HTXHSFBCA COACHES SPOTLIGHT

Presented by

Josue Flores
Director of Football Operations/Varsity Assistant Coach, Pflugerville Weiss HS

Why Coaching?
My passion for helping others grow and succeed was one of the main reasons that I chose this profession. Growing up in a household where both of my parents were educators was also another reason for choosing this profession. Although both of my parents were not coaches - watching them make an impact in the lives of their students and seeing that, had a huge impact on my future. I will also say that I was extremely blessed to have some amazing coaches (elementary through high school)that shaped my views of this profession and what it takes to lead.
Years of Coaching
21 Years.
Life Lessons
The greatest life lesson coaching has taught me is the importance of resilience and adaptability. In the journey of personal and professional growth, setbacks and challenges are inevitable. Coaching has shown me that it's not about avoiding these obstacles but rather about how we respond to them. Learning to bounce back from failure, adapt to change, and persevere through difficult times is key to achieving success and fulfillment. It's about embracing challenges as opportunities for learning and growth, and understanding that setbacks are not the end of the road but rather detours on the path to our goals. This lesson has not only strengthened my resilience as a coach but has also influenced how I navigate my own life's ups and downs.
Biggest Influence
Throughout my coaching career, I’ve been blessed to work with some amazing coaches that have shaped my coaching, but in the end I would say that my biggest influence is my children; Diego, Lola & Joaquin. They are my reasons for striving for greatness and perfection. As my parents showed me when I was their age……hard work pays off.
Minority Coaches
As a minority coach, one of the biggest challenges in the profession is often the lack of representation and access to opportunities. Minority coaches face multiple barriers such as systemic bias, limited networks, and stereotypes that can hinder our advancement and recognition within the coaching community. Moreover, breaking into established networks and gaining recognition is predominantly challenging for minority coaches. Overcoming these obstacles often requires resilience, persistence, and proactive efforts to build connections, advocating for inclusivity, which is why organizations such as the Hispanic TXHSFB Coaches Association is so important because it is helping us network together and building up our exposure.
Young Coaches
My advice to young coaches would be to invest in education & training. Work toward building a strong foundation of knowledge and skills. Attend every clinic and coaches’ chalk talk you can! Pursue a Master’s degree and doctoral degree. No job is too big or too small. The next thing I would tell them is to seek out a mentor. Someone that you can seek guidance from and that you value their insight. A great mentor can help you grow in this profession. Another piece of advice is to practice being an active listener; don’t talk, just listen. Developing this skill will help you down the road. Older coaches in this profession want to leave it better than they found it and will be willing to share lots of great advice. Again, don’t talk - just listen. My last piece of advice would be to practice self-care & reflection. Coaching can be emotionally demanding, so prioritize your own well-being and self-care. Set boundaries, and manage your workload effectively, and take time to recharge and replenish your energy. A happy life is when you have a happy home.
Previous
Next

