High School Sports Saturday with Tate Mathews

This episode of High School Sports Saturday broadcast live from the new Williamson County Schools (WCS) Innovation Center in Franklin, Tennessee, opens with WCS District Director of Athletics Coach Patrick Whitlock, who introduces the expanded Fall Media Day lineup—now featuring girls' volleyball and soccer alongside football—while highlighting the center's career-focused vocational programs (including flight simulators, cybersecurity, culinary arts, and hospitality management), the "Outside the Lines" (OTL) student media initiative, student transfer policies, and the importance of hiring quality coaches to build strong school athletic culture. First-year Centennial High School head coach Coach Chad Broadrick then details assembling his coaching staff, transitioning from defensive coordinator, and reshaping the Cougars' offense following the loss of key 2025 playmakers Mitchell Granger and Malachi Steel by leaning on five returning senior offensive linemen ahead of preseason scrimmages against Lebanon, Independence, and Father Ryan. Next, Nolensville High School head coach Coach Scott Stiddem provides an outlook on his second season leading the Knights, detailing the return of 14 starters (seven on offense and seven on defense), extensive stadium upgrades featuring new turf with heat-reducing green rubber pellets, LED lights, and a video board, his strong support for multi-sport athletes, and a challenging early schedule starting with a Thursday night season opener against Antioch on MyTV30. Nolensville senior defensive lineman Jake Centell follows, explaining how his background as a three-time state-placing wrestler enhances his leverage, hand-fighting, and physical conditioning on the field, while discussing his summer weight training regimen, interest in aviation, and college recruiting process. Senior quarterback Ryan Newell then discusses taking over as Nolensville's starting signal-caller alongside a close-knit group of classmates who have played together since middle school, explaining how his commitment to play Division I baseball at Bowling Green State University and his childhood experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu assist his vision and quick decision-making under pressure as the team pursues a state championship. Finally, The Tennessean high school sports columnist Tom Kreager wraps up the broadcast by reviewing the start of full-pad practices across Middle Tennessee, analyzing the commitment of five-star offensive lineman David Sanders Jr. to the University of Tennessee, spotlighting Christ Presbyterian Academy's (CPA) passing attack led by quarterback Bo Bryan and wide receivers Maximus Curry and Maddox Porter, and previewing The Tennessean's annual "Dandy Dozen" series profiling the region's top high school football talent.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate speaks with Nolensville Knights head coach Scott Stidham alongside student-athletes Jake Jake Sentell and Ryan Newell to preview the program's upcoming season. Coach Stidham highlights the team's returning starters on both offense and defense, as well as offseason facility upgrades including new turf, a updated track, a video board, and LED lights. The players reflect on how competing in secondary sports—such as wrestling for Jake Sentell  and baseball and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for Newell—translates to on-field football performance through physical toughness, leverage, quick decision-making, and team leadership. The group concludes by discussing their preseason preparations, upcoming scrimmages, early schedule challenges, and their collective goal of contending for a state championship.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Coach Chad Broadrick of the Centennial Cougars for a live remote interview at the WCS Fall Media Day. Broadrick reflects on his transition into the head coaching role since his mid-January hire, discussing the challenges of assembling his coaching staff and praising the team's booster club for their exceptional fundraising efforts. Looking ahead to the season, he addresses the team's need to adapt after losing major offensive firepower from the 2025 roster, noting that they will rely heavily on a talented sophomore class and a starting lineup of five senior offensive linemen rather than attempting high-scoring shootouts. Finally, Broadrick outlines the team's preparation strategy, detailing upcoming scrimmages against Lebanon, Independence, and Father Ryan, while previewing a challenging Week 1 matchup against a revamped Stewarts Creek team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by WCS Athletics Director Patrick Whitlock to Kick Off the Expanded Fall Media Day at the Brand-New Innovation Center The conversation highlights how this year's event has expanded beyond the standard nine football programs to also spotlight the district's highly competitive girls' volleyball and soccer teams, offering more student-athletes valuable public speaking and media experience. Additionally, the discussion explores the impressive real-world vocational opportunities the new facility offers students—ranging from aviation simulators and culinary arts to hands-on sports broadcasting with the OTL group—while touching on the critical importance of building a positive community culture to retain top-tier coaching talent in today’s competitive high school sports landscape.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us for a jam-packed weekend edition of High School Sports Saturday! With the 2026 fall sports season right around the corner, we are breaking down everything you need to know about Middle Tennessee athletics. In This Episode: Coach James Counce (Rockvale Rockets Football): Entering his second year at the helm, Coach Counce discusses closing the competitive gap in a brutal Region 3-6A. We dive into the importance of building team toughness, what to expect from his southpaw quarterback, and how the Rockets are preparing for their opening scrimmages against Beech and Franklin. Garth Bouldin (High School Power Hour): Garth drops by to announce the highly anticipated return of the High School Power Hour! The Friday night staple is back for its second season starting August 14th. We talk about the challenges of mid-state scheduling, battling weather delays, and expanding the show's footprint to highlight even more local sports programs. Tom Kreeger (The Dandy Dozen): It is the 20th anniversary of the Dandy Dozen! Tom breaks down the 2026 list featuring standout Middle Tennessee recruits, including top-tier SEC and Big Ten commits. We also take a fun, honest look back at the biggest "misses" in the Dandy Dozen's two-decade history.