Texas HS Football Podcast with Taylor Arenz

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This week, Texas high school football is officially back! All the teams have hit the field for practices, and the excitement is building for the season.

Host Taylor Arenz talks with three players who will play big roles on their teams this season. First up, she chats with Cobey Sellers, Shadow Creek's five-star cornerback who is a Texas A&M commit. Cobey tells Taylor about his offseason and shares some great advice for younger Texas high school football athletes.

Next is another Texas A&M commit, Cy-Fair High School's four-star defensive lineman, Landon Rink. Landon broke a record this offseason and talks all about that day, this upcoming season, and how he made the decision to go to Texas A&M.

Finally, Taylor chats with Hutto High School's wide receiver, Braeton Anderson. Braeton is excited about how the Hippos are looking this season and offers some great advice for young athletes.

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Football is back! This week the first group of Texas High School football teams hit the field for practice to kick off the 2024 season! The excitement is brewing and Host Taylor Arenz caught up with some coaches and an athlete to hear all about their off season and thoughts on the new season!

First up, is Trinity Leadership School Head Coach Derrick Adams.  Coach Adams fills Taylor in on the growing program and how they prepared for the upcoming season.

Then, Taylor had a chance to chat with Frost HS Athletic Director and Head Coach Phillip Gibson.  Coach Gibson has really turned around his program and he tells Taylor all about how his Polar Bears are ready to make a real statement this season! 

Last up, is one of the highest ranked players in Texas! Ball HS Five Star S Jonah Williams talks to Taylor about his advice to younger athletes, his recruitment and so much more! You will really enjoy getting to know Jonah.

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This week Host Taylor Arenz catches up with Humble HS Head Coach Robert Murphy. Coach Murphy fills Taylor in on the Wildcats off season and talks how he bleeds purple and his the Wildcat pride! 

Then Taylor learns all about The Boys Ranch football program. The Boys Ranch is the Last Chance U of Texas HS football! Lead by Head Coach Louise Kelley llll, Coach Kelley tells Taylor all about his unique program and how their move to D1 6 Man Football is going to benefit them greatly this season! 

Finally, Taylor get to talk with 4 Star DL Smith Orogbo from Alief Hasting HS.  Smith is a University of Texas commit and you will love getting to know him so you can follow his career his final TXHSFB season and into college!

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In this podcast episode, Taylor Arenz interviews Earl Westbrooks, the new head coach at Sharpstown High School.

Coach Westbrooks shares his journey from being a paraprofessional to head coach, emphasizing the importance of creating strong habits and routines for his players. He discusses the challenges and excitement of rebuilding the Sharpstown football program, focusing on the key elements of punctuality, effort, and attitude.

Westbrooks details the summer training regimen, including strength conditioning and 7-on-7 games, to prepare the team for the upcoming season. He highlights the importance of team bonding and community involvement, sharing how the team has actively participated in local events and helping the community.

Please tune in to hear Coach Westbrooks' vision for Sharpstown football and how he's fostering a culture of discipline, hard work, and unity. Get inspired by his passion and dedication to building a successful and cohesive team.

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In this podcast episode, Taylor Arenz interviews North Shore High School linebacker and LSU commit Charles Ross, and Mansfield Summit defensive lineman and University of Houston commit Travis Buhake.

Charles Ross shares his rigorous summer training schedule and the motivation gained from last season's near miss. He discusses his commitment to LSU, the life lessons he's learned, and his goals for the upcoming senior season, including aiming for the Defensive Player of the Year title. Ross also offers valuable advice for younger athletes starting their high school football careers.

Travis Buhake talks about his daily summer routine, balancing football with his love for track and field, and his excitement over committing to U of H. He reflects on the importance of patience and focusing on self-improvement. Buhake also shares his goals for the season and the lessons he hopes to pass on to younger players, emphasizing the importance of being a good leader.

Tune in to get insights into how these athletes prepare for their senior seasons, their college plans, and the personal stories that drive them. Enjoy learning more about these dedicated players and what they bring to Texas high school football.

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In this podcast episode, Taylor Arenz interviews Andrew Marsh, a four-star wide receiver from Katy Jordan, and Ryan Fodje, an offensive lineman from Bridgeland committed to Oklahoma.

Andrew Marsh discusses his rigorous summer training schedule, balancing schoolwork with football practice, and his recruitment journey. He plans to announce his college decision on Veterans Day to honor his late father. Marsh reflects on his role as a leader and hopes to inspire younger athletes by setting a good example both on and off the field.

