Coach,
This week I was at the THSADA’s Fall Forum. An incredible event for ADs (and aspiring ADs) to come learn, grow as an athletic administrator, and most of all, be encouraged by people who know what it is like to walk a mile in your shoes. (If you aren’t involved in THSADA, now is a great time to get involved!)
During a question and answer session, Andre Walker, of Houston ISD, brought up a challenging thought: “What is the next, most important, thing I can do to implement The Texas Way?”
What I love about this question is that it removes the pressure of doing “MORE! MORE! MORE!” and replaces it with what Stan Laing, of Northside ISD, calls your “WIN–What’s Important Now”.
When it comes to changing a culture one of the most important “WINs” you can get is in your daily conversations. Your words will communicate what is most important to you. And while there is always more to be done, sometimes what’s most important is how you talk to the person in front of you, right now.
In this week’s Texas Way Weekly, I am going to share with you three big ideas on how to bring The Texas Way into everyday conversations, so you can start stacking your WINs!
Bringing The Texas Way Into Everyday Conversations
1. Respect of Others: Your Words and Actions Speak the Truth
Respect of Others is the first pillar of The Texas Way. It’s about recognizing the value in everyone, regardless of how they treat you. When it comes to The Texas Way respect is about who you are, not what others do. If we say you respect others, but your actions suggest otherwise…well actions speak louder than words.
In your conversations, respect can be shown in how you listen, how you respond, and how you approach conflict.
•Listen First: Momma always said, “You have two ears and one mouth for a reason.” Be slow to speak (especially in anger) and quick to listen. Whether it’s another coach, student, or family member, make eye contact, ask follow-up questions, and let your body language communicate you are all in.
•Speak with Kindness: Even in disagreements, you can choose to be respectful. Avoid cutting people off or using harsh words. Students will learn how to act based on how you speak to each other, and to them. Remember: You can disagree without being disrespectful.
•Encourage Often: Nothing changes a culture faster than looking to catch people doing things right. When you value others, and show respect, it makes it much easier to encourage them. If you find it hard to respect someone, look for an opportunity to encourage them, and see how your experience changes.
2. Control of Self: Mastering Your Words and Actions
Sports and life are both full of high-pressure moments, and how you respond in those situations reveals a lot about your character. The second pillar of The Texas Way reminds us to control our thoughts, words, and actions, especially when emotions are running high. By practicing self-control, you can turn challenging conversations into opportunities for growth and connection.
•Pause Before Reacting: In tense conversations, it’s easy to let emotions take over. But taking a moment to pause, breathe, and think before responding can prevent misunderstandings and hurt feelings. Ask yourself, “How can I respond in a way that models how I want them to respond?”
•Use Words to Heal, Not Hurt: We’ve all said things we regret in the heat of the moment. Practice using your words to resolve conflicts rather than escalate them. Instead of accusing, focus on finding solutions. This is especially important when dealing with difficult conversations.
•Stay Calm Under Pressure: When you stay calm, it sets the tone for everyone else. Model the composure you want to see in your athletes and coaches, and you’ll often find that conflicts resolve faster and more peacefully.
3. Spirit of Competition: Excellence in Every Interaction
The third pillar of The Texas Way, Spirit of Competition, is about pushing ourselves to be our best—not just on the field, but in life. In everyday conversations, this means bringing your best attitude, effort, and integrity, whether you’re solving a problem, leading a team, or simply having a conversation with a student-athlete.
•Give Your Best Effort: In every conversation, bring your full attention and focus. Strive to be fully present. Put your phone down. Take the extra time in practice. This shows the other person that they matter, and it allows you to connect on a deeper level.
•Encourage Growth: The Spirit of Competition doesn’t just care about winning; it cares about winning the right way, and helping students grow as young men and women. Your conversations in the locker room or practice field can do the same thing. Offer constructive feedback, celebrate progress, and remind students that success is about effort, not perfection.
•Keep Integrity at the Forefront: Competition can bring out the best in us, but only when it’s driven by integrity. In conversations, be honest, fair, and transparent. When people know they can trust your word, it strengthens relationships and fosters deeper connections.
The three pillars of The Texas Way are not just ideals for playing with good sportsmanship—they’re a game plan for living a life of purpose, connection, and integrity. When we bring these values into our daily conversations, we set the stage for stronger relationships, better understanding, and a more positive community.
Thank you for being a part of this. Thank you for your work. If I can help you or your district in any way, or you want to tell your story, email me at Mackey@2words.tv.
Until next week: This work isn’t complicated…it’s as simple as two words: go find the NEXT W.I.N.!
Mackey