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate Matthews welcomes Tom Kreager (TK) of The Tennessean to the show to discuss the highly anticipated release of the 2026 Dandy Dozen. Marking the 20th anniversary of the prestigious list, which first began in 2007, TK breaks down the elite twelve mid-state high school athletes who made the cut. The duo previews the alphabetical roster, featuring heavy hitters like Antioch's 4-star Colorado quarterback commit Andre Adams, Upperman's Ole Miss commit Colton Johnson, and an explosive trio of receivers from Brentwood Academy. TK also provides behind-the-scenes details of the players' recent indoor photoshoot held at Franklin Road Academy (FRA). Later in the segment, Tate and TK review a special anniversary piece: "The 10 Biggest Misses of the Dandy Dozen.". They reflect on historical evaluation misses, discussing players who were completely left off the list—like Goodpasture's Keenan Reynolds, who later finished fifth in the Heisman voting—and players who were ranked far too low, such as Donta Hightower, Graham Barton, Marcel Reed, and Alontae TaylorSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Garth Bolden to officially preview the highly anticipated second season of the High School Power Hour! Broadcasting on 104.5 The Zone, the premier mid-state high school sports show is back and bigger than ever. Garth breaks down the show's expanded coverage footprint for the upcoming season, previewing key football storylines, coaching changes, and detailing the program's transition into year-round high school sports broadcasting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Rockvale Rockets Head Football Coach, James Counce, as he enters his second year at the helm. Coach Counce breaks down his strategy for closing the gap in one of the state's most brutal regions. He shares insights from their early spring practices, the ongoing mission to boost the team's overall "football IQ," and their recent 7-on-7 work against BGA and Nashville Christian. With a veteran roster of 33 seniors and a dynamic southpaw quarterback, the Rockets are gearing up to be a highly physical force this fall. Coach Counce also reflects on the coaching philosophy passed down from his Hall of Fame father, James Counce Sr., and his time playing under Francis "Boots" Donnelly at MTSUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to another episode of High School Sports Saturday with Tate Mathews! As the fall sports season quickly approaches, we have an absolutely packed lineup of interviews for you today. Here is what we have on tap for this week's show: Coach Bruce Hatfield drops by to share the latest updates from the Tennessee Athletic Coaches Association. Coach Chris Keylon, the new head football coach at East Robertson, sits down with us to discuss his vision for his team's upcoming season. Patrick Whitlock, Williamson County's District Athletic Director, outlines an exciting professional development day tailored for local coaches. Tom Kreager, our go-to sports journalist, wraps things up with a fresh news update to give you a complete, comprehensive look at what is happening across the region's athletic landscape. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate Is Joined By Tom Kreager of the Tennessean to dive into the latest Middle Tennessee high school football action, kicking things off with a recap of the Riverdale 7-on-7 tournament and a nod to the school's fresh Warner Athletic turf field. The guys highlight the Tennessee Titans' upcoming "car wash" media day at Nissan Stadium, a massive event designed to hype up the season by hosting over 60 local schools for interviews and photos. Kreager also breaks down Knoxville Catholic's self-imposed, one-year restrictive probation stemming from a recruiting violation, while acknowledging the unique challenges of playing in their highly competitive division. To wrap things up, they tease the highly anticipated 20th-anniversary drop of the "Dandy Dozen" list coming next week, setting the stage for an exciting high school football season ahead.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate Is Joined By District Athletic Director Patrick Whitlock to discuss Williamson County's strategic focus as high school athletics return from the dead period. Their conversation highlights an upcoming professional development day designed to equip coaches with crucial off-the-field skills, featuring presentations on the TSSAA recruiting rule by Joe Blair and mental health and failure management by Ben Zobrist's nonprofit, Champion Forward. Whitlock also previews the highly anticipated WCS Media Day scheduled for July 25th at the Innovation Center, which will provide all nine high school football programs, alongside volleyball and girls' soccer teams, a professional platform to engage with local media ahead of the rapidly approaching fall season.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate Is Joined By  Chris Keylon, the newly appointed head football coach for the East Robertson Indians. Throughout the segment, Coach Keylon details his journey back to his Middle Tennessee roots following coaching stints at Pine Richland in Pennsylvania and Harrison High School in Arkansas. He outlines his core vision for the team's identity, emphasizing a commitment to fielding the toughest, most physical roster—a coaching philosophy heavily inspired by his college roommate, Coach Walt Wells. While maintaining this aggressive, downhill approach, Keylon also plans to introduce a more active passing game to capitalize on the talents of Chason, the team's returning Mr. Football finalist quarterback. As they prepare for a challenging season, the coach expresses enthusiasm for their upcoming scrimmages against Gordonsville, White House, and Greenbrier, which will serve as an initial test of their newly installed physical style.