Adrian Trevino
Assistant Head Coach/Defensive Coordinator, SA Stevens HS

Why Coaching?
I consider myself very fortunate that I knew, early on in life, what profession I wanted to enter after high school and college. I was blessed to have two outstanding mentors who provided guidance and a standard for what educators should be. The impact that they had on their students and players, like myself, is what solidified my decision to choose education as a career. How they impacted young adults in the classroom and on the field, by providing opportunities, hope and faith was something I envisioned myself doing. Education and coaching was my calling.
Years of Coaching
I am finishing up my 19th year in education.
Life Lessons
We cannot always dictate our circumstances, but we can control our response to our circumstances We all have a path and that path will be challenging, at times. Humility will carry us through success and our core values are what keep us on track during the most difficult of times. Through it all, we must stay grounded and stay the course.
Biggest Influence
As I mentioned before, I was blessed to have two outstanding high school teachers - my high school English teacher Ms. Anita Arnold and my football coach, Layne Cole. They instilled the value of hard work, perseverance, and character into anyone they taught or coached. They changed lives for the better and provided hope. They encouraged us to push our limits and get out of our comfort zone. They helped us create a vision and a plan for the life we wanted to create for ourselves, despite our circumstances. Many of the lessons that I learned from them I still use today with my own students and players.
Minority Coaches
Opportunities to rise in the coaching ranks. As minorities, we must continue to be ambitious and educate ourselves on what it takes to ascend the coaching ranks. We must do our due diligence when preparing for leadership roles and ensure that as the face of an athletic program, campus and community, we represent the standard as an educator and human being. In addition, as mentors we must also do our due diligence when preparing the next generation of coaches for leadership roles.
Young Coaches
The Best Coaches are the Best Teachers, in the classroom and on the field. You cannot dictate your circumstances, but you can control your response to your circumstances. Stay strong and stay the course! Relationships are everything. Be loyal and be about your people - your students, your players, your colleagues, your administration and your community. Listen first. Seek first to understand, then to be understood. Be sure to network within the coaching community!
Previous
Next
Why Coaching?
I was blessed to have great coaches who believed in me throughout my education. Coach Oscar Cardenas was my Offensive Coordinator at Harlandale. Coach Cardenas' brother Edward Cardenas was my Defensive Coordinator while at Harlandale also. Both men believed heavily in me, my Head Football Coach was Isaac Martinez who held me to a standard and never lowered it. All these men bestowed life lessons in me that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Any of the above coaches and their assistants could have gone anywhere to go and coach, but they believed in a community, more importantly cultivating leaders in the community. Each day I looked forward to athletics and seeing their faces at lunch duty. My Principal at Harlandale was a former coach, each day I was surrounded by leaders and I knew that is what I wanted to do.
Years of Coaching
This will be my 9th year in the profession.
Life Lessons
If you only seek validation on Friday nights, this profession isn’t for you. The interactions you have with athletes everyday can be the difference in their life. The day you stop learning is the day you stop growing. Your primary sport is just as important as your second sport. The classroom is just as important as the athletic field, in season is just as important as off season. Failure to adhere to all the above is a disservice to your Head Coach and Principal.
Biggest Influence
Rudy Villegas (Assistant Head Coach Brandeis) is a coach that every young coach should have in their life. Coach Villegas didn’t tell me what I wanted to hear, he told me what I needed to hear as a young coach. As a young coach, you don’t know what you don’t know. If you aren’t growing in season and off season as coach, you are doing yourself a disservice. Desmon Battle is also a tremendous Head Coach Athletic Director (Crystal City), but I couldn’t ask for a better colleague.
Minority Coaches
Seeing coaches that resemble themselves in positions of leadership (i.e. Athletic Directors) for districts. In the near future, I hope to see representation of mi gente in those positions.
Young Coaches
Be a sponge every day, you should be willing to grow in all aspects of coaching. Understand you work for your Coordinator and you work for your Head Coach. Learn both sides of the ball, learning both will help you grow. Your job is to work every day, in return you should seek advice both schematically and be an asset to your school. Don’t chase positions, find someone that will invest in you and don’t be afraid to network. Each Head Coach and Coordinator was once in your position, the details and standards are crucial to the success of a program. In time, your opportunity will come. But luck doesn’t find itself on those who aren’t primed for the opportunity. You never know who knows who in our profession, Assistant Principals become Principals, Assistant coaches become Coordinators, and Coordinators become Head Football Coaches. What you decide to do every day will carry with you, treat each person with the utmost respect.
Previous
Next
Why Coaching?
I got into coaching to have a positive impact on kids just like my coaches did for me and my teammates. They poured into us and instilled a hard-working mentality. Thank you to my PSJA NORTH Coaching Family! No greater feeling than seeing my former players becoming coaches.
Years of Coaching
14 Years.
Life Lessons
The most important metric of a successful coach is the strong bonds built with colleagues and former players along the way. Fostering those relationships through coaching football makes for life lasting friendships.
Biggest Influence
I have worked with many great coaches along the way but was fortunate enough to play and work for Coach Freddy Hernandez. When Coach Hernandez arrived at PSJA NORTH he brought over Coach Louie Navarro (RIP) who became my shot/discus coach. He was another major influence and taught me how to pay attention to detail.
Minority Coaches
I feel like our biggest challenge as minority coaches is a reluctance to broaden our network. Let us not forget that this great game of football is the ultimate uniter of people from all walks of life.
Young Coaches
I would say don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek out those who have experience in our profession. Enjoy building meaningful relationships with the players and no doubt some will return to coach the next generation.
Previous
Next
Why Coaching?
I decided to become a coach because some of the greatest role models I have had were teachers and coaches. I wanted the opportunity to have the same impact on future generations.
Years of Coaching
This is my 12th year as a coach.
Life Lessons
I’ve learned numerous life lessons through coaching, but I would have to say that one of the most important is how to handle adversity. Nothing comes easy, and you have to be willing to put the work in. There is no success without failure.
Biggest Influence
Seth Parr has been my biggest influence as a coach. I had the privilege to play under him in high school and he has been a mentor for me in my personal life, as well as my coaching career.
Minority Coaches
One of the biggest hurdles for minority coaches is changing the belief that you have to look like your players in order to effectively coach them and build a solid program. You can relate with your players in a variety of areas, it doesn’t solely depend on your ethnicity.
Young Coaches
I would tell young coaches that they have to be willing to learn throughout their entire career. Networking is a must, but you must always be where your feet are. Embrace the idea of servant leadership and be willing to help grow the next generation of coaches.
