In this episode of the THSADA Director’s Cut powered by KALWALL we sit down with Rodney Chant, Executive Director of Athletics for San Angelo ISD and a THSADA Hall of Honor inductee, to explore the leadership lessons learned across districts big and small.

Rodney reflects on his journey from multi-high school districts like Fort Bend and Pasadena to the tight-knit community of San Angelo, where relationships run deep and Friday night lights still shut down the town.

This candid conversation covers:

• The transition from metro to rural athletics
• Advice for young coaches starting their careers
• How to draw the line between leadership and friendship
• The 40+ item checklist he uses to set coaches up for success
• Why all sports deserve equal support and visibility

Whether you're a new coach, a seasoned AD, or simply passionate about Texas high school athletics, this episode offers grounded insights from a leader who’s still doing the work—and doing it well.

👉 Watch now and hear why experience, empathy, and pacing yourself are keys to long-term success in athletic leadership.

In this episode of the THSADA Director’s Cut, we take you inside the 2025 Fall Forum, hosted at Northside ISD, where athletic leaders from across Texas gathered for two days of connection, reflection, and professional growth.

From an energizing kickoff message by Dr. Charles Breithaupt to a packed slate of workshop sessions, this year’s Forum tackled the most pressing topics facing athletic administrators today.

These Included:

• How to Scale Your Impact with AI, Content and Branding
• ALL Duties as Assigned
• Playing Smarter – Enhancing Athletic Spaces with Innovation and Safety
• Whistles and Wisdom
• Hot Topics
• UIL Updates

Whether you're leading a large district or just getting started in athletic administration, this recap delivers practical takeaways on leadership, collaboration, and creating a culture of excellence.

Special thanks to our episode sponsor, Hometown your trusted partner in growing school revenue through powerful websites, ticketing, and fundraising tools that bring your community together for unforgettable hometown experiences.

In this episode of the THSADA Director’s Cut, we sit down with Mike Buddie, Director of Athletics at TCU and former Major League Baseball pitcher.

From his playing days in the Yankees organization to leadership roles at Furman and Army West Point, Buddie brings a seasoned, real-world perspective to the challenges facing athletic administrators today.

He shares how his leadership philosophy was shaped by working under a four-star general, why understanding the difference between what’s critical and what’s urgent is essential, and how he intentionally balances work and family in a 24/7 profession.

Whether you’re an aspiring leader or a veteran AD navigating a new era of expectations, this conversation offers practical insight on culture, communication, and keeping the main thing the main thing.

Special thanks to our episode sponsor, QHF Sports, a Texas-based leader in sports floor maintenance and installation. From repairs and refinishing to permanent and portable basketball and volleyball courts, QHF helps schools deliver safe, professional-grade playing surfaces across the state. Learn more at qhfsports.com.