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  Tate Is Joined By Bruce Hatfield to discuss the Tennessee Athletic Coaches Association (TACA) and its extensive benefits for educators across all sports. Following personal shoutouts to his family and fellow coach Dan "Pops" Winfrey, Hatfield highlights how TACA supports its members through initiatives like a $2 million classroom and field insurance policy, free admission to T W S S A A state championship games, student-athlete scholarships, and assistant coach awards. Hatfield also details the organization's history since its founding in 1983 by Coach Cartwright, its affordable membership fees of $52 for individuals or $45 for groups of 15 or more, and the highly anticipated East-West All-Star Classic football game held in Clarksville. The segment concludes with excitement over the All-Star event's return to the DoubleTree Hotel and a heartfelt "Commando pride" shoutout to their mutual friends, Janice "Yaya" and George Welch.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to the 4th of July episode of High School Sports Saturday With Tate Mathews! This show  kicks off with an energetic Fourth of July greeting, celebrating America's 250th birthday. Tate quickly sets the agenda for the morning's broadcast, announcing upcoming interviews with newly appointed Rutherford County Athletics Director Coach Greg Wyant, Nolensville volleyball coach Brett Young, and regular guest Tom Kreager from The Tennessean. Tate  lists numerous local athletes and coaches who recently earned mid-state and all-state honors in boys' and girls' lacrosse, baseball, and softball. Wrapping up the block, he issues a vital reminder for student-athletes to hydrate as the state's mandatory two-week athletic "dead period" comes to a close. Next, Tate speaks with Greg Wyant, the newly appointed Athletic Director for Rutherford County Schools. Wyant reflects on his transition to this county-wide administrative role after a 34-year career coaching and directing athletics at local high schools like Riverdale and Siegel. A major focal point of their conversation is the critical importance of middle school athletic programs. Wyant emphasizes that developing foundational skills at the middle school level—and retaining those athletes—is essential for building highly competitive high school feeder programs across the county's rapidly growing athletic landscape. The discussion also covers the strategic expansion of the county's athletic administration, specifically highlighting the hiring of Jenna Jones as the new athletics compliance director. Wyant explains that he and Jones will divide administrative and compliance responsibilities to better support all of the county's schools, ensuring they adhere strictly to TSSAA regulations while advocating for smaller schools. As the interview wraps up, Wyant confirms he will also maintain his seat on the TSSAA Legislative Council, which provides a strategic advantage for Rutherford County by keeping them on the front lines of state-wide athletic policies and best practices. Tate is also  joined by Brett Young, the head volleyball coach for the Nolensville Lady Knights, on this segment the two discussed how local teams navigate the summer dead period. Coach Young emphasized the importance of resting his heavily scheduled club players, noting that after the break, the team will resume practice in mid-July. He detailed that preseason camps are slated for early August, with the Lady Knights’ first official match scheduled for August 17th. The conversation then shifted to the high level of competition in Williamson County and Nolensville's promising roster. Coach Young shared his excitement about returning eight of his top nine rotation players from last year, praising the skills of senior ETSU commit Taylor Collins and the team's two returning setters, Avery Ethridge and Sadie Demming. They also touched on the formidable local volleyball landscape, recognizing the historic strength of Brentwood and Ravenwood while agreeing that Franklin looks to be the district favorite this year. Tate  is  finally  joined by Tom Kreager of The Tennessean for a festive 4th of July edition of High School Sports Saturday. After kicking things off with some holiday grilling banter about Kreager's brisket and messy mac-and-cheese, the energetic duo quickly pivoted to the highly anticipated return of high school football. They highlighted the upcoming 7-on-7 tournament week starting on Monday, specifically pointing out major local events and competitions scheduled at Lebanon and Riverdale high schools. The conversation then shifted to a recently published article ranking Tennessee's top ten high school athletes of all time. The two sports minds eagerly debated the ever-changing list and broke down a few notable inclusions: #1 Wilma Rudolph: They offered immense respect for the Clarksville track legend, acknowledging her incredible Olympic achievements and unparalleled legacy despite her untimely passing. #10 Steve Spurrier: They shared a fun historical nugget about the Science Hill standout, noting he chose to play for Florida instead of Tennessee because UT's single-wing offense didn't suit his forward-passing style. Mookie Betts: The segment wrapped with unanimous agreement that the Nashville-area native is not only on a first-ballot MLB Hall of Fame trajectory, but is also undeniably the best bowler in baseball.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is  joined by Tom Kreager of The Tennessean for a festive 4th of July edition of High School Sports Saturday. After kicking things off with some holiday grilling banter about Kreager's brisket and messy mac-and-cheese, the energetic duo quickly pivoted to the highly anticipated return of high school football. They highlighted the upcoming 7-on-7 tournament week starting on Monday, specifically pointing out major local events and competitions scheduled at Lebanon and Riverdale high schools. The conversation then shifted to a recently published article ranking Tennessee's top ten high school athletes of all time. The two sports minds eagerly debated the ever-changing list and broke down a few notable inclusions: #1 Wilma Rudolph: They offered immense respect for the Clarksville track legend, acknowledging her incredible Olympic achievements and unparalleled legacy despite her untimely passing. #10 Steve Spurrier: They shared a fun historical nugget about the Science Hill standout, noting he chose to play for Florida instead of Tennessee because UT's single-wing offense didn't suit his forward-passing style. Mookie Betts: The segment wrapped with unanimous agreement that the Nashville-area native is not only on a first-ballot MLB Hall of Fame trajectory, but is also undeniably the best bowler in baseball. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate was joined by Brett Young, the head volleyball coach for the Nolensville Lady Knights, on this segment of High School Sports Saturday. Following brief Fourth of July pleasantries, the two discussed how local teams navigate the summer dead period. Coach Young emphasized the importance of resting his heavily scheduled club players, noting that after the break, the team will resume practice in mid-July. He detailed that preseason camps are slated for early August, with the Lady Knights’ first official match scheduled for August 17th. The conversation then shifted to the high level of competition in Williamson County and Nolensville's promising roster. Coach Young shared his excitement about returning eight of his top nine rotation players from last year, praising the skills of senior ETSU commit Taylor Collins and the team's two returning setters, Avery Ethridge and Sadie Demming. They also touched on the formidable local volleyball landscape, recognizing the historic strength of Brentwood and Ravenwood while agreeing that Franklin looks to be the district favorite this year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate talks to Greg Wyant, the newly appointed Athletic Director for Rutherford County Schools. Wyant reflects on his transition to this county-wide administrative role after a 34-year career coaching and directing athletics at local high schools like Riverdale and Siegel. A major focal point of their conversation is the critical importance of middle school athletic programs. Wyant emphasizes that developing foundational skills at the middle school level—and retaining those athletes—is essential for building highly competitive high school feeder programs across the county's rapidly growing athletic landscape. The discussion also covers the strategic expansion of the county's athletic administration, specifically highlighting the hiring of Jenna Jones as the new athletics compliance director. Wyant explains that he and Jones will divide administrative and compliance responsibilities to better support all of the county's schools, ensuring they adhere strictly to TSSAA regulations while advocating for smaller schools. As the interview wraps up, Wyant confirms he will also maintain his seat on the TSSAA Legislative Council, which provides a strategic advantage for Rutherford County by keeping them on the front lines of state-wide athletic policies and best practices. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to another episode of High School Sports Saturday! This  show covers crucial off-season updates and an inspiring comeback story. Coach Zach White of Green Hill Football shares "dead period" advice, emphasizing heat acclimation, hydration, and maintaining sprint speed to prevent soft-tissue injuries. Next, Franklin Baseball's Coach Wally Widby recounts his miraculous survival and recovery after a life-threatening eye injury from a line drive, highlighting his profound faith and his team's resilience. Finally, The Tennessean's Tom Kreager drops in to discuss recent state press awards for sports coverage. The primary takeaway for listeners is the importance of prioritizing safe summer training and recognizing the incredible power of perseverance during unimaginable adversity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by TK to recap a busy couple of weeks in local high school sports. The duo celebrates The Tennessean taking first place for best sports writing at the State Press Awards before breaking down the recent All-Midstate team selections for flag football, lacrosse, and baseball. Guest TK shares behind-the-scenes perspectives on crafting these honors and previews an upcoming "Best Sports Moments" piece dropping July 5th, featuring historic local championships. The most important takeaway for listeners is to stay locked in: as the summer dead period concludes, the staff is already gearing up for the start of another highly anticipated high school football season.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Franklin Admiral baseball head coach Wally Whidby to discuss a life-altering incident from March 2026. Coach Whidby shares the harrowing details of being struck by a foul ball, resulting in the tragic loss of his left eye. They cover his ongoing medical journey, including an upcoming prosthetic surgery, and his recent recognition as the 2026 Courage Award recipient. Sharing his deeply personal perspective, Coach Whidby emphasizes how his strong faith, enduring humor, and the Franklin community's incredible support have sustained his family. The most important takeaway for listeners is the remarkable power of resilience; despite facing sudden and devastating adversity, Coach Whidby remains an inspiring beacon of positivity who is fully prepared to return to the dugout.   Link to Wally Whidby: The 2026 Courage Award Recipient https://youtu.be/rY1mYFKxjiw?si=Jbkn4eNTK9aXl6emSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Coach Zac White, offensive and strength coordinator for Green Hill Hawk football, to discuss athlete responsibilities during the two-week dead period. Coach White outlines essential dos and don'ts for preserving off-season progress, emphasizing the need for players to stay acclimated to the summer heat and maintain strict hydration. He advises against junk food and sugary sodas like RC Cola, warning that poor diets and inactivity quickly lead to lingering hamstring injuries upon return. To prevent this, athletes should complete full-speed sprints and utilize bodyweight workouts if gym access is unavailable. Ultimately, White’s primary takeaway is that injury prevention is paramount, reminding listeners that a player's greatest ability is their availability on the field.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to another episode of High School Sports Saturday with Tate Mathews. In this exciting edition, the show broadcasts live from the BCAT Ladies Hoops Fest at Lebanon High School, featuring a special guest segment with Coach Mark Vaughn, the head women's basketball coach at Cumberland University. Coach Vaughn joins the program to dive into the thriving culture of Tennessee sports, sharing his personal coaching journey and celebrating the massive evolution of the women's game. The conversation highlights two major developments currently shaping local sports. First, they discuss the implementation of the high school shot clock in girls' basketball, with Coach Vaughn breaking down how the rule elevates late-game strategy, improves player basketball IQ, and seamlessly prepares athletes for the collegiate level. Second, they shine a spotlight on exceptional local talent and thriving programs within Wilson County and the Mid-State area, identifying elite players who are turning the heads of college scouts and showcasing why the region has become a premier destination for basketball.