2026 State Conference Special

2026 State Conference Special

The 2026 THSADA State Conference was a showcase of leadership, collaboration, and innovation, bringing together athletic administrators from across our state for the largest conference in THSADA history. In this special Director’s Cut episode, we take a look back at the conversations, insights, and ideas that made this year’s event such a valuable experience for attendees. This conference recap brings together some of the most impactful moments captured throughout the event. You’ll hear from experienced athletic leaders as they discuss building sustainable budgets, creating stronger support systems for athletic trainers, and developing leadership cultures through initiatives like The Texas Way. Speakers also share valuable perspectives on communication, relationship-building, and navigating transitions into new leadership roles. The episode highlights real-world examples of innovation and problem-solving, reinforcing the importance of adaptability, strategic thinking, and continuous learning in athletic administration. Special thanks to our episode sponsor, Game One [https://www.game-one.com/], and to the presenters, attendees, partners, and THSADA members who helped make this year’s conference a tremendous success! Be sure to explore the full conference video library now available online at thsada.com [https://www.thsada.com/] and continue learning from the outstanding sessions featured throughout the event. Here’s to building on the momentum and impact of another unforgettable State Conference.

Key THSADA Initiatives and State Conference Preview

In this Director’s Cut episode, THSADA Assistant Executive Director Jody Hormann shares how the association continues to evolve to better serve athletic administrators across Texas through innovative programming, member-driven initiatives, and a renewed focus on promoting education-based athletics. Drawing from 12 years of experience as an Athletic Director, Hormann offers insight into the collaborative efforts behind THSADA’s newest initiatives and the intentional work being done to provide meaningful resources for members at every stage of their career.  In this episode, she discusses: * The vision behind the Educate Excel Play campaign * How collaboration between statewide organizations is helping tell a stronger story about public school athletics and student opportunities * Why member feedback plays a critical role in shaping THSADA programming, professional development, and conference experiences * What attendees can expect at the 2026 THSADA State Conference These insights provide a closer look at how THSADA is investing in its membership while strengthening the future of athletic administration through education and shared leadership. 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.

Turning Belief Into Impact: How One Message Is Reaching Athletes Across the Country

In this THSADA Director’s Cut Hall of Honor Series episode, Stephen Mackey of 2Words shares the mindset, discipline, and mission behind his work impacting coaches and student-athletes across Texas and the nation. Grounded in the belief that athletics is a powerful vehicle for life transformation, Mackey has built his philosophy around developing championship character, equipping coaches with purpose-driven tools, and helping programs create lasting cultural impact. Whether through The Texas Way or his national platform, his message remains consistent: the work is hard, but it matters because kids are worth it. In this episode, he discusses: * What it takes to build discipline and develop your voice through consistent, intentional practice * Why enthusiastic belief from coaches is a catalyst for unlocking potential in student-athletes * How programs like The Texas Way are creating measurable cultural change across schools and communities * Why storytelling and community engagement are essential to sustaining and growing athletic programs These insights offer valuable perspective for athletic administrators and coaches looking to lead with purpose, overcome challenges, and create environments that go beyond the game to shape who students become. 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.

Proven Leadership Strategies: Mentorship, Honest Conversations & Growth with Jennifer Frazier - McKinney ISD

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 growth * How “little conversations” can strengthen relationships and prevent larger leadership breakdowns * Why listening, discernment, and timing are essential in today’s educational landscape These 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.

Hall of Honor Series: Lynn Pool on Family-First Culture, Mentorship & Building a Legacy

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 time * Why “coaching coaches” is essential to long-term success * How strong relationships and solution-based leadership drive progress, even with limited resources These 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!