Texas HS Athletic Directors Association: Director's Cut

In this THSADA Director’s Cut Hall of Honor Series episode, Jennifer Frazier of McKinney ISD reflects on her unique path into athletic administration and how mentorship, intentional leadership, and innovation continue to shape her approach.Grounded in the influence of leaders and mentors, Jennifer has built her philosophy around developing others, fostering strong relationships, and creating environments where people are prepared before opportunity arrives. Whether inside her department or across the state, her focus remains the same: invest in people and lead with purpose.In this episode, she discusses:What it looks like to build leaders from within and create a culture of growthHow “little conversations” can strengthen relationships and prevent larger leadership breakdownsWhy listening, discernment, and timing are essential in today’s educational landscapeThese reflections offer valuable perspective for both aspiring and current athletic administrators looking to develop others, communicate effectively, and continue evolving as leaders.Special thanks to LED Partners for helping make this setup possible. Their mobile display solution was assembled in less than 90 minutes and helped bring this Director’s Cut conversation to life.

In this THSADA Director’s Cut Hall of Honor Series episode, Lynn Pool reflects on a decorated career in education-based athletics as a student-athlete, national championship coach, and athletic administrator.Grounded in loyalty, relationships, and a commitment to building something that lasts, Pool’s journey spans decades of impact, from championship courts to district-wide leadership. Influenced by legendary coaches and shaped by real-world challenges, she has remained focused on developing people, supporting coaches, and strengthening programs from the inside out.In this episode, she discusses:What it means to build and sustain a program over timeWhy “coaching coaches” is essential to long-term successHow strong relationships and solution-based leadership drive progress, even with limited resourcesThese reflections offer valuable perspective for both aspiring and current athletic administrators looking to lead with consistency, care, and a long-term vision that outlasts any single season.Special thanks to LED Partners for helping make this setup possible. Their mobile display solution was assembled in less than 90 minutes and helped bring this Director’s Cut conversation to life!

In this THSADA Director’s Cut Hall of Honor Series episode, Stan Lang reflects on a remarkable 40-year career in education-based athletics, culminating as the District Athletic Director for Northside ISD in San Antonio.Rooted in servant leadership, Stan built his legacy by developing coaches, shaping culture, and using athletics as a platform to impact lives far beyond the game. From his early life in inner-city Las Vegas to being mentored by coaches who changed his trajectory, Stan shares how those foundational experiences shaped his leadership philosophy and his commitment to paying it forward.In this episode, he discusses what it takes to build a culture that lasts, why leaders must focus on coaching adults before athletes, and how consistency, accountability, and care can transform entire programs over time.Stan also shares leadership insights on:• The importance of showing up every day and leading through adversity • Building culture by investing in coaches first • Coaching up your team and empowering others to lead • Balancing accountability with encouragement and support • Understanding that culture is built over years, not momentsThese reflections offer valuable perspective for both aspiring and current athletic administrators looking to lead with purpose and create lasting impact.Special thanks to LED Partners for helping make this setup possible. Their mobile display solution was assembled in less than 90 minutes and helped bring this Director’s Cut conversation to life.

In this THSADA Director’s Cut Hall of Honor Series, Leslie Slovak reflects on a remarkable 30-year career in Richardson ISD and the leadership lessons that shaped her journey from coach to Athletic Director.Known for putting people first, Leslie built her career around developing coaches, empowering student-athletes, and creating programs that made a lasting impact on her community. In this episode, she shares what it meant to spend an entire career in one district, why relationships and trust mattered so much to her leadership, and how strong support from district leadership helped make that commitment possible.Leslie also speaks candidly about leadership and the growth that comes with experience, including the importance of surrounding yourself with strong people, listening before responding, and recognizing that great leaders don’t always have to provide immediate answers. Her reflections on patience, self-awareness, and learning to slow down offer valuable insight for both aspiring and current athletic administrators.Special thanks to LED Partners for helping make this setup possible. Their mobile display solution was assembled in less than 90 minutes and helped bring this Director’s Cut conversation to life.

In this THSADA Director’s Cut, presented by LED Partners, we recap the 2026 Spring Sponsor Showcase and highlight seven key takeaways that are shaping the future of education-based athletics in Texas.This episode captures the energy, insight, and collaboration that defined the event, bringing together Athletic Directors and corporate partners committed to strengthening programs across the state.Throughout the episode, featured clips explore:Building meaningful partnerships that extend beyond transactions Why service and responsiveness still matter most to Athletic Directors How innovation is helping schools operate more efficiently The continued emphasis on student-athlete safety New tools for storytelling and community engagement The importance of alignment with the Texas Way How strong sponsor relationships ultimately serve kids and communitiesThe 2026 Spring Sponsor Showcase reinforced that when sponsors and schools work together with shared purpose, the impact goes far beyond products — it strengthens campuses, communities, and public education.