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this energetic sports segment broadcast live from the B-Cat Lady Hoops Fest at Lebanon High School, the host sits down with Mark Vaughn, the Head Women's Basketball Coach for Cumberland University. As Coach Vaughn prepares to enter his third year leading the Phoenix, he shares a mix of personal milestones and deep insights into his program's culture and future.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This lively broadcast from the B-Cat Hoopfest features a dynamic and candid conversation with Head Women's Basketball Coach Cory Barrett of Lebanon High School and Coach Wes Shappley of Bartlett High School. The coaches dive deep into the evolution of high school women's basketball, and the business of running a program.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate talks with Corey Barrett, head coach of the Lebanon High School Devilettes basketball team. Broadcasting from a massive girls' basketball tournament hosted at the school, Coach Barrett and the host discuss the logistics of running an event with over 100 teams, the highly anticipated introduction of the shot clock to Tennessee high school basketball, and the elite talent on display on the court. Barrett also highlights the impressive strength of Wilson County's local basketball programs and the significant economic boost the tournament brings to the surrounding community.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined with BCAT Director Bruce Slatten, who discusses the remarkable evolution and scale of girls' high school basketball in Tennessee. Coach Slaton highlights the massive growth in the athleticism, strength, and overall quality of the women's game, crediting advanced weight training and excellent coaching throughout the state for closing regional competitive gaps. The tournament serves as a massive collegiate recruiting hub, drawing nearly 80 college scouts over the weekend and culminating in a staggering 510 total games played across the boys' and girls' events to give young athletes maximum exposure right before the NCAA dead period.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on High School Sports Saturday, Tate Mathews takes the show on the road, broadcasting live from the TOA Sports Performance Center in Franklin for the massive BCAT Hoops Fest! With over 150 teams packed into the facility, Tate sits down with some of the best basketball minds in the region to discuss summer development, the evolving landscape of college recruiting, and the highly anticipated arrival of the shot clock in Tennessee high school hoops. First, Coach Bruce Slatten the Executive Director, BCAT breaks down the explosive growth of the Hoops Fest, the importance of getting players exposure across all collegiate levels, and the association's successful push to finally implement the shot clock statewide. Then, Coach Jason Welch the Head Coach of the Tullahoma Wildcats, provides a look into the Tullahoma program, the grind of summer ball, and how playing multiple games in a single day builds necessary team chemistry and competitive endurance for the winter. Coach Andy Blackston of the Brentwood Academy Eagles) shares his philosophy on building a Next, winning culture, defending the standard at a powerhouse program, and his thoughts on how the new 35-second shot clock will change late-game strategies. The show wraps with Coach Eric Evans II of the Cumberland University Phoenix providing a deep dive into the college side of the game. Coach Evans discusses the relentless recruiting trail, the reality of navigating the transfer portal, and building a gritty, defensive-minded NAIA program at Cumberland.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate welcomes in Coach Eric Evans II, who is entering his fourth year at the helm of the Cumberland University Men's Basketball program. Coach Evans opens up about the massive shift he has led at Cumberland—moving away from a heavy reliance on two-year transfers and focus instead on building a long-term culture from the freshman class on up. He breaks down what he and his staff look for when scouting high school talent, emphasizing that a player's character, behavior as a teammate, and coachability matter just as much as their point production. Tate and Coach Evans also dive into the ultra-competitive landscape of their NAIA conference, which Evans describes as a "low-major Division I league" featuring perennial powerhouses like Free Hardeman and Georgetown.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate welcomes in Coach Andy Blackston, head coach of the Brentwood Academy Eagles, fresh off back-to-back deep postseason runs. Coach Blackston gives us an inside look at what it takes to build and maintain a championship-caliber team. From developing players who truly want to win to the meticulous process of instilling a competitive mindset, this conversation offers invaluable insights for players and coaches alike. They also discuss the unique challenges of playing in DII-AA, the recent implementation of the TSSAA shot clock, and the reality of the college basketball recruiting process.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate sits down with Tullahoma Wildcats Head Basketball Coach Jason Welch to break down the grind of the high school summer basketball circuit. With over 80 college coaches walking the gym, they discuss the massive exposure the BCAT Hoopsfest provides and what it takes for players to push through the final days of the summer evaluation period. Coach Welch, bringing 33 years of coaching experience to the mic, also shares his candid thoughts on the TSSAA Board of Control's recent approval of the shot clock. Tate and Jason dive into how the shot clock will eliminate late-game "hack-fests," speed up the pace of play, and the logistical and financial hurdles schools will face in finding qualified operators. Plus, a look back at Tullahoma's incredible recent success, including their 28-5 and 32-5 seasons.