Previous
Next
Why Coaching?
I got into coaching because of my own past history and trials with not only sports, but with life in general. I am a firm believer that through the rigor of sports, lives can be molded and transformed for the betterment of the student athletes. Only in sports are their lessons learned through certain hardships that can better equip students for the future.
Years of Coaching
I have been coaching for 14 years.
Life Lessons
The greatest life lesson coaching has taught me is that greatness is only achieved through great perseverance and discipline.
Biggest Influence
The biggest influence as a coach, along with my parents has been Jesus Christ. How Jesus Christ lived His life of servitude leadership influences me to live a life focused on serving others.
Minority Coaches
The biggest challenge for minority coaches in the coaching profession is breaking coaching stereotypes among sports.
Young Coaches
My advice for prospective young coaches is keeping growing your knowledge of all sports and sport ethics. Also there are no short cuts to moving up the coaching ladder, outwork your competition.
Previous
Next
Why Coaching?
I had a great high school experience. I was fortunate to play under a great group of men at Lewisville High School. As a whole, they showed me the power of transformational coaching and the platform it can be for changing young people for the better.
Years of Coaching
22 years.
Life Lessons
Coaching is truly a calling and platform. We all have the opportunity to use it in a positive way.
Biggest Influence
Ronnie Gage. I played for Coach Gage in high school and was fortunate to be hired by him when I graduated college. He’s been a constant mentor in my career. In my opinion, he is the ultimate professional and a model of how Texas High School Football Coaches should represent the profession on and off the field.
Minority Coaches
Although I think our representation has gotten better, I feel like it is still difficult for us to become head coaches.
Young Coaches
Find a mentor coach that you trust and can truly learn from. Don’t look for shortcuts. Do the work and make yourself irreplaceable in your current position. Be authentic. Practice what you preach.
Previous
Next
Why Coaching?
I have had a deep love for sports going all the way back to my high school playing days. I had a coach in Tulia, Richard Barnes, who taught me how important coach to player relationships are. His coaching style is what drew me to the profession.
Years of Coaching
This is my 11th year of coaching.
Life Lessons
We are in the kid business. These young athletes and students need great role models in their life each and every day. Each kid's life and day to day situations are different. As coaches, it’s important to connect with each kid and the way you go about doing this changes for each one. Provide a model of consistency each day and be the coach that you looked for growing up.
Biggest Influence
I have been extremely fortunate to work with some wonderful men throughout my coaching career in Dumas. Our head coach, Aaron Dunnam, has taught me the ends and outs of the profession and has helped mold me into the coach I am today. He has been a wonderful example of the type of leader and head coach I strive to be one day.
Minority Coaches
I have been fortunate to watch many minority coaches in the Panhandle succeed at a high level. I have learned that hard work and dedication to our craft will catapult you to many of the goals you have set for yourself. I believe the opportunities for minority coaches in our profession are as good today as they have ever been.
Young Coaches
When you walk into a room, soak up all the information you can and learn from every experience you go through. Be loyal to your program and other coaches that are working day in and day out with you. Be ready to take on any job or task at any time. The quickest way to achieve success in this profession is to grind day in and day out.
Previous
Next
Why Coaching?
Coaches have one of the most powerful platforms in a young person’s life. For our student-athletes, we serve as a mentor, educator, and counselor. Our profession gives individuals endless opportunities to influence, empower, and inspire others.
Years of Coaching
This is my 12th year as a high school coach and my 16th year overall.
Life Lessons
Being resilient in the face of adversity. This profession is marked with unpredictability and so many challenges, setbacks, and unexpected turns. Regardless, excuses are unacceptable. THE STANDARD IS THE STANDARD.
Biggest Influence
My high school Head Coach Anthony Zuccarini, my mentor Van Malone, the two coaches that gave me my first opportunity as a high school coach Robin Kirk and Deron Trevino, and my current boss Stephen Dixon.
Minority Coaches
The biggest challenge facing minority coaches is getting to the next level, whether it’s a high school athletic director or head coach position, or an opportunity in the college or professional ranks. However, associations such as ours provide the guidance and support to empower our coaches so when that opportunity approaches, we are ready.
Young Coaches
1. Be genuine – Don't portray someone you are not. Kids and coaches will see right through it. 2. Develop a plan – What are your short-term goals? What are your long-term goals? 3. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. 4. Be the “head coach” of your position group. 5. Trust the process – Be patient and stay on course. Success doesn’t happen overnight.
Previous
Next
Why Coaching?
My coaches throughout my lifetime are still some of the greatest influences in my life. I wanted to be that positive influence to other young adults like they were to me. Coaching allows me to make a positive impact on the lives of our players, helping shape them into confident, disciplined individuals ready to tackle life’s challenges.
Years of Coaching
I’m about to complete year 12, all in McCamey.
Life Lessons
The power of resilience. In the face of setbacks, injuries, or losses, it's essential to keep pushing forward. Learn from failures, bounce back stronger. When life hits you in the mouth, you hit back harder.
Biggest Influence
My father. He was tough on me and my siblings. Work for what you want, but make sure you do it the right way. We loved sports, but the greatest thing he wanted from us was just to be hard working, good people. That is one thing that I make sure that I try to instill in our kids.
Minority Coaches
I feel like all coaches deal with the same challenges. You have to be able to build relationships and network. You have to be able to adapt and be flexible. One of the biggest challenges is being able to adjust coaching style, strategies, and methods to meet individual needs.
Young Coaches
When there is stuff to be done, don’t wait to be told to do it. Be the coach that you would want working for you. Loyalty is one of the greatest qualities a coach can have. Coach every rep, good or bad. Communication is one of your best tools.
Previous
Next
Why Coaching?
Love of the game. The game has done so much for me as person by the men that coached me. Now, I enjoy using the game to impact lives in a positive way.
Years of Coaching
14 years: Cedar Park, Colleyville Heritage, Clear Springs, Clark
Life Lessons
Patience and Love: Trusting the process and building relationships with those around you.
Biggest Influence
My family- I want to make them all proud. My cousin, Cirilo Ojeda is a HC and we talk frequently.
Minority Coaches
All coaches need to have good mentor coaches to show them how to be professional coaches, which can be more challenging for minorities. The objective of this association is to improve quality and leadership of coaches, which is something I am happy to contribute to.
Young Coaches
Coaching is a commitment and sacrifice, but seeing the development of your athletes and accomplishing team goals is very rewarding. Plus, coaching under the Friday night lights is exciting.
Previous
Next
Why Coaching?