In this THSADA Director’s Cut, Andre' Walker, Senior Executive Director of Athletics and UIL Activities - Houston ISD and THSADA President, shares the experiences and lessons that shaped his journey into athletic leadership.Andre reflects on the pivotal moments that set his career in motion — from being challenged by a principal to pursue leadership before he felt ready, to gaining hands-on administrative experience long before earning the title. He explains how preparation, mentorship, and consistency opened doors he wasn’t actively chasing.Throughout the episode, Andre' discusses:Learning the UIL rulebook early and why it matteredDoing the work of an administrator before holding the titleThe impact of mentors who saw potential before he didHow patience and excellence in your current role create opportunitiesHe also offers practical guidance for aspiring and current Athletic Directors, emphasizing the importance of staying committed to growth and professional development through Texas High School Athletic Directors Association.This episode is presented by RefReps, a proud THSADA partner providing a comprehensive sports officiating education curriculum across more than a dozen sports. Through standardized lessons, assessments, and interactive point-of-view video training, RefReps helps schools equip students with the knowledge and confidence to understand the rules, mechanics, and responsibilities of officiating before stepping onto the field, court, or mat.Whether you’re pursuing the role or already serving as an Athletic Director, this episode reinforces a simple truth: leadership is built through preparation, service, and consistency.

2025 was a landmark year for the Texas High School Athletic Directors Association – a year defined by growth, innovation, and impact. In this special Director’s Cut episode, we take a powerful look back at the moments, voices, and milestones that made this year one for the record books.From record-setting attendance at major events like the State Conference, Fall Forum, and Spring Sponsor Showcase, to new initiatives like the Texas Cup and Educate • Excel • Play, THSADA’s commitment to school-based athletics reached new heights. We also expanded our reach through JAM Satellite Sessions and leveraged impactful digital content to support ADs across the state like never before.This year-end highlight reel brings together some of the most compelling interviews, reflections, and leadership moments captured on video in 2025. You’ll hear from seasoned athletic directors, rising leaders, and expert voices who reflect on purpose, passion, and the lasting value of interscholastic athletics.Special thanks to our episode sponsor, Hellas Construction, and to all THSADA members, partners, and supporters who helped make 2025 such a meaningful success. Here's to building on that momentum in 2026.

Go back to the 2025 State Conference with a panel of Texas athletic directors who led their programs to state championships in 2025. In this special Director’s Cut episode these leaders share what it takes to build a winning culture, support student-athletes, and lead with purpose at the highest level of competition.Sponsored by Nevco Sports — delivering game-day excellence through industry-leading scoreboards, LED displays, and sports technology solutions.

In this THSADA Director’s Cut we feature Dr. Leonard Merrell, a longtime Texas public school superintendent, Senior Consultant with the Center for Effective Schools, and member of the THSADA Superintendent TAAC Advisory Committee. In our conversation Leonard shares timeless insights on leadership, mentorship, and navigating change in today’s evolving school and athletic environments.Through decades of experience as a superintendent and community builder, Dr. Merrell reflects on what it takes to identify true leadership, the value of asking the right questions, and how personal growth and professional vision go hand in hand. With warmth, honesty, and wisdom, he reminds us that leadership isn't about knowing everything, it’s about knowing people, embracing change, and staying rooted in purpose.This Director’s Cut is proudly presented by GameStrat, a trusted sideline replay solution supporting coaches and athletic programs across the country — and a valued partner of THSADA.Whether you're an aspiring AD, a seasoned administrator, or someone passionate about servant leadership, this conversation is filled with meaningful takeaways for anyone shaping the future of education and athletics in Texas.

In this episode of the THSADA Director’s Cut powered by KALWALL we sit down with Rodney Chant, Executive Director of Athletics for San Angelo ISD and a THSADA Hall of Honor inductee, to explore the leadership lessons learned across districts big and small.Rodney reflects on his journey from multi-high school districts like Fort Bend and Pasadena to the tight-knit community of San Angelo, where relationships run deep and Friday night lights still shut down the town.This candid conversation covers:The transition from metro to rural athleticsAdvice for young coaches starting their careersHow to draw the line between leadership and friendshipThe 40+ item checklist he uses to set coaches up for successWhy all sports deserve equal support and visibilityWhether you're a new coach, a seasoned AD, or simply passionate about Texas high school athletics, this episode offers grounded insights from a leader who’s still doing the work—and doing it well.👉 Watch now and hear why experience, empathy, and pacing yourself are keys to long-term success in athletic leadership.