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate sits down with Coach Bruce Slatten, Executive Director of the Basketball Coaches Association of Tennessee (BCAT), to discuss the massive evolution of the Hoopsfest event—growing from 54 teams in 2019 to an incredible 158 teams today. They dive into the importance of the NCAA live period, what it means for high school athletes to play in front of over 70 college programs, and the hard realities of college recruiting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to another episode of High School Sports Saturday  Host Tate Mathews opens the show by honoring the newly announced All-Midstate boys' soccer and track and field teams, highlighting exceptional performances from state champions like Station Camp's soccer squad and multi-event standout track stars from Pearl-Cohn and Brentwood. In addition to celebrating student-athletes, the segment breaks down major updates from the local baseball coaching carousel, announcing that Mike McClorie is taking over at Oakland and Wayne Kendrick is heading to Riverdale, while openings at Independence and Centennial remain vacant. The episode features an impressive lineup of guest interviews, starting with newly appointed Smyrna head football coach Mark Williams, who discusses succeeding his brother Matt and keeping program continuity by retaining Ben Coon as offensive coordinator. Williamson County Schools District Athletic Director Patrick Whitlock then drops by to preview the highly anticipated 12th annual WILLCOs at The Factory in Franklin, while also touching on major upcoming TSSAA proposals regarding state basketball tournament seeding and a potential shot clock. Finally, Tom Kreager of The Tennessean wraps up the guest segments by previewing the Middle Tennessee Sports Awards at the Music City Center and breaking news on Eagleville High School breaking ground on its new multi-sport synthetic turf facilities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Tom Kreager of the Tennessean for their weekly Saturday morning high school sports roundup. Brought to you by Warner Athletic—who recently broke ground on Eagleville's new turf field for 2026—the duo dives straight into the latest news and updates across the local sports scene.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by District Athletic Director Coach Patrick Whitlock to discuss the upcoming 12th annual Wilcos, a major awards event for high school athletes in the district.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Mark Williams, the newly appointed head football coach of the Smyrna Bulldogs. In this interview, Coach Williams discusses taking over the program from his brother and outlines his vision for the team's future.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to another episode of High School Sports Saturday With Tate Mathews! In this edition,  Tate wraps up the two-week Spring Fling event by celebrating the newly crowned state champions from the mid-state region. The show features a stellar lineup of guest interviews, including state championship soccer coach Jeremy Cook of the Station Camp Bison, state championship lacrosse coach Tom Petitt of the Nolensville Knights, and a regular weekly visit with Tom Kreager of The Tennessean. Throughout the episode, Tate also highlights essential high school football coaching changes and updates listeners on recent retirement news within the local sports community. The program includes detailed segments reviewing team accomplishments across baseball, softball, girls' flag football, boys' and girls' lacrosse, soccer, track and field, and tennis. Notably, Tate emphasizes the exceptional dominance of mid-state teams, celebrating achievements like Christ Presbyterian Academy's 24-game winning streak in baseball, and multiple state titles brought home by schools like Eagleville, Community, and Stewarts Creek. Guest coach Jeremy Cook shares an inspiring reflection on his team's back-to-back state soccer championships, overcoming roster adversity and injuries, and touches upon his recent personal milestone of donating a kidney to fellow coach Ronnie MacMahon. Later, coach Tom Petitt details the Nolensville Knights' impressive lacrosse season, lauded for their star-studded roster and defensive prowess, which led them to a 17-8 victory over Brentwood in the state final. Sponsored by local staples such as Jimmy Kelly’s Steakhouse, the Tennessee Athletic Coaches Association (TACA), and Freedom Boat Club of Tennessee, the broadcast seamlessly weaves sports reporting with community engagement. Listeners are treated to updates on local business offerings, from premium dining experiences to athletic training opportunities like the D1 Football Academy. The episode concludes with Tom Kreager providing additional insights into the challenges and triumphs of the Spring Fling week, including how weather disruptions forced logistical adaptations, before looking ahead to the upcoming 2026 football season and highlighting key coaching retirements.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Tom Kreager from The Tennessean to reflect on the recent Spring Fling high school sports tournament and discuss major football and baseball coaching shakeups across Middle Tennessee. Kreager shares his key takeaway from the rain-delayed tournament, emphasizing the critical need for more turf softball fields in Rutherford County to help manage tight game schedules during severe weather. The conversation shifts to a series of significant football coaching changes, including Mark Williams taking over for Matt Williams at Smyrna, Josh Kineffl stepping in at Wilson Central, and the search for a new head coach at Giles County following David O'Connor's departure to Alabama. Finally, they honor the storied careers of legendary baseball coaches Mack Hawks of Oakland and Barry Messer of Riverdale following their recent retirement announcements.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Nolensville Knights lacrosse head coach Tom Pettit to celebrate the team's back-to-back state championship victories. During the conversation, Coach Pettit discusses the significant impact of the team's 14 seniors, highlighting key players like all-state defensive middie Landon Bowman, standout attacker Aaron Sylvester, and star goalie Braden Olson, who recently set a state record for saves. He shares his insights on the growth of lacrosse as a fast-paced and inclusive sport, explains his approach to identifying naturally talented goalies, and expresses pride in his graduating players who are advancing to play at the collegiate level.