I got into coaching because of my deep, fundamental love of football. The game has always meant so much to me. But once I got in, I realized that it was more than just a game. I realized in a hurry that it was about helping young men achieve their goals and helping them become the best version of themselves.
Years of Coaching
I just finished my 19th year.
Life Lessons
Perseverance, patience, and faith. As great as this profession is, there is a lot of adversity and pain that comes with it. You just have to keep plugging away and good things will eventually happen.
Biggest Influence
My brother, Chuck Veliz. One of El Paso, Texas’ winningest high school football coaches.
Minority Coaches
We rarely get opportunities outside of areas that are not predominantly Hispanic. I spent 4 years in the DFW area as the OC at a successful high school and I could not get an interview for a HC position. It seems like we are always having to prove ourselves.
Young Coaches
Work hard, learn from other coaches, BE LOYAL, and most importantly PAY YOUR DUES. Don’t expect to be a coordinator right out of the gate. It is okay to work your way up and perfect your craft.
Previous
Next
Why Coaching?
I had some great coaches/teachers when I was in school that inspired me to become one.
Years of Coaching
This is my 36th year.
Life Lessons
Things are not always easy to accomplish. You have to keep working to achieve your goals, although sometimes your goals may change.
Biggest Influence
I have had the opportunity to work under some great head coaches in my career. My first job was under Hal Mumme at Copperas Cove and since then I have tried to take something from each of the head coaches I have worked for and apply it to my coaching philosophy.
Minority Coaches
The biggest challenge for other minority coaches in the profession is to be given the opportunity to earn leadership roles within the athletic program.
Young Coaches
If you want to be a good coach, you have to be a great teacher in the classroom. If you can reach your students in the classroom, then you can reach them on the field, on the court, on the track. Coaching is just an extension of your teaching.
Previous
Next
Why Coaching?
I got into coaching because I enjoy the challenge of changing lives to make sure our athletes are ready for the real world. Being able to impact athletes and teach them life skills that they will need long after they are done playing is the ultimate success.
Years of Coaching
I have been Coaching for 9 years and plan on doing this until I retire!
Life Lessons
The greatest life lesson coaching has taught me is to be patient, resilient, and listen. At the end of the day, it is more than X’s and O’s. We are molding our athletes to face life after the sport and they just need guidance and direction from us.
Biggest Influence
My biggest influence as a coach has to be my grandpa, Cleo Coronado. Till this day, athletes he has coached in their youth still come back to visit him and talk about how if it wasn’t for him, they may not be where they are now. Being able to make an impact that great is what I strive for knowing that I am making a difference.
Minority Coaches
Getting to the top. It’s a process, but once we are there we shine like no other. We got to stay grinding and moving forward. Our opportunities will come, and when they do, we have to take full advantage of them!
Young Coaches
The most important things you can do is learn, ask questions, and soak up as much information as you can. Stay involved and coach your tail off every day. You’re young, use it to your advantage.
Previous
Next
Why Coaching?
To invest in our young men and women so that they can better the world.
Years of Coaching
17 Years.
Life Lessons
It has taught me selflessness. High school is a critical period in a young person’s life. A teacher/coach can make or break a kid. It is my responsibility to learn and grow in order to invest and educate them to the best of my ability. It is not about me.
Biggest Influence
Bobby Lindquist. He coached with Jim Rackley when Rackley was at SA Southwest and was the DC for Chris Soza when Mathis went to the state championship in '99. Bobby passed along the knowledge he obtained from Rackley and Soza to make me a better coach. He mentored me by involving me in every aspect of running a football program. More importantly, he is a Man of God and Integrity. His mentorship helped me understand my relationship with God and to handle adversity and triumph with integrity.
Minority Coaches
I think the biggest challenge we face is the lie that we are not good enough or that we don’t belong. This lie can create a bitterness inside of us that infects our professional and personal lives. Once infected we cannot build the proper genuine relationships it takes to get ahead in this profession. We will always be looking over our shoulder. We must keep our eyes on the target and limit distractions.
Young Coaches
Be a person of integrity.
Previous
Next
Why Coaching?
I have always loved the sport of football. My dad was a coach and I was always around the game. I had no idea how much the game would shape me as a man and how much it would impact my life. I knew I wanted to continue in this game and use it as a tool to instill the values it teaches in young student-athletes.
Years of Coaching
17 years.
Life Lessons
I've learned a lot from coaching, but I’d have to say the #1 thing has been hard work. There’s no way around it. We all have to humble ourselves in this profession and embrace the grind. If you want nice things, you have to work for it. If you want to work your way up in this profession, you have to be willing to work for it.
Biggest Influence
My dad. He introduced me to this game. Ever since I can remember, my dad has been a coach. As soon as I was old enough, I would go to the fieldhouse with my dad. I still remember being around the guys on the practice field, in the weight room, and in the locker room. I could see the impact my dad had on his players at a young age. When I was finally old enough to play for him, it was an unforgettable experience. He was my dad at home, but he was my coach on the field. He is a big part of the man I am today and why I chose this profession for myself.
Minority Coaches
Personally, I don't feel like we have a unique set of challenges. This profession is challenging for all of us. I think that a big challenge for a lot of us is getting out there. This association has been great to get guys out there in this coaching network. We learn a lot from each other, whether that be Xs and Os or just philosophy. I am extremely proud to be a part of it and I love what it's doing for our profession.
Young Coaches
Grind! This is a tough job but it is a very rewarding job. No matter what your background is, come into this profession ready to grind. Be ready to start at the bottom and work your way up. Do not come into this profession and expect things to be given to you. You have to earn it! If you feel like you've already earned it and it's still not happening for you, grind harder!
Previous
Next
Why Coaching?
Sports (Football) has been a blessing for me since a young age. It opened new paths to personal growth, advancement opportunities and forging life-long relationships. There is no greater satisfaction than empowering others, but most especially, our kids, through coaching.
Years of Coaching
21 years & going strong.
Life Lessons
Beating adversity. It can get tough out there. Getting yourself out of a low point produces an effective, transformational leader. I’ve experienced low points in coaching- but thankfully, right now I am part of something special at Eagle Pass HS.
Biggest Influence
1. My wife Jenny, my kids Josh, Jesarah, and Jadon, and my parents, Tomas & Maria Cardenas. 2. Tom Gonzalez, HFC Eagle Pass HS. 3. Edward Graf, AD Eagle Pass ISD.
Minority Coaches
We have a robust pool of talented people representing the minority coaching community throughout the country. Many of us are first generational coaches, so it’s challenging to break through to the next level. However, we coach with passion and purpose right where we are. Every kid deserves to be well coached.
Young Coaches
1. Learn, learn, learn. 2. Don’t wait to be told what to do or how to do it. 3. Be a loyal assistant- your job is to make the AD/HFC job as smooth as possible. 4. Do your job, but be excellent at it: be uncommon.
Previous
Next