In this episode of the THSADA Director’s Cut, we take you inside the 2025 Fall Forum, hosted at Northside ISD, where athletic leaders from across Texas gathered for two days of connection, reflection, and professional growth.From an energizing kickoff message by Dr. Charles Breithaupt to a packed slate of workshop sessions, this year’s Forum tackled the most pressing topics facing athletic administrators today. These Included:How to Scale Your Impact with AI, Content and BrandingALL Duties as AssignedPlaying Smarter – Enhancing Athletic Spaces with Innovation and SafetyWhistles and WisdomHot TopicsUIL UpdatesWhether you're leading a large district or just getting started in athletic administration, this recap delivers practical takeaways on leadership, collaboration, and creating a culture of excellence.Special thanks to our episode sponsor, Hometown your trusted partner in growing school revenue through powerful websites, ticketing, and fundraising tools that bring your community together for unforgettable hometown experiences.

In this episode of the THSADA Director’s Cut, we sit down with Mike Buddie, Director of Athletics at TCU and former Major League Baseball pitcher.From his playing days in the Yankees organization to leadership roles at Furman and Army West Point, Buddie brings a seasoned, real-world perspective to the challenges facing athletic administrators today.He shares how his leadership philosophy was shaped by working under a four-star general, why understanding the difference between what’s critical and what’s urgent is essential, and how he intentionally balances work and family in a 24/7 profession.Whether you’re an aspiring leader or a veteran AD navigating a new era of expectations, this conversation offers practical insight on culture, communication, and keeping the main thing the main thing.Special thanks to our episode sponsor, QHF Sports, a Texas-based leader in sports floor maintenance and installation. From repairs and refinishing to permanent and portable basketball and volleyball courts, QHF helps schools deliver safe, professional-grade playing surfaces across the state. Learn more at qhfsports.com.

In this episode of the THSADA Director’s Cut, we sit down with Trev Alberts, Director of Athletics at Texas A&M University and former Butkus Award-winning linebacker.From his time as an All-American player at Nebraska, to his years as a national broadcaster, to now leading one of the most visible programs in college sports, Alberts brings a full-circle perspective to the challenges facing coaches and athletic leaders today.He opens up about the emotional toll of the current NIL climate, the cultural cost of constant instability, and how to hire and support coaches who are truly in it for the right reasons.Whether you're leading at the high school level or managing the pressures of a large district or university, this conversation is a powerful reminder that integrity, clarity, and mission alignment still matter - especially in times of chaos.Special thanks to our episode sponsor, PBK Architects, a proud partner of Texas school districts and a national leader in designing future-ready athletic and academic facilities.

In this episode of the THSADA Director’s Cut, we sit down with Richard Kilgore, Superintendent of Bruceville-Eddy ISD and the 2025 THSADA Superintendent of the Year. With 38 years in education — 19 of those as superintendent — Kilgore shares what superintendents are really looking for when they hire an athletic director.From balancing flexibility and firmness, to understanding why integrity is evaluated long before the interview, to using active listening as a leadership superpower, Kilgore offers practical, real-world insights for athletic administrators at every stage of their career.Whether you’re preparing for your first AD interview or refining your leadership approach, this conversation delivers tools, perspective, and wisdom you can put into action right away.Special thanks to our episode sponsor Whataburger a proud supporter of the THSADA.

In this episode of the THSADA Director’s Cut, we sit down with Coach Mike Bass, a longtime Texas athletic director known for building trust, relationships, and community-centered programs that last.Coach Bass shares his blueprint for success, covering everything from:Leading large-scale facility projects with lasting impactBuilding strong partnerships with architects and stakeholdersWinning community support before bond electionsRevitalizing official recruitment through statewide collaborationStaying a lifelong learner through peer-led professional developmentHe also reflects on the power of THSADA Region meetings—why showing up, sharing ideas, and connecting with fellow ADs can lead to better decisions and stronger leadership across the state.Whether you're a new AD or a seasoned leader, this conversation is packed with practical insight and real-world strategies you can apply in your own district.Special thanks to our episode sponsor, Spectrum by Watchfire — digital display solutions that transform game-day and community engagement.

