Park, and she has led her teams to playoffs for the last 18 consecutive years in a row. Most recently, she led her team to a 2024 State Runner Up Finish at the State Championship. In 2025, Cedar Park Volleyball ran it back to State and won it. This was historical due to this being the 1st ever Volleyball State Championship for Cedar Park HS, but also the 1st ever Volleyball State Championship for Leander ISD. Since being at Cedar Park, she has achieved 563 wins, back to back District Championships(2024 & 2025) in an extremely competitive district, three-time Regional Semi- Finalist, three-time Regional Finalist, two-time State Semi-Finalist, and two-time State Finalist Appearances. Coach McLaughlin was also named Austin Coach of the Year(2019), District Coach of the Year(2024), and most recently All South Central Texas Coach of the Year, TGCA Coach of the Year, and Blue Bell/Texas Sports Association Coach of the Year. She and her husband, Mike, have two sons, Chase and Cole. Chase is a Senior, Master's Student at Oklahoma State University, and Cole is a Sophomore at Texas Tech University.

Thomasina Gatson has over 31 years of experience in education and coaching, with a strong track record of developing successful basketball programs at the secondary and collegiate levels across Texas. Her career began in Houston ISD at Gregory Lincoln Education Center, where she coached girls basketball, volleyball, and soccer. She later joined Aldine ISD, serving as Head Girls Basketball Coach at Aldine Senior High School after leading successful freshman and junior varsity programs. From 2011–2018, Gatson coached at Lone Star College–North Harris, guiding the men's program to multiple playoff appearances and a conference championship before transitioning to Head Women's Basketball Coach, where she led three playoff seasons. In 2021, Gatson returned to UIL competition as Head Girls Basketball Coach at Aldine Eisenhower High School, leading a full program rebuild. She currently serves as Head Girls Junior Varsity Basketball Coach in Sheldon ISD.

Jason Haddock is in his first year as the Athletic Director and Head Football Coach for the Wharton Tigers. In his inaugural year, Haddock led Wharton to a 6–5 record and a playoff appearance, marking the program's first season since 2018 to finish with both a winning record and a postseason berth. Under his leadership, the Tigers achieved a 100 percent passing rate during the season and demonstrated significant growth in discipline, accountability, and team culture through intentional character and leadership programs implemented across the athletic department. Haddock spent six seasons at Clements High School following four seasons at Thurgood Marshall High School. At Clements, he served as the assistant head coach, defensive coordinator, recruiting coordinator, and inside linebackers coach. With his defensive leadership, the Rangers made back-to-back playoff appearances for the first time in 15 years. Haddock also served as the head boys track coach, and in 2024 his freshman boys track team won the first district team championship on any level for track in school history. At Thurgood Marshall High School, Haddock helped guide the Buffalos to the 2018 5A Division II state championship game. His linebackers led the team in tackles and defensive efficiency, and he coached the 5A First Team All-State kick returner Devon Achane, who accounted for 13 touchdowns on kickoff and punt returns. During his tenure at Marshall, Haddock coached five First Team All-District linebackers and helped place three into collegiate football programs. He also coached distance events in track and contributed to the Marshall boys track team winning three 5A state championships in 2016, 2018, and 2019. Prior to Marshall, Haddock served two seasons at Booker T. Washington High School as the defensive coordinator and assistant head coach. There, he developed a young defense into a consistent unit, holding four opponents under 250 total yards and leading the district in forced fumbles. His special teams units recorded 15 blocked kicks, with four returned for touchdowns. Earlier in his career, Haddock coached at Waco High School, Hillsboro High School, and Live Oak Classical School, where he helped launch the football program and guided it to a 22–6 record over three seasons. A native of Marble Falls, Texas, Haddock earned his bachelor's degree in Applied Mathematics from Baylor University, where he spent three seasons as a linebacker for the Bears. He later earned a master's degree in Kinesiology with a concentration in Sports Management from Texas Woman's University. Haddock has been published twice by the American Football Coaches Association, is an Amazon Best-Selling author, and has presented at numerous national and local football coaching conventions. He also served in the United States Air Force and currently holds a commission as an officer in the Texas State Guard. He and his wife, Jamie, are the proud parents of two daughters, Adalina and Isabella.

