Coach,
I am so proud of you! What we have accomplished over the first few months of the school year is truly remarkable. Check out these numbers (as of this writing):
- 4,582 Users from 462 districts are registered for The Texas Way
- 38% of school districts in Texas are participating in The Texas Way
- Through 10/1, 93% of all ejections have come from schools that are not engaged with The Texas Way
- Through 10/22, football ejections are down ~34% year-over-year
This is absolutely worth celebrating! YOU are worth celebrating! We are making a real difference in the lives of students, impacting their learning, and protecting the integrity of the game!
As we head into winter sports, I wanted to share a few encouragements that you can pass on to your parents and community members–specifically as we kickoff basketball season.
In addition to the text below (which you can copy/paste into a SportsYou message or email), the team and I have included two videos (one for meetings and one for a video board) that speak directly to parents. You can access the video from your “Assets and Resources” tab on your dashboard.
Let’s go!
Three Reminders to Support The Texas Way
1. Be For Your Team, Not Against the Other
Supporting your team is about bringing out the best in the team, not highlighting the worst in another. Let’s focus on encouraging our players with positivity and enthusiasm, rather than directing energy against the opposing team. Staying FOR our team keeps the spirit high and reinforces a positive atmosphere everyone can enjoy.
2. Stay in Control When You Disagree with a Call
We get it—there are bound to be moments when a call doesn’t go our way. But remember, our reaction in these moments sets an example. Demonstrating self-control when we disagree with a call shows respect for officials and keeps the focus where it belongs—on the game and the athletes. Remember this: you have the right to be angry, but you don’t have the right to be disrespectful.
3. Never Underestimate the Power of Your Influence
Your presence, words, and actions are powerful, especially for the young athletes who look up to you. By modeling respect, control, and enthusiasm, you’re teaching life lessons that go beyond the game. Your influence matters, and when you uphold The Texas Way, you help create a culture of positivity and sportsmanship that makes a difference. On the flip side, if you lose control of your anger, or become unhinged at a competition, you give others permission to do the same.
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,
Mackey