In this episode of the THSADA Director’s Cut, we sit down with Dr. Charles Breithaupt, former Executive Director of the UIL and one of the most influential voices in Texas high school athletics.From humble beginnings in Buna, Texas, to leading a team that managed over a million UIL contests a year, Dr. Breithaupt shares lessons from a lifetime of servant leadership and conflict resolution in one of the largest school systems in the country.He opens up about the unseen responsibilities of athletic directors, how great leaders build trust before they ever hold a title, and why every game—and every parent—matters.Topics covered in this episode include: Navigating conflict before it reaches the field, Earning influence when you don’t have authority, Building lasting relationships across districts, and What it really takes to protect and grow school culture.Whether you're managing a 1A program or a 6A powerhouse, this conversation offers a masterclass in leadership, humility, and the long game.Presented by PracticePlan.io — the zero-cost online platform that streamlines and automates your facility scheduling and rental process. Save time. Generate revenue. Schedule smarter.

Welcome to a special edition of THSADA Director’s Cut, recapping the largest State Conference in association history!In this episode, we dig into the real conversations, leadership lessons, and powerful moments that made this year’s event unforgettable. You’ll hear from voices across the state — including insights from TAAC certification sessions, the College AD Panel, and exclusive interviews at the GoVision Director’s Cut Stage.Featured Topics:Why “telling the story that matters” is critical for your athletic programHow to prioritize what’s urgent vs. critical as an ADDeveloping the “it factor” that defines your leadershipWhy rehearsing your emergency action plans matters more than everAnd so much more from leaders shaping Texas athleticsSpecial thanks to Musco Sports Lighting, a proud sponsor of the TAAC platform and long-time supporter of THSADA, for making this episode possible.

In this episode of the THSADA Director’s Cut – Hall of Honor Series presented by GigaTera Lighting, we sit down with Brenda Marshall, a 2025 Hall of Honor inductee and lifelong leader at Corpus Christi ISD.With nearly four decades of service, Brenda’s story is a powerful reflection on breaking barriers, mentoring the next generation, and earning respect in a space where women were once sidelined. She shares her early experiences in a male-dominated field, the creative ways she built programs from the ground up, and why showing up — prepared, informed, and authentic — has always been her leadership superpower.Topics covered in this episode include:Resilient leadership in a changing industryMentorship, legacy, and building future ADsWhat’s changed for women in athletics — and what still needs workInsight from the 2025 Spring Sponsor Showcase🎧 Whether you're an aspiring leader or seasoned AD, this episode is packed with real wisdom from someone who’s seen it all and still shows up with purpose.Presented by GigaTera Lighting — innovators in durable, non-spill LED solutions designed for high-performance sports environments.

In Episode 2 of the THSADA Director’s Cut – Hall of Honor Series, we sit down with Todd Vesely, a 2025 THSADA Hall of Honor inductee whose career spans from humble beginnings as a gymnastics coach in Odessa to leading one of the largest athletic programs in Texas at Fort Worth ISD.Powered live by GoVision at the 2025 Spring Sponsor Showcase, this episode offers more than a look back — it’s an honest, insightful conversation about leadership, legacy, and what comes next.Todd reflects on:Overcoming early doubt and defying expectationsBuilding culture through influence, not authorityThe transferable skills coaches carry into life after retirementHow artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of athletic administrationWhether you’re a veteran AD or just starting your leadership journey, this episode delivers real talk, real lessons, and a vision for where Texas high school athletics is headed.

In this special Hall of Honor Series episode of the THSADA Director’s Cut, we sit down with Ray Zepeda, UIL’s Director of Athletics and a 2025 inductee into the THSADA Hall of Honor.From humble beginnings as a Houston-area coach to leading statewide initiatives that impact thousands, Ray shares powerful reflections on the role of mentorship, the strength of community, and the passion that’s fueled his journey for more than three decades.We talk about:His path from the sideline to UIL leadershipThe launch and statewide impact of The Texas Way sportsmanship initiativeNavigating legislative challenges in education-based athleticsBalancing family, purpose, and a career of serviceThis episode is more than a celebration of a remarkable career — it’s a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and staying mission-driven in the face of change.🎙️ Recorded live at the 2025 THSADA Spring Sponsor Showcase 🎧 Presented by PracticePlan – the zero-cost platform transforming facility scheduling and rental revenue for Texas school districts.