In this special episode of The 3 Minute Drill, we sit down for an extended conversation with a current Texas A&M student. As a member of the Undergraduate Coaching Certificate Program, they share their personal stories and experiences on this month's topic of sportsmanship

Coach McNeal has 18 years of teaching and coaching experience, having served in roles such as Special Teams Coordinator, Recruiting Coordinator, Defensive Coordinator, Head Track and Field Coach, and Softball Coach. He is a state football champion and is currently in his first year as Head Football Coach. His passion lies in developing student-athletes both on and off the field. Outside of coaching, he is a proud husband and father who enjoys grilling, watching sports, and spending quality time with his family.

In this special episode of The 3 Minute Drill, we sit down for an extended conversation with a current Texas A&M student. As a member of the Undergraduate Coaching Certificate Program, they share their personal stories and experiences on this month's topic of showing respect under pressure.

Coach Jasmine Brewer was born and raised in Missouri City, Texas where she attended Fort Bend ISD schools from Elementary through High School. Coach Brewer is a 2010 LV Hightower High School Graduate where she played 4 years under former Head Coach Deborah Mize. She was blessed to be a part of the 2010 State Finalist Team. Coach Brewer received a full basketball scholarship to Loyola University New Orleans where she played all 4 years and was inducted in the 2023 Hall of Fame Class. Coach Brewer joined the Hightower family as a JV/1st Assistant Girls Basketball Coach under Deborah Mize in 2019. In 2020, Coach Brewer became the Head Coach at Hightower and has led The Sisterhood the last 5 seasons. This past season the Lady Canes finished as the 21-6A District Champions for the 3rd year in a row, as well as the 6A Division II State Finalist, with a final record of 34-6. Coach Brewer reached her 100th win on November 2nd, 2024. Coach Brewer has been selected as the District Coach of the Year for the last 3 years, a 2025 TGCA and Greater Houston All-Star Coach, the 2023 and 2024 Campus Coach of the Year and a 2024 Dean Weese Outstanding Coach Award Finalist. She also serves as the President of the Greater Houston Area Girls Basketball Association. Coach Brewer's hobbies include spending time with family, fishing, and watching collegiate and pro sports!

In this special episode of The 3 Minute Drill, we sit down for an extended conversation with a current Texas A&M student. As a member of the Undergraduate Coaching Certificate Program, they share their personal stories and experiences on this month's topic of communication.

Ross O'Hanlon graduated from Texas A&M with a Minor in Coaching and a Bachelor's in History, as well as a Master's in Education. O'Hanlon is currently in his 6th year of coaching. His first 2 years were spent in Kenedy ISD, where he coached Junior High and High School football and track, served as the head girls track coach, and was the varsity basketball assistant. O'Hanlon spent the last 3 years at East Chambers, where he coached football and was the head girls' track coach as well. He is now in his first year at Fort Bend Hightower, where he is the wide receivers coach and hurdle coach

Josh Woodall is a 2002 graduate of Sam Houston State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and a 2010 graduate of Lamar University where he earned his Master of Education in Education Administration. Josh is a former President of the Southwest Athletic Trainers Association and currently serves on the Texas High School Athletic Director's Association Sports Medicine Advisory Committee. Throughout his career, Josh has been a dedicated advocate for student-athlete health and safety. His professional journey at Bryan ISD includes roles as Assistant Athletic Trainer, Head Athletic Trainer, and Assistant Director of Sports Medicine, culminating in his current position as Assistant Director of Athletics. He has mentored former students who have gone on to seek careers in athletic training and coaching. Josh is married to Jamie Woodall who is also a certified athletic trainer who currently serves as the Executive Director of School Safety in Waller ISD.

Shannon Rideout is an Assistant Athletic Director with Fort Bend Independent School District. Before serving in an administrative role, Shannon worked with Fort Bend, I.S.D., as the Head Coach for Boys' Track & Field at Bush High School for eight seasons. This is his twenty-third year in education. He has served in various administrative roles during those years, which include serving as the Area Athletic Coordinator for Austin I.S.D. Before working in education, Shannon worked as a television sports reporter and sports producer in the broadcasting industry.

Coach Chris Fisher has just completed his 23rd year in coaching, including 17 years of dedicated service in Plano ISD. He previously held the position of Head Football Coach and Athletic Coordinator at Palo Duro High School in Amarillo. Prior to that, he spent a year as a teacher and coach at Creekview High School in Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD.