COACHES SPOTLIGHT

Presented by

HTXHSFBCA Clinic Edition of Coaches Spotlight

Josue Flores,
Director of Football Operations,
Pflugerville Weiss HS

Why Coaching?
My passion for helping others grow and succeed was one of the main reasons that I chose this profession. Growing up in a household where both of my parents were educators was also another reason for choosing this profession. Although both of my parents were not coaches - watching them make an impact in the lives of their students and seeing that, had a huge impact on my future. I will also say that I was extremely blessed to have some amazing coaches (elementary through high school)that shaped my views of this profession and what it takes to lead.
Years of Coaching
21 Years.
Life Lessons
The greatest life lesson coaching has taught me is the importance of resilience and adaptability. In the journey of personal and professional growth, setbacks and challenges are inevitable. Coaching has shown me that it's not about avoiding these obstacles but rather about how we respond to them. Learning to bounce back from failure, adapt to change, and persevere through difficult times is key to achieving success and fulfillment. It's about embracing challenges as opportunities for learning and growth, and understanding that setbacks are not the end of the road but rather detours on the path to our goals. This lesson has not only strengthened my resilience as a coach but has also influenced how I navigate my own life's ups and downs.
Biggest Influence
Throughout my coaching career, I’ve been blessed to work with some amazing coaches that have shaped my coaching, but in the end I would say that my biggest influence is my children; Diego, Lola & Joaquin. They are my reasons for striving for greatness and perfection. As my parents showed me when I was their age……hard work pays off.
Minority Coaches
As a minority coach, one of the biggest challenges in the profession is often the lack of representation and access to opportunities. Minority coaches face multiple barriers such as systemic bias, limited networks, and stereotypes that can hinder our advancement and recognition within the coaching community. Moreover, breaking into established networks and gaining recognition is predominantly challenging for minority coaches. Overcoming these obstacles often requires resilience, persistence, and proactive efforts to build connections, advocating for inclusivity, which is why organizations such as the Hispanic TXHSFB Coaches Association is so important because it is helping us network together and building up our exposure.
Young Coaches
My advice to young coaches would be to invest in education & training. Work toward building a strong foundation of knowledge and skills. Attend every clinic and coaches’ chalk talk you can! Pursue a Master’s degree and doctoral degree. No job is too big or too small. The next thing I would tell them is to seek out a mentor. Someone that you can seek guidance from and that you value their insight. A great mentor can help you grow in this profession. Another piece of advice is to practice being an active listener; don’t talk, just listen. Developing this skill will help you down the road. Older coaches in this profession want to leave it better than they found it and will be willing to share lots of great advice. Again, don’t talk - just listen. My last piece of advice would be to practice self-care & reflection. Coaching can be emotionally demanding, so prioritize your own well-being and self-care. Set boundaries, and manage your workload effectively, and take time to recharge and replenish your energy. A happy life is when you have a happy home.
Previous
Next

Adrian Trevino,
AHC/Defensive Coordinator,
Stevens HS

Why Coaching?
I consider myself very fortunate that I knew, early on in life, what profession I wanted to enter after high school and college. I was blessed to have two outstanding mentors who provided guidance and a standard for what educators should be. The impact that they had on their students and players, like myself, is what solidified my decision to choose education as a career. How they impacted young adults in the classroom and on the field, by providing opportunities, hope and faith was something I envisioned myself doing. Education and coaching was my calling.
Years of Coaching
I am finishing up my 19th year in education.
Life Lessons
We cannot always dictate our circumstances, but we can control our response to our circumstances We all have a path and that path will be challenging, at times. Humility will carry us through success and our core values are what keep us on track during the most difficult of times. Through it all, we must stay grounded and stay the course.
Biggest Influence
As I mentioned before, I was blessed to have two outstanding high school teachers - my high school English teacher Ms. Anita Arnold and my football coach, Layne Cole. They instilled the value of hard work, perseverance, and character into anyone they taught or coached. They changed lives for the better and provided hope. They encouraged us to push our limits and get out of our comfort zone. They helped us create a vision and a plan for the life we wanted to create for ourselves, despite our circumstances. Many of the lessons that I learned from them I still use today with my own students and players.
Minority Coaches
Opportunities to rise in the coaching ranks. As minorities, we must continue to be ambitious and educate ourselves on what it takes to ascend the coaching ranks. We must do our due diligence when preparing for leadership roles and ensure that as the face of an athletic program, campus and community, we represent the standard as an educator and human being. In addition, as mentors we must also do our due diligence when preparing the next generation of coaches for leadership roles.
Young Coaches
The Best Coaches are the Best Teachers, in the classroom and on the field. You cannot dictate your circumstances, but you can control your response to your circumstances. Stay strong and stay the course! Relationships are everything. Be loyal and be about your people - your students, your players, your colleagues, your administration and your community. Listen first. Seek first to understand, then to be understood. Be sure to network within the coaching community!
Previous
Next

May Week 3

Andrew Duarte,
Wide Receivers,
Wagner HS

Why Coaching?
I was blessed to have great coaches who believed in me throughout my education. Coach Oscar Cardenas was my Offensive Coordinator at Harlandale. Coach Cardenas' brother Edward Cardenas was my Defensive Coordinator while at Harlandale also. Both men believed heavily in me, my Head Football Coach was Isaac Martinez who held me to a standard and never lowered it. All these men bestowed life lessons in me that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Any of the above coaches and their assistants could have gone anywhere to go and coach, but they believed in a community, more importantly cultivating leaders in the community. Each day I looked forward to athletics and seeing their faces at lunch duty. My Principal at Harlandale was a former coach, each day I was surrounded by leaders and I knew that is what I wanted to do.
Years of Coaching
This will be my 9th year in the profession.
Life Lessons
If you only seek validation on Friday nights, this profession isn’t for you. The interactions you have with athletes everyday can be the difference in their life. The day you stop learning is the day you stop growing. Your primary sport is just as important as your second sport. The classroom is just as important as the athletic field, in season is just as important as off season. Failure to adhere to all the above is a disservice to your Head Coach and Principal.
Biggest Influence
Rudy Villegas (Assistant Head Coach Brandeis) is a coach that every young coach should have in their life. Coach Villegas didn’t tell me what I wanted to hear, he told me what I needed to hear as a young coach. As a young coach, you don’t know what you don’t know. If you aren’t growing in season and off season as coach, you are doing yourself a disservice. Desmon Battle is also a tremendous Head Coach Athletic Director (Crystal City), but I couldn’t ask for a better colleague.
Minority Coaches
Seeing coaches that resemble themselves in positions of leadership (i.e. Athletic Directors) for districts. In the near future, I hope to see representation of mi gente in those positions.
Young Coaches
Be a sponge every day, you should be willing to grow in all aspects of coaching. Understand you work for your Coordinator and you work for your Head Coach. Learn both sides of the ball, learning both will help you grow. Your job is to work every day, in return you should seek advice both schematically and be an asset to your school. Don’t chase positions, find someone that will invest in you and don’t be afraid to network. Each Head Coach and Coordinator was once in your position, the details and standards are crucial to the success of a program. In time, your opportunity will come. But luck doesn’t find itself on those who aren’t primed for the opportunity. You never know who knows who in our profession, Assistant Principals become Principals, Assistant coaches become Coordinators, and Coordinators become Head Football Coaches. What you decide to do every day will carry with you, treat each person with the utmost respect.
Previous
Next

