Growing up in Texas, like many kids, I dreamed of wearing the colors of my high school football team and representing my community on the field. The Dalhart Wolves were nothing extraordinary–we were an average team in a remote corner of the state. But every Friday night, the entire town would rally behind us, supporting the kids and the spirit of our city. I played football on the same field as my father and my childhood heroes who were actually no more than 10 or 12 years my senior. My friends and I had one goal: to wear their jersey numbers and make them proud.
Funny enough, I never really liked football. It was hot, painful, and I got yelled at… a lot! Despite not loving the game and knowing I wasn’t the best player, quitting or giving nothing short of my best never crossed my mind. When it was my turn to wear that jersey, I felt a deep responsibility to represent my school, my community and those who wore #20 (Chris Smith) before me. 
I bring that same sense of responsibility to my role as superintendent. I make it a point to be at work before the first bus leaves at 6 a.m. While I may not be able to fix a stranded bus, I feel a strong responsibility for the kids and employees we serve. Often, I’ll drive by football and band practices early in the morning. I see our kids and coaches showing up with the same level of dedication and responsibility that I felt as a kid. It’s inspiring. These kids take wearing our school colors just as seriously, and I couldn’t be more proud and grateful for them, their coaches, and directors.
As I’ve delved deeper into the concept of character, my definition of responsibility has evolved into “the state of being accountable for something.” I have witnessed our Pirates and Raiders take accountability for their roles on their teams. It’s amazing to watch.
Responsibility is like the unwritten rules we had back then–finish what you start, represent something bigger than yourself and be proud of it. These values still resonate with me today, and they are the values I see in our students every day.
That’s why I encourage you to come to the games, bring your kids and be part of this incredible community. Even now as an adult, there’s nothing quite like standing on the sidelines, feeling the raw energy and emotions of the players and coaches, and hearing the crowd roar in support. It’s a reminder of what makes our community so special, and it takes me back to the deep sense of responsibility I felt when I was young–a responsibility that continues to guide me, and I hope it guides you too.
Games are also a great opportunity to meet new people and reconnect with old friends. You’d be surprised how many familiar faces you’ll see, even if it’s been years since your last game. So, join us at the next football, volleyball, tennis game, or any school event, like theatre or pop shows–not just for the excitement, but for the rewarding sense of being part of something bigger. It’s a chance to share in the pride of our community and support the young people who carry our legacy forward.
Let’s keep showing up, just like we always have and continue to build the strong, supportive community that defines us, the Wylie Way!
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