For the past 22 years, Dena Scott has been a teacher, coach, and athletic administrator in Fort Bend ISD. She started her teaching and coaching career at First Colony Middle School in 2002 and moved to Dulles High School (her alma mater) in 2004 where she was the varsity volleyball coach. She coached there until she was named the first female assistant athletic director in 2012. In July of 2020, during the COVID pandemic, Dena was named the first female Director of Athletics for Fort Bend ISD and assumed the role of leading over 600 coaches in one of the largest school districts in Texas. Dena serves on the Publications Committee for the Texas High School Athletic Directors Association. She also serves as vice chair on the Awards Committee for the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association. Dena is a co-chair on the National Center of Spectator Sports Safety and Security Interscholastic Advisory Committee. Coach Scott enjoys serving on the Thornton-McFerrin Coaching Academy Advisory Council. In 2024 she received the NIAAA Distinguished Service Award for Texas. In 2025, Dena received the NIAAA Frank Kovaleski award for Texas and she was named the THSADA Region 5 Athletic Director of the year. She has a daughter who attends The Ohio State University. Dena is a servant leader who continually seeks ways to support her coaches and student athletes while providing a safe, secure, and thriving environment.

24 years of education-based athletic experience Current Assistant Athletic Director, Denton ISD 6 years head volleyball/assistant athletic coordinator at Morton Ranch High School 12 years head volleyball coach/head girls track coach at Kempner High School Former English teacher, Broadcast and Photo Journalism teacher, PE Department Chair Bachelor's in Communications, Masters in Sport Mangement, Doctorate in Education Member of THSADA, THSCA, TGCA, NIAA, and BCA The University of Florida's Institute of Coaching Excellence board member Southern University Sports Hall of Fame Inductee, Class of 2023

16 years Coaching Menard HS 1 year- Asst Football, Head Baseball Everman HS 7 years Varsity Asst Football, Varsity Asst Baseball Lubbock Cooper 1 year- Asst Football Asst Baseball Electra 1 year Asst Football, JH Basketball, Head Baseball Windthorst 6 years- Defensive Coordinator, Asst Baseball , JH Basketball

Coach Mann is married to his wife Brandi Mann with two sons Jace and Judson. As a graduate of Amarillo High School 1996 (1st Team All District DL 2x) and Angelo State University (3ry Letterman, 2 Year Starter), he began his coaching career at Wichita Falls High School as an assistant coach. Coach Mann later became the Defensive Coordinator at Cedar Park High School. In 2008, Coach Mann accepted the position of Head Coach and Athletic Coordinator of the newly opened Rouse Raiders High School. Coach Mann was 2012 Central Texas Coach of the Year, 2016 Hill Country News Coach of the Year, 2020 5A Coach of the Year by Dave Campbell's Magazine, and 2020 & 2021 13 5A Division Coach of the Year. He also held leadership positions in 2014 & 2024 as Central Texas Football Coaches Association President. Also served as the Head Coach for FCA Central Texas All-Star Gold team in 2017.

Stephen Mackey, better known to tens of thousands of students and educators as Coach Mackey, is a player development coach, and Wall Street Journal Best Selling author, based in Texas. In January 2017, Mackey asked the question: “What would it take to help one million athletes and coaches connect the dots between sports and life?” The answer to that question became 2Words Character Development. Built on the Six Pillars of a Championship Character—Toughness, Integrity, Belief, Excellence, Effort, and Service— 2Words has become one of the top leadership and character curriculums in the country; and in 2021, became the official character development curriculum of the Texas High School Coaches Association. As a keynote speaker, Mackey has an uncanny ability to connect with audiences of all backgrounds through humor, timeless wisdom, and an infectious energy. Drawing upon the lessons learned as a coach and entrepreneur, the people he meets, and the teams he serves, Mackey helps teams, organizations, and businesses build a Culture of Character. Mackey's first book, co-authored with Damon West, is called The Locker Room: How Great Teams Heal Hurts, Overcome Adversity, and Build Unity (Wiley Publishing), and debuted on the Wall Street Journal Best Sellers List in May of 2022. Mackey is a first-generation college graduate with a B.S. from Texas A&M University and a Master of Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary. Mackey is currently working on a Doctorate of Ministry, also at Fuller. Among his many accomplishments, Mackey is most proud of his role as a devoted husband to his wife, Teressa, and father to their four kids.