May Week 2

Jesus Balderas,
Assistant Head Coach/DC,
Sam Rayburn HS

Why Coaching?
I got into coaching to have a positive impact on kids just like my coaches did for me and my teammates. They poured into us and instilled a hard-working mentality. Thank you to my PSJA NORTH Coaching Family! No greater feeling than seeing my former players becoming coaches.
Years of Coaching
14 Years.
Life Lessons
The most important metric of a successful coach is the strong bonds built with colleagues and former players along the way. Fostering those relationships through coaching football makes for life lasting friendships.
Biggest Influence
I have worked with many great coaches along the way but was fortunate enough to play and work for Coach Freddy Hernandez. When Coach Hernandez arrived at PSJA NORTH he brought over Coach Louie Navarro (RIP) who became my shot/discus coach. He was another major influence and taught me how to pay attention to detail.
Minority Coaches
I feel like our biggest challenge as minority coaches is a reluctance to broaden our network. Let us not forget that this great game of football is the ultimate uniter of people from all walks of life.
Young Coaches
I would say don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek out those who have experience in our profession. Enjoy building meaningful relationships with the players and no doubt some will return to coach the next generation.
Previous
Next

May Week 1

Ski Gonzalez,
Associate Head Coach/OC, Newman Smith HS

Why Coaching?
I decided to become a coach because some of the greatest role models I have had were teachers and coaches. I wanted the opportunity to have the same impact on future generations.
Years of Coaching
This is my 12th year as a coach.
Life Lessons
I’ve learned numerous life lessons through coaching, but I would have to say that one of the most important is how to handle adversity. Nothing comes easy, and you have to be willing to put the work in. There is no success without failure.
Biggest Influence
Seth Parr has been my biggest influence as a coach. I had the privilege to play under him in high school and he has been a mentor for me in my personal life, as well as my coaching career.
Minority Coaches
One of the biggest hurdles for minority coaches is changing the belief that you have to look like your players in order to effectively coach them and build a solid program. You can relate with your players in a variety of areas, it doesn’t solely depend on your ethnicity.
Young Coaches
I would tell young coaches that they have to be willing to learn throughout their entire career. Networking is a must, but you must always be where your feet are. Embrace the idea of servant leadership and be willing to help grow the next generation of coaches.
Previous
Next

April Week 4

Chris Valdovinos,
DC, Pittsburgh HS

Why Coaching?
I got into coaching because of my own past history and trials with not only sports, but with life in general. I am a firm believer that through the rigor of sports, lives can be molded and transformed for the betterment of the student athletes. Only in sports are their lessons learned through certain hardships that can better equip students for the future.
Years of Coaching
I have been coaching for 14 years.
Life Lessons
The greatest life lesson coaching has taught me is that greatness is only achieved through great perseverance and discipline.
Biggest Influence
The biggest influence as a coach, along with my parents has been Jesus Christ. How Jesus Christ lived His life of servitude leadership influences me to live a life focused on serving others.
Minority Coaches
The biggest challenge for minority coaches in the coaching profession is breaking coaching stereotypes among sports.
Young Coaches
My advice for prospective young coaches is keeping growing your knowledge of all sports and sport ethics. Also there are no short cuts to moving up the coaching ladder, outwork your competition.
Previous
Next

April Week 3

Eric De Los Santos,
DC, Dripping Springs HS

Why Coaching?
I had a great high school experience. I was fortunate to play under a great group of men at Lewisville High School. As a whole, they showed me the power of transformational coaching and the platform it can be for changing young people for the better.
Years of Coaching
22 years.
Life Lessons
Coaching is truly a calling and platform. We all have the opportunity to use it in a positive way.
Biggest Influence
Ronnie Gage. I played for Coach Gage in high school and was fortunate to be hired by him when I graduated college. He’s been a constant mentor in my career. In my opinion, he is the ultimate professional and a model of how Texas High School Football Coaches should represent the profession on and off the field.
Minority Coaches
Although I think our representation has gotten better, I feel like it is still difficult for us to become head coaches.
Young Coaches
Find a mentor coach that you trust and can truly learn from. Don’t look for shortcuts. Do the work and make yourself irreplaceable in your current position. Be authentic. Practice what you preach.
Previous
Next

