High School Sports Saturday with Tate Mathews

Welcome to another episode of High School Sports Saturday with Tate Mathews. In this exciting edition, the show broadcasts live from the BCAT Ladies Hoops Fest at Lebanon High School, featuring a special guest segment with Coach Mark Vaughn, the head women's basketball coach at Cumberland University. Coach Vaughn joins the program to dive into the thriving culture of Tennessee sports, sharing his personal coaching journey and celebrating the massive evolution of the women's game. The conversation highlights two major developments currently shaping local sports. First, they discuss the implementation of the high school shot clock in girls' basketball, with Coach Vaughn breaking down how the rule elevates late-game strategy, improves player basketball IQ, and seamlessly prepares athletes for the collegiate level. Second, they shine a spotlight on exceptional local talent and thriving programs within Wilson County and the Mid-State area, identifying elite players who are turning the heads of college scouts and showcasing why the region has become a premier destination for basketball.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this energetic sports segment broadcast live from the B-Cat Lady Hoops Fest at Lebanon High School, the host sits down with Mark Vaughn, the Head Women's Basketball Coach for Cumberland University. As Coach Vaughn prepares to enter his third year leading the Phoenix, he shares a mix of personal milestones and deep insights into his program's culture and future.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This lively broadcast from the B-Cat Hoopfest features a dynamic and candid conversation with Head Women's Basketball Coach Cory Barrett of Lebanon High School and Coach Wes Shappley of Bartlett High School. The coaches dive deep into the evolution of high school women's basketball, and the business of running a program.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate talks with Corey Barrett, head coach of the Lebanon High School Devilettes basketball team. Broadcasting from a massive girls' basketball tournament hosted at the school, Coach Barrett and the host discuss the logistics of running an event with over 100 teams, the highly anticipated introduction of the shot clock to Tennessee high school basketball, and the elite talent on display on the court. Barrett also highlights the impressive strength of Wilson County's local basketball programs and the significant economic boost the tournament brings to the surrounding community.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined with BCAT Director Bruce Slatten, who discusses the remarkable evolution and scale of girls' high school basketball in Tennessee. Coach Slaton highlights the massive growth in the athleticism, strength, and overall quality of the women's game, crediting advanced weight training and excellent coaching throughout the state for closing regional competitive gaps. The tournament serves as a massive collegiate recruiting hub, drawing nearly 80 college scouts over the weekend and culminating in a staggering 510 total games played across the boys' and girls' events to give young athletes maximum exposure right before the NCAA dead period.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on High School Sports Saturday, Tate Mathews takes the show on the road, broadcasting live from the TOA Sports Performance Center in Franklin for the massive BCAT Hoops Fest! With over 150 teams packed into the facility, Tate sits down with some of the best basketball minds in the region to discuss summer development, the evolving landscape of college recruiting, and the highly anticipated arrival of the shot clock in Tennessee high school hoops. First, Coach Bruce Slatten the Executive Director, BCAT breaks down the explosive growth of the Hoops Fest, the importance of getting players exposure across all collegiate levels, and the association's successful push to finally implement the shot clock statewide. Then, Coach Jason Welch the Head Coach of the Tullahoma Wildcats, provides a look into the Tullahoma program, the grind of summer ball, and how playing multiple games in a single day builds necessary team chemistry and competitive endurance for the winter. Coach Andy Blackston of the Brentwood Academy Eagles) shares his philosophy on building a Next, winning culture, defending the standard at a powerhouse program, and his thoughts on how the new 35-second shot clock will change late-game strategies. The show wraps with Coach Eric Evans II of the Cumberland University Phoenix providing a deep dive into the college side of the game. Coach Evans discusses the relentless recruiting trail, the reality of navigating the transfer portal, and building a gritty, defensive-minded NAIA program at Cumberland.