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Coach Jeremy Cooke of the Station Camp Bisons to discuss the team's incredible journey to becoming back-to-back state soccer champions. Despite facing massive adversity throughout the season—including numerous player injuries and Coach Cooke himself undergoing surgery to donate a kidney to fellow Coach Ronnie MacMahan just before the post-season—the team rallied to win 14 of their last 15 games. Coach Cooke reflects on how his years of experience have taught him to play the "long game" rather than focus on immediate early-season results, which proved vital in guiding this unique and special group of seniors to victory. He also shares a positive update on both his and Coach Mac's recoveries, noting that while he still has minor limitations this summer, both are healing wonderfully.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to another episode of High School Sports Saturday with Tate Mathews! This episode celebrates the conclusion of the high school athletic season and the spectacular results of the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA) Spring Fling championships. Tate welcomes head coach Larry Nesbitt from the Christ Presbyterian Academy (CPA) Lions baseball team to discuss their remarkable run to a state championship, capped off by a 24-game winning streak. Coach Nesbitt praises the incredible unity and selflessness of his senior-led squad and particularly highlights the standout hitting performance of sophomore Wright Martin and the depth of their top-tier pitching rotation in achieving a legendary season. The second half of the show features Patrick Whitlock, the Williamson County Schools District Athletic Director, and Tom Kreager from The Tennessean. Whitlock shares his pride in WCS securing eight total state championships during Spring Fling across various sports, describing the unprecedented achievement as an absolute testament to the dedication of the county's student-athletes and coaching staff. Tom Kreager joins the program to share the top storylines of the postseason, shining a spotlight on Station Camp's emotional and inspiring back-to-back state soccer title. They also break down the standout performances of individual athletes like Cameron High from Brentwood High School, who set a state hurdles record, and discuss how mid-state sports programs completely dominated the championship landscape.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Tom Kreager, and the duo dives into an extensive recap of the high school sports landscape following the conclusion of Spring Fling. They discuss several state championship victories across Middle Tennessee, highlighting Station Camp’s back-to-back soccer championship over South Doyle—including the emotional story of coach Jeremy Cook donating a kidney—as well as Ravenwood’s historic soccer title win over Beardan in penalty kicks. The conversation expands to celebrate standout team performances from Brentwood boys' track and Pearl-Cohn track and field, alongside an appreciation for CPA's dominant baseball run. After a quick promotional segment for the D1 Football Academy in Cool Springs, they shift to naming their top individual performers of the tournament: Tate selects three-time state champion sprinter China Harris Rucker, while Tom highlights Ravenwood goalkeeper Connor Shave for his clutch penalty kick saves. Finally, Tom previews the upcoming sports calendar, detailing the conclusion of the softball tournament, the launch of a position-by-position football preview series starting with the area's top quarterbacks, and the ongoing preparations for the high school Sports Awards on June 9th.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Patrick Whitlock, a school district athletic director, to recap an unprecedented and unparalleled run of success for Williamson County Schools at Spring Fling. The duo highlights numerous state championship victories across multiple sports, detailing Brentwood High's sweep in boys and girls tennis, Nolensville's wire-to-wire run in boys lacrosse, and Ravenwood's dramatic penalty-kick upset over nationally ranked Bearden in boys soccer. They also celebrate dominant track and field performances, including a state-record hurdle time by Brentwood's Cameron High, stellar distance running from Lauren Banovac, and a dual championship finish for independent senior Asher Oats. The conversation wraps up with a discussion on the logistical challenges of navigating weather delays, the growing prominence of girls lacrosse and flag football, a legendary comeback win by coach Rodriguez's squad, and a proud presentation of the county's academic and athletic accolades ahead of the upcoming Wilco Awards.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Christ Presbyterian Academy (CPA) baseball head coach Larry Nesbitt to discuss the team's incredible run to a state championship. Nesbitt reflects on the significance of ending the season on a 24-game winning streak and praises the unselfishness, tight-knit culture, and leadership of his nine seniors, noteably short stop Burton Moore. He highlights the remarkable depth of his pitching staff—which includes standouts like Beau Holloway, Eli Dickey, and Weston Williford—and commends the postseason performances of several underclassmen, including a standout four-for-four game from sophomore Wright Martin. The conversation wraps up with Nesbitt expressing the immense joy he felt watching the team celebrate their final out and looking ahead to his upcoming weekend plans coaching 13-year-old baseball.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to another episode of High School Sports Saturday with Tate Mathews! Today’s show delivers a comprehensive look across Middle Tennessee as regional play winds down and teams punch their tickets to the state tournament. Tate kicks things off with Cascade Champions baseball coach Travis Sheffield, celebrating their dramatic, grueling 11-inning victory over Huntingdon. Coach Sheffield breaks down his pitching staff’s historic showing, anchored by ace Jaden Hathcock's brilliant 8-inning no-hitter, and discusses managing graduation schedules alongside player injuries ahead of their high-stakes run in Murfreesboro. Next, Franklin Admirals soccer coach Mike Burgoyne drops by to talk about their balanced squad's upcoming sectional showdown against the physical Beach Buccaneers. With his team riding high on regional clean sheets, Coach Burgoyne highlights stellar performances from goalkeeper Sawyer Skelton, breaks down the squad's early morning curfew plans, and reflects on his emotional decision to step down from his legendary coaching tenure at the end of this season. Finally, Tate is joined by local sports expert Tom Kreager for a rapid-fire rundown of the inaugural Class AA Girls' Flag Football and Lacrosse State Championships. Tom recaps Mount Juliet and Ravenwood's unforgettable flag football battle, praises Nolensville and Page's stellar runs on the lacrosse field, and looks ahead to a jam-packed schedule of sectional baseball and softball action.