April Week 2

Josh Hernandez,
DC, Dumas HS

Why Coaching?
I have had a deep love for sports going all the way back to my high school playing days. I had a coach in Tulia, Richard Barnes, who taught me how important coach to player relationships are. His coaching style is what drew me to the profession.
Years of Coaching
This is my 11th year of coaching.
Life Lessons
We are in the kid business. These young athletes and students need great role models in their life each and every day. Each kid's life and day to day situations are different. As coaches, it’s important to connect with each kid and the way you go about doing this changes for each one. Provide a model of consistency each day and be the coach that you looked for growing up.
Biggest Influence
I have been extremely fortunate to work with some wonderful men throughout my coaching career in Dumas. Our head coach, Aaron Dunnam, has taught me the ends and outs of the profession and has helped mold me into the coach I am today. He has been a wonderful example of the type of leader and head coach I strive to be one day.
Minority Coaches
I have been fortunate to watch many minority coaches in the Panhandle succeed at a high level. I have learned that hard work and dedication to our craft will catapult you to many of the goals you have set for yourself. I believe the opportunities for minority coaches in our profession are as good today as they have ever been.
Young Coaches
When you walk into a room, soak up all the information you can and learn from every experience you go through. Be loyal to your program and other coaches that are working day in and day out with you. Be ready to take on any job or task at any time. The quickest way to achieve success in this profession is to grind day in and day out.
Previous
Next

April Week 1

James Soria,
OC, Heights HS

Why Coaching?
Coaches have one of the most powerful platforms in a young person’s life. For our student-athletes, we serve as a mentor, educator, and counselor. Our profession gives individuals endless opportunities to influence, empower, and inspire others.
Years of Coaching
This is my 12th year as a high school coach and my 16th year overall.
Life Lessons
Being resilient in the face of adversity. This profession is marked with unpredictability and so many challenges, setbacks, and unexpected turns. Regardless, excuses are unacceptable. THE STANDARD IS THE STANDARD.
Biggest Influence
My high school Head Coach Anthony Zuccarini, my mentor Van Malone, the two coaches that gave me my first opportunity as a high school coach Robin Kirk and Deron Trevino, and my current boss Stephen Dixon.
Minority Coaches
The biggest challenge facing minority coaches is getting to the next level, whether it’s a high school athletic director or head coach position, or an opportunity in the college or professional ranks. However, associations such as ours provide the guidance and support to empower our coaches so when that opportunity approaches, we are ready.
Young Coaches
1. Be genuine – Don't portray someone you are not. Kids and coaches will see right through it. 2. Develop a plan – What are your short-term goals? What are your long-term goals? 3. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. 4. Be the “head coach” of your position group. 5. Trust the process – Be patient and stay on course. Success doesn’t happen overnight.
Previous
Next

March Week 4

Santos Saucedo,
OC, McCamey HS

Why Coaching?
My coaches throughout my lifetime are still some of the greatest influences in my life. I wanted to be that positive influence to other young adults like they were to me. Coaching allows me to make a positive impact on the lives of our players, helping shape them into confident, disciplined individuals ready to tackle life’s challenges.
Years of Coaching
I’m about to complete year 12, all in McCamey
Life Lessons
The power of resilience. In the face of setbacks, injuries, or losses, it's essential to keep pushing forward. Learn from failures, bounce back stronger. When life hits you in the mouth, you hit back harder.
Biggest Influence
My father. He was tough on me and my siblings. Work for what you want, but make sure you do it the right way. We loved sports, but the greatest thing he wanted from us was just to be hard working, good people. That is one thing that I make sure that I try to instill in our kids.
Minority Coaches
I feel like all coaches deal with the same challenges. You have to be able to build relationships and network. You have to be able to adapt and be flexible. One of the biggest challenges is being able to adjust coaching style, strategies, and methods to meet individual needs.
Young Coaches
When there is stuff to be done, don’t wait to be told to do it. Be the coach that you would want working for you. Loyalty is one of the greatest qualities a coach can have. Coach every rep, good or bad. Communication is one of your best tools.
Previous
Next

March Week 3

Ahmad Zaidan,
DC, SA Clark HS

Why Coaching?
Love of the game. The game has done so much for me as person by the men that coached me. Now, I enjoy using the game to impact lives in a positive way.
Years of Coaching
14 years: Cedar Park, Colleyville Heritage, Clear Springs, Clark
Life Lessons
Patience and Love: Trusting the process and building relationships with those around you.
Biggest Influence
My family- I want to make them all proud. My cousin, Cirilo Ojeda is a HC and we talk frequently.
Minority Coaches
All coaches need to have good mentor coaches to show them how to be professional coaches, which can be more challenging for minorities. The objective of this association is to improve quality and leadership of coaches, which is something I am happy to contribute to.
Young Coaches
Coaching is a commitment and sacrifice, but seeing the development of your athletes and accomplishing team goals is very rewarding. Plus, coaching under the Friday night lights is exciting.
Previous
Next

March Week 2

Scott Veliz,
AC/HFC, Hanks HS

Why Coaching?
I got into coaching because of my deep, fundamental love of football. The game has always meant so much to me. But once I got in, I realized that it was more than just a game. I realized in a hurry that it was about helping young men achieve their goals and helping them become the best version of themselves.
Years of Coaching
I just finished my 19th year.
Life Lessons
Perseverance, patience, and faith. As great as this profession is, there is a lot of adversity and pain that comes with it. You just have to keep plugging away and good things will eventually happen.
Biggest Influence
My brother, Chuck Veliz. One of El Paso, Texas’ winningest high school football coaches.
Minority Coaches
We rarely get opportunities outside of areas that are not predominantly Hispanic. I spent 4 years in the DFW area as the OC at a successful high school and I could not get an interview for a HC position. It seems like we are always having to prove ourselves.
Young Coaches
Work hard, learn from other coaches, BE LOYAL, and most importantly PAY YOUR DUES. Don’t expect to be a coordinator right out of the gate. It is okay to work your way up and perfect your craft.
Previous
Next