Coach Jim Woodard has been the Head Football Coach and Boys Athletic Coordinator at Cleburne High School in Cleburne, Texas the past three years. He is finishing up his 18th year in education and has had stops at Tomball Memorial, Tomball High School, Anderson-Shiro, Llano, and Whitney. He has been an Offensive Coordinator, Head Track, and Head Golf coach at some of his previous stops. He comes from a family of educators. His parents are retired educators and coaches, older brother David is the AD/HFB at West ISD, younger brother Matt is the AD/HFB at Rio Vista ISD, and niece Kearstyn is the Head Volleyball Coach at Bosqueville ISD. He has been married to Liz, a special education teacher in Cleburne for 13 years, and they share an 11-year-old son, Henry Graham Woodard III.

Shawn Bruns graduated from Schulenburg High School in 1986 and from college in 1991 from Texas A&M University in College Station. Coach Bruns started his coaching & teaching career at Flatonia HS in the Fall of 1991. This upcoming Fall 2024 he will be starting his 34th year in education at Flatonia HS. Coach Bruns has been the head baseball coach at Flatonia HS from 1992 through 2016 and then the head softball coach from 2017 to 2023. He just returned back to being the head baseball coach this past 2024 season. Bruns has led Flatonia HS to seven UIL State Tournament appearances (1992, 1993, 2008, 2014, 2015, 2016. & 2024) His teams have been blessed to play in six state championship games during those seven appearances. The Flatonia Bulldogs earned three TEXAS STATE UIL CHAMPIONSHIPS in 1993, 2015, and 2016. Shawn & his wife Shawna have been married 34 years and have four children (daughter Elizabeth & husband Matt Price of Austin) (daughter Alexandra and her fiance Matt Blair of Gainesville, Georgia) (son William and wife Kaci Bruns of Lufkin) & (daughter Katherine Bruns of College Station). They also have been graciously blessed with three grandchildren (Mabel, Oliver, & John Price).

Joseph Taylor is the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach at Friendswood High School in Friendswood, TX and a private Youth and Collegiate S&C Coach through his business Type II Performance. This will be Joseph's 7th year as a full-time high school S&C coach. Coach Taylor has a BS in Kinesiology from Sam Houston State University and a MS in Exercise and Health Sciences from University of Houston Clear-Lake. Taylor is Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and a USA Weightlifting National Coach. The Friendswood HS S&C Program has been recognized as a School of Distinction by the NSCA and a Program of Excellence by the National High School Strength and Conditioning Association.

A native of Bryan, Texas, graduated from Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Science in Ag Leadership with Sport Management emphasis in August of 2013. He was accepted into the Sport Management graduate program, but went on to accept a position at Bowen Elementary as an Instructional Assistant. Throughout college, he worked extensively in the athletic department as a student assistant and did some time as an intern with student-athlete services at A&M. He spent six seasons as an Assistant Boys Basketball Coach at Bryan High School. Reese has served as the Head Basketball Coach at College Station for 3 years, going on 4, and is coming off a playoff appearance last year.

With 22 years of experience in education, Coach Kevin Starnes currently serves as the Athletic Director at College Station ISD, a position held for the past 2 years. Prior to this, he was the Assistant Athletic Director in Grapevine-Colleyville ISD for 2 years. Starnes also spent 5 years as an associate principal at Colleyville Heritage High School following a 14-year tenure as a coach and teacher. Coach Starnes is certified in the following areas: Superintendent, Principal, English, Social Studies Composite, and Physical Education.

Deb Harris currently serves as the Head Women's Basketball Coach for McKinney High School, a position she has held for the past 19 years. With an impressive tenure of 30 years in the field of education, Harris has dedicated 23 years specifically as a Head Girls Basketball Coach. In addition to her work in McKinney, she has contributed her expertise to various school districts, including Midland, Irving, Keller, and the Ursuline Academy. Deb Harris has been honored with the esteemed District Coach of the Year title an impressive 5 times, as well as being recognized as the Head Coach of the Year in McKinney Independent School District on three separate occasions. Her dedication to coaching excellence is further complemented by her exceptional achievements outside of athletics. Harris has been designated as the McKinney Independent School District's Inspirational Teacher of the Year an outstanding 7 times, demonstrating her exceptional ability to motivate and inspire her students. Moreover, she holds the unique distinction of being the inaugural recipient of the Pratt Award, the highest athletic accolade bestowed within McKinney ISD. Fueled by her commitment to servant leadership, Deb Harris endeavors to cultivate in her students a passion for excellence that extends beyond the basketball court. She aspires to empower young individuals to strive for their dreams, all while upholding the highest standards of achievement and character, both within and beyond the realm of sports

