Huge Turnout
- At the 93rd Annual THSCA (Texas High School Coaches Association) Coaching School & Convention, more than 17,000 coaches attended.
- This shows how important and influential this convention is for high school coaching in Texas.
Key Topics Covered
- Coaches attended sessions covering mental training, strength & conditioning, offensive and defensive drills, and more.
- These sessions help coaches at all levels improve the way they train players, not just in baseball skills but in athlete development more broadly.
- This shows how important and influential this convention is for high school coaching in Texas.
UIL Playoff Format Change
- One major discussion point: the UIL’s new playoff format for team sports (including baseball), which divides playoff teams into two divisions based on school attendance.
- This new format is designed to promote competitive equity by allowing schools of different sizes to compete more fairly.
- While generally well-received, there are ongoing adjustments and some concerns about how to best implement it (e.g., predetermined semifinal sites).
Health & Safety Focus
- Heat safety was a concern: with high temperatures being a reality in Texas, convention sessions emphasized emergency measures for heat-related illnesses and better coach training around heat risks.
- This is especially relevant for high school sports, where coaches play a key role in monitoring athlete health during practices and games.
Baseball Training Innovations
- Companies like Field Sports Training (FST) showcased new baseball training tools and methods.
- Demonstrations included advanced training equipment (such as mats for catchers), and the convention provided a space for hands-on, interactive learning.
- MLB-level personnel also made appearances: for example, Jose Trevino (MLB catcher) and other coaches/trainers participated in FST’s demonstrations.
Networking & Professional Development
- Beyond training and clinics, the convention served as a major networking hub: coaches across Texas came together to discuss best practices, share experiences, and form connections.
- There were also opportunities for job placement (“on-site job room”) and recognition (awards, banquets) as part of the broader THSCA event.