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Tom Kreager as they recap the exciting start to the state championships. They discuss the impressive performance of Mount Juliet and Ravenwood in girls' flag football, highlighting a thrilling game that came down to a big catch by Avery Brown. Tom shares his thoughts on the exceptional athleticism on display and notes the presence of several football players supporting the teams. Turning to lacrosse, they celebrate the dominance of Williamson County teams, with multiple state championships won. Tom specifically mentions Nolensville's strong performance in the double-A division and previews upcoming matchups. They emphasize the growing popularity and success of lacrosse as a sanctioned sport. The conversation then shifts to baseball and softball, with Tom providing updates on recent games, noting surprising outcomes and standout performances by teams like Siegel and Lincoln County. Finally, they address the structural changes to the state track meet, acknowledging the logistical challenges and mixed reactions from fans and families.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Franklin Admirals soccer coach Mike Burgoyne ahead of a critical sectional match against the Beach Buccaneers. Celebrating the Admirals' balanced play and recent postseason shutouts against Shelbyville and Ravenwood, Burgoyne gives early scouting reports on Beach's physical, high-scoring roster. He shines a spotlight on his own key players, including star goalkeeper Sawyer Skelton—who boasts 10 clean sheets this season—and resilient forward Caleb Moss. Reflecting on the game's unique 11:00 AM kickoff time to accommodate Beach's graduation schedule, Burgoyne shares insight into the team's self-imposed curfew. In a poignant conclusion, he reflects on his legendary coaching career at Franklin as he prepares to step down at the end of the season to spend more time with his family.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Cascade champion baseball coach Travis Sheffield as the team prepares for a thrilling run in the Spring Fling state tournament. Reflecting on their intense, back-to-back victories against Huntington in the sectional round, Sheffield breaks down how the boys survived a grueling, 11-inning "boxing match" of a first game. He credits their success to a stellar pitching rotation—highlighted by ace Jaden Hathcock's phenomenal eight-inning, no-hitter performance—and a rock-solid defense that has anchored the team all season. Looking ahead, Sheffield discusses balancing graduation festivities with upcoming practice schedules, navigating key player injuries, and maintaining a focused, consistent approach as they gear up to face top-tier competition at Riverdale or Stewarts Creek.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Ravenwood high school girls' flag football coach Ricky Rodriguez, aka "Rick Rod," to celebrate the Lady Raptors' thrilling victory in the inaugural state championship game. Coach Rodriguez shares the intense emotional and physical toll of the tournament, reflecting on how his team rallied from a daunting 25-0 deficit in the third quarter against Mount Juliet. He praises the outstanding performances of key players like quarterback Carol Murvol and multi-sport athlete Allie Joyce, while emphasizing the powerhouse defense that anchored their season. Looking ahead, Rodriguez acknowledges the rising competition in the state, specifically from Mount Juliet, and expresses deep gratitude for the unique bond he formed coaching this special group of girls.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to another episode of High School Sports Saturday, hosted by Tate Mathews on 104.5 The Zone! Today’s show is packed with exciting guests and local sports news. We begin with Randall Clemens, who shares details about the "Home Runs and Home Teams" baseball exhibit in Granville, Tennessee, running through October 31st. Jeremy Moore also joins us to discuss his return as the head men's basketball coach at Independence High School, while Derek Day from Eastern Kentucky University shares his experiences recruiting high school talent in Middle Tennessee. Plus, we’ll hear about the upcoming QB camp with Scott Semptimphelter and get the latest updates on the TACA state tournament qualifiers. Finally, we wrap up with a special visit from College Football Hall of Famer Boots Donnelly. It’s a great day to celebrate high school sports in our community!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by coach Jeremy Moore, who has returned for a second stint as the head basketball coach at Independence High School. The two share a friendly and informal conversation, reflecting on Moore’s career path and his excitement to lead the Eagles once again. Key topics of their discussion include: Moore’s Professional Journey: Moore reflects on his first tenure at Independence from 2009 to 2012, his time at Centennial High School, and his brief departure from coaching before returning to Independence. A Familiar Environment: He discusses the professional and efficient hiring process led by Dr. Patton and the Independence administration, as well as the unique "community feel" and high-energy game day atmosphere at the school. The Role of a Coach: Moore emphasizes his love for the camaraderie of the locker room and the importance of building relationships with his players, acknowledging the unique challenges modern high school athletes face with social media. Strategy and Preparation: He expresses his passion for scouting and game planning as a way to stay competitive and contribute to the team's success. Looking Ahead: Moore shares his enthusiasm for the upcoming summer season and the opportunity to evaluate the returning talent and build a dedicated coaching staff. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.