Kate Zora is currently serving as the Head Volleyball Coach and Girls Athletic Coordinator at New Braunfels High School. Her journey into the world of athletics began in her own high school years, where she first discovered her passion for sports: volleyball, basketball, and softball. Pursuing this passion, Kate went on to compete at the collegiate level at TCU, gaining not only crucial playing experience in her freshman season but also a deep understanding of sports management and team leadership. After transferring to Texas A&M University, Kate obtained a degree in Finance. One year into the business world, she transitioned into education where she was the assistant volleyball and basketball coach at Alvin High School. While in her first few years as a teacher and coach, Kate also obtained a master's degree in Sports Management, further developing her skills in program management, athlete development, and motivational leadership. Kate's coaching philosophy centers around not only enhancing physical skills but also instilling important life skills such as teamwork, responsibility, and resilience in her athletes. This holistic approach has yielded significant successes, including numerous district and regional championships as well as two trips to the state tournament, once with A&M Consolidated High School in 2014, and a 2020 State Runner-up with Klein High School. As the Head Volleyball Coach at New Braunfels High School, Kate has continued to apply her extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for the sport, leading her teams to several successful seasons with back to back district championships. Her role as the Girls Athletic Coordinator allows her to have a broader impact, influencing the athletic and personal development of young women in various sports. Under her leadership, the athletic programs at New Braunfels High School have flourished, characterized by a positive, supportive environment where young athletes can thrive both on and off the field.

In the summer of 2017, in response to the urgent need for mental health services in her community, Heather Lambert left her 17-year career in education. Building upon her experience working as a classroom teacher, school counselor and administrator, she founded Clearhope Counseling & Wellness Center. Clearhope began with the simple mission to remove access barriers to high-quality mental health services. Today, Clearhope has multiple locations in the Greater Houston area. Heather and the Clearhope teams partner with school districts to provide on-campus mental health services, and trauma-informed trainings to support educators and students. Heather is the author of Overcoming Toxic Air A Path to Healing and Hope-Filled Exhales. Heather is also involved in political advocacy and was appointed to HB 906 Mental Health Task Force to study and evaluate mental health services to improve mental wellness in public schools across the state of Texas. Heather is driven by her personal vision that “No one should hurt alone.” Heather has been married to Pastor Brian Lambert for 30 years. Brian and Heather have 4 children.

Coach Matt Nally has been at the helm of Melissa Football since 2015. As the Head Football Coach, he has steered the Melissa Cardinal football team to an impressive overall record of 80-24, with a playoff record of 11-5. Nally's coaching prowess has been recognized with prestigious titles such as Coach of the Year for three consecutive years (2021, 2022, 2023). His dedication to the sport was further acknowledged when he was named Texas High School Coach of the Week in 2020 and Dallas Cowboy Coach of the Week in 2023. His coaching journey began at Cayuga High School, where he held various coaching roles before ascending to positions of greater responsibility. Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Nally has also made significant contributions to the coaching profession through his publications in Texas Coach Magazine, his instructional video series with Championship Productions and Coach Tube, and his role as a keynote speaker at numerous clinics across the state of Texas. Nally graduated from Frankston High School and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of North Texas in 2003 and a Master of Education in Administration from Lamar University in 2011.

Travis Reeve is in his 25th year of coaching, and 12th year as a head football coach. As an assistant, he began his coaching career in 1998 at his high school alma mater Victoria High School. He then made stops at Plano West, San Antonio MacArthur, Cuero, and San Antonio Churchill. In 2012, he was named head football coach at Cuero High School where he spent 8 seasons, including a 4A Division II State Championship in 2018. In 2020, he became the head football coach at New Caney High School, and spent three seasons there. In 2022, New Caney finished as undefeated District 13-6A Champions and Area Finalist with an 11-2 record, which was the most wins in school history. Following the 2022 season, he took the head football coaching job at El Campo High School.

Dereck Rush started his high school football coaching career as a Co-Defensive Coordinator/Varsity Defensive Ends Coach at Odessa High School in 2000. He went onto serve on coaching staffs at Midland Christian High School and John Tyler High School, where was named the Head Football Coach and Campus Athletic Coordinator in 2007, overseeing 65 coaches and 1,200 student-athletes. In 2012 he accepted the head coach and assistant athletic director position at Oak Ridge High School in Conroe, overseeing 85 coaches and 1,900 student-athletes. Rush is an active member in his church where he serves on the member board of directors, is involved in several athletic associations and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. His career includes the implementation of character development and community service programs for student-athletes, overseeing construction projects and developing numerous community partnerships. He earned a Master of Education degree from Grand Canyon University and a Bachelor of Science degree from Mississippi State University where he was a member of the Bulldogs' football team. He also holds a certified athletic administrator certification from the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association and a teen leadership course certification from the Flippen Group's Capturing Kids' Hearts program.