March Week 1

Ruben Guerrero, DC, Sunray HS

Why Coaching?
I had some great coaches/teachers when I was in school that inspired me to become one.
Years of Coaching
This is my 36th year.
Life Lessons
Things are not always easy to accomplish. You have to keep working to achieve your goals, although sometimes your goals may change.
Biggest Influence
I have had the opportunity to work under some great head coaches in my career. My first job was under Hal Mumme at Copperas Cove and since then I have tried to take something from each of the head coaches I have worked for and apply it to my coaching philosophy.
Minority Coaches
The biggest challenge for other minority coaches in the profession is to be given the opportunity to earn leadership roles within the athletic program.
Young Coaches
If you want to be a good coach, you have to be a great teacher in the classroom. If you can reach your students in the classroom, then you can reach them on the field, on the court, on the track. Coaching is just an extension of your teaching.
Previous
Next

February Week 4-

Matt Coronado, STC, Irving HS

Why Coaching?
I got into coaching because I enjoy the challenge of changing lives to make sure our athletes are ready for the real world. Being able to impact athletes and teach them life skills that they will need long after they are done playing is the ultimate success.
Years of Coaching
I have been Coaching for 9 years and plan on doing this until I retire!
Life Lessons
The greatest life lesson coaching has taught me is to be patient, resilient, and listen. At the end of the day, it is more than X’s and O’s. We are molding our athletes to face life after the sport and they just need guidance and direction from us.
Biggest Influence
My biggest influence as a coach has to be my grandpa, Cleo Coronado. Till this day, athletes he has coached in their youth still come back to visit him and talk about how if it wasn’t for him, they may not be where they are now. Being able to make an impact that great is what I strive for knowing that I am making a difference.
Minority Coaches
Getting to the top. It’s a process, but once we are there we shine like no other. We got to stay grinding and moving forward. Our opportunities will come, and when they do, we have to take full advantage of them!
Young Coaches
The most important things you can do is learn, ask questions, and soak up as much information as you can. Stay involved and coach your tail off every day. You’re young, use it to your advantage
Previous
Next

February Week 3-

Jacob Vasquez, OC, Concordia Lutheran HS

Why Coaching?
To invest in our young men and women so that they can better the world.
Years of Coaching
17 years.
Life Lessons
It has taught me selflessness. High school is a critical period in a young person’s life. A teacher/coach can make or break a kid. It is my responsibility to learn and grow in order to invest and educate them to the best of my ability. It is not about me.
Biggest Influence
Bobby Lindquist. He coached with Jim Rackley when Rackley was at SA Southwest and was the DC for Chris Soza when Mathis went to the state championship in '99. Bobby passed along the knowledge he obtained from Rackley and Soza to make me a better coach. He mentored me by involving me in every aspect of running a football program. More importantly, he is a Man of God and Integrity. His mentorship helped me understand my relationship with God and to handle adversity and triumph with integrity.
Minority Coaches
I think the biggest challenge we face is the lie that we are not good enough or that we don’t belong. This lie can create a bitterness inside of us that infects our professional and personal lives. Once infected we cannot build the proper genuine relationships it takes to get ahead in this profession. We will always be looking over our shoulder. We must keep our eyes on the target and limit distractions.
Young Coaches
Be a person of integrity.
Previous
Next

February Week 2-

Al Peña, OC, Dripping Springs HS

Why Coaching?
I have always loved the sport of football. My dad was a coach and I was always around the game. I had no idea how much the game would shape me as a man and how much it would impact my life. I knew I wanted to continue in this game and use it as a tool to instill the values it teaches in young student-athletes.
Years of Coaching
17 years.
Life Lessons
I've learned a lot from coaching, but I’d have to say the #1 thing has been hard work. There’s no way around it. We all have to humble ourselves in this profession and embrace the grind. If you want nice things, you have to work for it. If you want to work your way up in this profession you have to be willing to work for it.
Biggest Influence
My dad. He introduced me to this game. Ever since I can remember, my dad has been a coach. As soon as I was old enough, I would go to the fieldhouse with my dad. I still remember being around the guys on the practice field, in the weight room, and in the locker room. I could see the impact my dad had on his players at a young age. When I was finally old enough to play for him, it was an unforgettable experience. He was my dad at home, but he was my coach on the field. He is a big part of the man I am today and why I chose this profession for myself.
Minority Coaches
Personally, I don't feel like we have a unique set of challenges. This profession is challenging for all of us. I think that a big challenge for a lot of us is getting out there. This association has been great to get guys out there in this coaching network. We learn a lot from each other, whether that be Xs and Os or just philosophy. I am extremely proud to be a part of it and I love what it's doing for our profession.
Young Coaches
Grind! This is a tough job, but it is a very rewarding job. No matter what your background is, come into this profession ready to grind. Be ready to start at the bottom and work your way up. Do not come into this profession and expect things to be given to you. You have to earn it! If you feel like you've already earned it and it's still not happening for you, grind harder!
Previous
Next

February Week 1-

Javier Cardenas, OC, Eagle Pass HS

Why Coaching?
Sports (Football) has been a blessing for me since a young age. It opened new paths to personal growth, advancement opportunities and forging life-long relationships. There is no greater satisfaction than empowering others, but most especially, our kids, through coaching.
Years of Coaching
21 years & going strong.
Life Lessons
Beating adversity. It can get tough out there. Getting yourself out of a low point produces an effective, transformational leader. I’ve experienced low points in coaching- but thankfully, right now I am part of something special at Eagle Pass HS.
Biggest Influence
1. My wife Jenny, my kids Josh, Jesarah, and Jadon, and my parents, Tomas & Maria Cardenas. 2. Tom Gonzalez, HFC Eagle Pass HS. 3. Edward Graf, AD Eagle Pass ISD.
Minority Coaches
We have a robust pool of talented people representing the minority coaching community throughout the country. Many of us are first generational coaches, so it’s challenging to break through to the next level. However, we coach with passion and purpose right where we are. Every kid deserves to be well coached.
Young Coaches
1. Learn, learn, learn. 2. Don’t wait to be told what to do or how to do it. 3. Be a loyal assistant- your job is to make the AD/HFC job as smooth as possible. 4. Do your job, but be excellent at it: be uncommon.
Previous
Next