In this THSADA Director’s Cut we feature Dr. Leonard Merrell, a longtime Texas public school superintendent, Senior Consultant with the Center for Effective Schools, and member of the THSADA Superintendent TAAC Advisory Committee.

In our conversation Leonard shares timeless insights on leadership, mentorship, and navigating change in today’s evolving school and athletic environments.

Through decades of experience as a superintendent and community builder, Dr. Merrell reflects on what it takes to identify true leadership, the value of asking the right questions, and how personal growth and professional vision go hand in hand. With warmth, honesty, and wisdom, he reminds us that leadership isn't about knowing everything, it’s about knowing people, embracing change, and staying rooted in purpose.

This Director’s Cut is proudly presented by GameStrat, a trusted sideline replay solution supporting coaches and athletic programs across the country — and a valued partner of THSADA.

Whether you're an aspiring AD, a seasoned administrator, or someone passionate about servant leadership, this conversation is filled with meaningful takeaways for anyone shaping the future of education and athletics in Texas.

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.