Ryan Fodje shares his experience of committing to Oklahoma, being his first and most cherished offer. He discusses his summer routine and the preparations for his senior year. Fodje emphasizes the importance of trusting the process and hopes to be a role model for younger athletes, encouraging them to work hard and develop over time.

Tune in to hear Andrew and Ryan's insights, their dedication to football, and what lies ahead for these promising players in the upcoming season. Enjoy getting to know these talented athletes and their inspiring journeys.

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n this podcast episode, Taylor Arenz interviews recently retired Coach Kerry Therwhanger and new head coach Patrick Gandy from the Timpson Bears, who clinched their first-ever state championship this past season.

Coach Therwhanger reflects on his 38-year coaching career and the joy of winning a state title before retirement. He discusses the team's phenomenal defense and Terry Bussey's incredible performance. Coach Therwhanger also shares his personal plans for retirement, including spending time with his grandkids and improving his golf game.

Coach Gandy shares his smooth transition to head coach, thanks to Therwhanger's guidance. He discusses the team’s intensive summer workouts and the focus on maintaining their championship form. Gandy highlights the importance of filling the shoes of the exceptional senior class, known for their stellar 58-3 football record and success in multiple sports.

Tune in to this episode for an inside look at the Timpson Bears' championship journey and future plans under new leadership. Hear from the coaches who played pivotal roles in their success and learn what lies ahead for this dedicated team.

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In this podcast episode, Taylor Arenz interviews Jamie Driskell, Athletic Director and Head Coach of the Malakoff Tigers, the reigning state champions.

Head Coach Jamie Driskell shares the excitement of winning the state championship and the community's celebrations, including parades and fireworks. He also discusses the move to a new high school building, and the challenges that come with it.

They explore the team's summer schedule, “Sweet Sixteens,” which encourages players to stay fit with rewards like T-shirts. The conversation also touches on returning key players and addressing vital positions for the upcoming season.

Coach Driskell reflects on the memorable state championship game against Franklin and his own coaching superstitions. 

Join this episode to get an inside look at the Malakoff Tigers' journey and what to expect for the new season. Tune in for Coach Driskell's insights and passion for high school football.

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In this podcast episode, Taylor Arenz interviews Dr. Rod Jay Turner Jr., a primary care and sports medicine specialist, to explore the intersection of healthcare and sports.

Dr. Turner shares his journey, from obtaining a bachelor's in molecular and cellular biology from Vanderbilt University to earning a master's and medical degree from UTHealth Houston. With a rich background of research and residency at UTHealth Houston, Dr. Turner offers a unique perspective on sports medicine.

They discuss Dr. Turner's role as the team physician for major sports teams including the Houston Rockets, Houston Dynamo, and St. Thomas University, and delve into the importance of tailored treatment plans for sports-related injuries.

The conversation highlights how Dr. Turner balances his clinical commitments with his responsibilities as an assistant professor in the Department of Family and Community Medicine at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston.

Dr. Turner also illuminates the latest advancements in sports medicine, preventive measures for athletes of all ages, and a holistic approach to sports-related healthcare. He emphasizes the crucial role of education and continuous learning in effectively managing and treating sports injuries.

Tune in to this episode to gain insights into the dynamic field of sports medicine and the passion driving healthcare professionals dedicated to the well-being of athletes.

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In this podcast episode, Taylor Arenz sits down with Rod McLain, the President of the Texas Association of Sports Officials (TASO), to delve into the challenging yet rewarding world of high school football officiating in Texas. McLain shares his journey, starting from being inspired by his barber to becoming an official for over 36 years. They discuss the structure of officiating in Texas with 23 chapters across the state, each responsible for different schools and games.

McLain also talks about the rigorous year-round training for officials, which includes virtual sessions, chapter meetings, and an annual conference to stay updated on rule changes and best practices. Highlighting the shortage of officials due to new school constructions, McLain explains the ongoing efforts to recruit and train new members to meet the growing demand.

The conversation also touches on the use of instant replay in Texas high school football, currently only implemented in state championship games. McLain acknowledges the interest in expanding its use but notes the technological challenges involved. Lastly, they cover the roles and responsibilities of different official positions during games and the non-seniority-based system for assigning these roles, emphasizing preparation and dedication over tenure.

Tune in to this insightful episode to better understand the essential role officiating plays in Texas high school football and the passion driving those who ensure the games run smoothly.