Coach Bear Murchison is currently in his 29th year of coaching. Coach Bear is the defensive coordinator at Oak Ridge High School in the Conroe Independent School District since 2020. Before his time at Oak Ridge, Coach Bear was the defensive line coach and strength and conditioning coordinator at The Woodlands High School (2005–2020). Before his varsity coaching, he held various roles as a campus coordinator, junior high coordinator and assistant coach in wrestling, track and field. He coached in the 2016 6A Football State Championship, was the throws coach for TWHS in 1999 when they won their first state title in Track and Field. He also started the wrestling program at TWHS as served as the head coach. He has been a wrestling assistant coach for 19 years. Coach Bear has helped to send over 35 football players to play at the college level in his 18 years as a varsity football coach. In four seasons as the defensive coordinator at Oak Ridge, his defenses have finished in the top 3 in district stats all four years. Oak Ridge has made the playoffs three out of four of those years and has two play-off wins in that time. Oak Ridge had three play-off wins in the prior 38 years. Coach Bear is a graduate of Texas A&M, ‘93, earning a BS in Kinesiology and Science Composite as his second teaching field. He earned a master's in education administration from Lamar university in 2009. In 2007, Coach Bear was recognized by the Montgomery County Hospital System with the Lifesaver Award for helping deliver CPR and use an AED to save the life of a coach who collapsed during practice. During his time in Aggieland he interned as a student athletic trainer for the Aggie Football and Aggie Track and Field teams. He earned his Athletic Trainer's License in 1995. He grew up in Fredericksburg, Texas and is a 1989 graduate of Fredericksburg High School where he earned letters in football and track and field. He has been married to his wife Stacey for 20 years and has two children.

Lindsey Killingsworth serves as the Undergraduate Program Coordinator for the Thornton-McFerrin Coaching Academy. She received a bachelor's of science in kinesiology (2007) and master's of science in sport management (2016) from Texas A&M University. Lindsey has over 15 years of experience in public education in Texas serving ISDs in the Panhandle, East Texas, and the Brazos Valley. During her coaching career she was a high school head basketball coach and assistant cross country and track coach. She has also served as a middle school athletic coordinator and head volleyball, basketball, and track coach. She specializes in creation, management, communication, and logistics of events in the educational and sports setting. As a former physical education teacher, she is passionate about life-long fitness and physical activity. Lindsey is also a certified RYT-200 yoga instructor and teaches classes in Bryan-College Station.

Dr. Craig began working in the Texas A&M Athletics Department in August of 2017 and is currently the Assistant Director of Counseling & Sport Psychology Services. Dr. Craig completed her bachelor's degree in psychology from Midwestern State University and her master's degree in counseling psychology from the University of Central Oklahoma. She earned a PhD in counseling psychology from the University of Oklahoma, where she worked with the Psychological Resources for OU Student-Athlete's (PROS) office for three years as a graduate assistant and clinical practicum student. Dr. Craig also completed her doctoral internship with the Student Counseling Service at Texas A&M's Student Counseling Service from 2016-2017, where she received specialized training and work with student-athletes under the supervision of Dr. Ryan Pittsinger and Dr. Mary Ann Covey.

Coach Miles is in his 11th year in education and 10th year in FBISD. After serving a year as the Assistant Coach, he was named Swimming & Diving Head Coach in the Spring of 2021 where he quickly reorganized the team into a growing Aquatics program in anticipation of UIL's newest sport: Water Polo. Prior to teaching, Coach Miles spent 15 years in the U.S. Navy serving aboard 3 different fast attack submarines as a Chief Petty Officer. He is currently pursuing his Master's in Sport Management from Texas A&M and is a member of the Thornton-McFerrin Coaching Academy's Veteran Coaching Program.

Episode 21: Troy Degar

Christina Amo is a 4th year Ph.D. student in the School of Public Health. Her research focuses on Sport and Exercise Psychology. She is a coach and former athlete.

