On this episode of East Texas Sports Now, San Augustine Wolves head football coach Tory Barnes joins the show to reflect on the program’s resurgence and preview a promising new season.

The Wolves are coming off a 10-4 season and a trip to the regional finals, a major step forward after the program totaled nine wins over the previous four seasons. Coach Barnes explains how a cohesive senior class, strong leadership, daily preparation, and attention to the small things helped San Augustine turn the corner.

Barnes also looks back on the early stages of his tenure, including the challenge of moving from offensive coordinator to head coach. He discusses the importance of building the right culture, correcting attitudes and mindsets, and patiently laying a foundation after San Augustine’s previous run of deep state-semifinal playoff appearances.

The conversation highlights the growing success across San Augustine athletics, from football’s regional final appearance to the boys basketball team’s state finals run, the girls basketball team’s state semifinal appearance, and success in track and field. Barnes explains why success across an athletic department can build confidence throughout an entire school community.

Looking ahead, San Augustine returns key pieces on both sides of the ball. The Wolves bring back five offensive starters and eight defensive starters, including third-year starting quarterback Max Renfro, 1,500-yard rusher Jeremy Bluford, receiver Adrian Renfro, and a talented linebacker group led by returning all-state defenders. Barnes also discusses the addition of offensive lineman Damarious Ken, who could help anchor the offensive front.

Finally, Coach Barnes previews one of the toughest districts in Texas: a 2A gauntlet featuring Garrison, Hemphill, Joaquin, Shelbyville, Timpson, and San Augustine. With every team capable of making a playoff push, Barnes explains why the Wolves must prepare every week, compete through adversity, and understand that even familiar district opponents may become postseason matchups again.