Dr. Michael “Coach” Thornton is the Director of the Texas A&M Thornton-McFerrin Coaching Academy, a Clinical Assistant Professor in Kinesiology and Sports Management, and continues to serve as the President/Executive Director of Read Youth Charities and the Deerfoot Youth Camp. Additionally, he is an official for Division 1 men's basketball. Coach Thornton serves on various department, college, and Texas A&M committees as well as advising the Women's Basketball Club Team and the Student Coaches Association.

Terreneé Knight was born in Gary, Indiana and moved to the Dallas, area around the age of 9. She is a proud graduate of Garland ISD's Naaman Forest High School where she was a 4 year varsity track team member and played basketball. Coach Knight graduated from Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas in 2007 with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications Studies. She also holds a Masters of Arts in Education from the University of Phoenix and principal certification from Lamar University. Her teaching and coaching journey began in 2009 as a middle school English teacher and basketball/track coach in Garland ISD. She has taught 6th and 8th grade English at the middle school level as well as English 1, 3, Creative Writing, and Literary Genres at the high school level. During the last 10 years of her 14 year tenure in Garland ISD, she has served as the Girls Athletic Coordinator at Lakeview Centennial High School. Coach Knight believes that hard work, commitment, and paying it forward are the cornerstone of being a great coach, teacher, leader and member of the community. She is the proud life partner of Micheal Robinson II and doting mother to her child, Makari.

Dr. Jamey Harrison is a dedicated and experienced professional whose connection with the UIL runs deep. Having been actively involved in UIL events as a student at his alma mater High School, Hardin-Jefferson High School, he participated in athletics, academics, and music, Harrison's passion for these activities influenced his career path as a teacher and coach. With a strong educational background, including serving on the Legislative Council as a superintendent, Harrison has consistently worked towards enhancing the academic and extracurricular experiences of Texas students. Prior to his current role, he served as the superintendent of Bridge City ISD for 4 years and has held various positions in public education for over 14 years, including teacher, principal, and deputy superintendent. Outside of his professional life, Harrison is supported by his family, including his wife Chelle, a former teacher, and their two sons, Jackson and Jett.

Coach Felicia Brock has been coaching at the high school level since 2013 as the Strength & Conditioning Coordinator at College Station High School. Coach Brock works with numerous teams including volleyball, girls cross country, boys cross country, boys basketball, girls basketball, baseball, softball, girls track & field, boys track & field, boys golf, girls golf, boys wrestling, girls wrestling and cheer. In addition to these HS teams, she assists with the athletic development at three middle schools in the district. Last, in addition to her role as S&C coach, Coach Brock is also the CSHS Assistant Athletic Coordinator and PE Department Head. Coach Brock is SCCC certified with the CSCCa and CSCS certified with the NSCA. She is also a proud member of the NHSSCA-TX. Coach Brock is happily married to Jobi Brock and they have two children, Evelynn (7) and Harrison (5). Coach Brock attended Texas State University where she received her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Sport Science. Later she earned her Master of Science degree in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Sport Physiology from Texas A&M University. Coach Brock first started her strength & conditioning career interning at Texas A&M with her mentor, Raychelle Ellsworth in 2008. Upon completion, Coach Brock worked as the strength & conditioning coach at the collegiate level at the University of Houston, University of Florida, Samford University and Texas State University before shifting her role to the high school level.

Coach Josh McDonald '01 '08 has been an educator and coach in the state of Texas for 20 years and holds two degrees from Texas A&M University. Coach McDonald currently serves as the head boys and girls powerlifting coach and is an assistant football coach (DL) at Greenwood High School in Midland, Texas.

Tonya McKelvey-White is the head track and field coach at James E Taylor High School at Katy ISD where she specializes in coaching the hurdles, sprints, long jump, triple jump, and relays. As a student-athlete for Clemson University, she garnered All-America honors in the long jump three times (NCAA Indoor in 1993 and 1994 and NCAA Outdoor in 1993). She was the Atlantic Coast Conference champion in that same event in 1992 and 1994. In 1993, she was a member of the ACC champion 4x100-meter relay team. McKelvey-White was also a qualifier for the USATF Nationals in 1993 and 1994. Upon completing her career at Clemson, she joined the South Carolina staff as an assistant coach. She then came became the first African-American female assistant in West Virginia University history when she joined the women's track and field staff in 1997 where she worked with the jumpers and hurdlers. She later coached at North Carolina A&T University.

Robert D Owens has been the Boys Coordinator, Head Football Coach, and Head Track Coach at Wellborn Middle School since 2018. He is also an FCA sponsor at Wellborn. Before coaching at Wellborn, Owens was an educator and coach at Southwest High School in Fort Worth, TX. He Studied Psychology and Kinesiology at Texas A&M University and was the class of 1994. He is a husband and father to his wife Stephanie Owens, and son, Preston Owens. 3 Minute Drill Podcast: Robert Owens

Kelli Campbell attended Texas A&M University from 1995-2000 and was a 4-year letterman on the track and field team. She also actively volunteered in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Aggie Athletes Involved. As a junior, Kelli entered the Professional Program in Accounting (PPA), obtained a Bachelors of Business Administration in Accounting, and Master of Science in Management Information Systems. After graduating in 2000, she worked for PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) then transitioned to Fortune 500 company, Temple-Inland, Inc. based out of Austin, Texas. While at Temple-Inland, she was an internal auditor and eventually became the Enterprise Change Management (ECM) Lead within the IT division.

Dr. Lisa Langston was a four-year letter winner in women's basketball under the coaching of Cherri Rapp and Lynn Hickey. She also earned two letters in track and field under Charlie Thomas and Ted Nelson. Dr. Langston earned first-team All-Southwest Conference honors in 1985. She received her Bachelors of Science with a minor in Biology from Texas A&M University, her Master's from Tarleton State, and her Doctorate from Texas Woman's University. She is currently working as the Athletic Director in the Fort Worth ISD and is the past president of the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA). In 2019 Dr. Langston received the NIAAA State Award of Merit for her continuous dedication to High School and Middle School Athletics.

Shannon Rideout currently serves as an Assistant Athletic Director with Fort Bend Independent School District. Prior to working in administration, Shannon worked with Fort Bend I.S.D. for ten years. During that time, he served as the Head Coach for Boys Track & Field at Bush High School for eight seasons. This is his twentieth year in education. He has served in various administrative roles during those years, which includes serving as the Area Athletic Coordinator for Austin I.S.D. Before working in education, Shannon worked in the broadcasting industry as a television sports reporter and sports producer.

Brian Polk currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer for the Texas High School Coaches Association (THSCA). Prior to his time with the THSCA, Polk spent 5 years as Associate Athletic Director of the University Interscholastic League, and 17 years as a teacher, coach, and administrator in districts across the state of Texas.

Dr. Silvia Salinas currently serves as Executive Director of Athletics for Dallas ISD which is the second-largest school district in Texas and the 16th largest in the nation. Before becoming the first female executive director of athletics for Dallas ISD, Dr. Salinas began her career as a math teacher and coach at Lockhart High School. In 1996, she joined Dallas ISD at Skyline High School but left for a brief period to coach at Northwestern State University. Dr. Salinas returned to Dallas in 2000 to teach at Bryan Adams High School and Richland College but then transitioned to W.T. White High School prior to becoming an assistant director of athletics for the district in 2004 and then executive director in 2019. This is her 18th year in athletic administration and her 29th year in education. Salinas holds a bachelor's degree in exercise and sports science from Southwest Texas State University, where she competed in cross country and track & field. She earned her master's degree in sports administration from Northwestern State University, and a doctorate in higher education and athletics administration from the University of North Texas.

Joey Florence is a two-time state championship-winning football coach and was inducted into the Texas High School Football Hall of Fame in 2020. As a head coach, Mr. Florence was named District Coach of the Year ten times, State Coach of the Year twice and coached the national Under Armor All-America Game in 2012. He received the UIL Excellence Award in 2006 and served on the Texas High School Coaches Board of Directors from 2006 to 2009. Florence graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 1989. He served as an assistant coach at Sulphur Springs High School and Marcus High School before becoming one of the youngest head coaches in the state when he was named head coach at Cooper High School in 1994 at age 28. He has served Denton ISD as the director of athletics since 2014.

Libby Pacheco currently serves as the first Chief Operating Officer of the Texas High School Coaches Association and Education Foundation. Libby was a coach and educator across the state of Texas for 22 years before her transition over to THSCA in November '21. Pacheco has been honored as District Coach of the Year 5 times and has garnered 10 state playoff appearances. Pacheco has a B.S. from Texas State University in Exercise Sport Science, a M.Ed. from North Texas in Educational Leadership, and was a basketball student-athlete at St.Edwards University in Austin.