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate welcomes in Coach Eric Evans II, who is entering his fourth year at the helm of the Cumberland University Men's Basketball program. Coach Evans opens up about the massive shift he has led at Cumberland—moving away from a heavy reliance on two-year transfers and focus instead on building a long-term culture from the freshman class on up. He breaks down what he and his staff look for when scouting high school talent, emphasizing that a player's character, behavior as a teammate, and coachability matter just as much as their point production. Tate and Coach Evans also dive into the ultra-competitive landscape of their NAIA conference, which Evans describes as a "low-major Division I league" featuring perennial powerhouses like Free Hardeman and Georgetown.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate welcomes in Coach Andy Blackston, head coach of the Brentwood Academy Eagles, fresh off back-to-back deep postseason runs. Coach Blackston gives us an inside look at what it takes to build and maintain a championship-caliber team. From developing players who truly want to win to the meticulous process of instilling a competitive mindset, this conversation offers invaluable insights for players and coaches alike. They also discuss the unique challenges of playing in DII-AA, the recent implementation of the TSSAA shot clock, and the reality of the college basketball recruiting process.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate sits down with Tullahoma Wildcats Head Basketball Coach Jason Welch to break down the grind of the high school summer basketball circuit. With over 80 college coaches walking the gym, they discuss the massive exposure the BCAT Hoopsfest provides and what it takes for players to push through the final days of the summer evaluation period. Coach Welch, bringing 33 years of coaching experience to the mic, also shares his candid thoughts on the TSSAA Board of Control's recent approval of the shot clock. Tate and Jason dive into how the shot clock will eliminate late-game "hack-fests," speed up the pace of play, and the logistical and financial hurdles schools will face in finding qualified operators. Plus, a look back at Tullahoma's incredible recent success, including their 28-5 and 32-5 seasons.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate sits down with Coach Bruce Slatten, Executive Director of the Basketball Coaches Association of Tennessee (BCAT), to discuss the massive evolution of the Hoopsfest event—growing from 54 teams in 2019 to an incredible 158 teams today. They dive into the importance of the NCAA live period, what it means for high school athletes to play in front of over 70 college programs, and the hard realities of college recruiting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to another episode of High School Sports Saturday Host Tate Mathews opens the show by honoring the newly announced All-Midstate boys' soccer and track and field teams, highlighting exceptional performances from state champions like Station Camp's soccer squad and multi-event standout track stars from Pearl-Cohn and Brentwood. In addition to celebrating student-athletes, the segment breaks down major updates from the local baseball coaching carousel, announcing that Mike McClorie is taking over at Oakland and Wayne Kendrick is heading to Riverdale, while openings at Independence and Centennial remain vacant. The episode features an impressive lineup of guest interviews, starting with newly appointed Smyrna head football coach Mark Williams, who discusses succeeding his brother Matt and keeping program continuity by retaining Ben Coon as offensive coordinator. Williamson County Schools District Athletic Director Patrick Whitlock then drops by to preview the highly anticipated 12th annual WILLCOs at The Factory in Franklin, while also touching on major upcoming TSSAA proposals regarding state basketball tournament seeding and a potential shot clock. Finally, Tom Kreager of The Tennessean wraps up the guest segments by previewing the Middle Tennessee Sports Awards at the Music City Center and breaking news on Eagleville High School breaking ground on its new multi-sport synthetic turf facilities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Tom Kreager of the Tennessean for their weekly Saturday morning high school sports roundup. Brought to you by Warner Athletic—who recently broke ground on Eagleville's new turf field for 2026—the duo dives straight into the latest news and updates across the local sports scene.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by District Athletic Director Coach Patrick Whitlock to discuss the upcoming 12th annual Wilcos, a major awards event for high school athletes in the district.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Mark Williams, the newly appointed head football coach of the Smyrna Bulldogs. In this interview, Coach Williams discusses taking over the program from his brother and outlines his vision for the team's future. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to another episode of High School Sports Saturday With Tate Mathews! In this edition, Tate wraps up the two-week Spring Fling event by celebrating the newly crowned state champions from the mid-state region. The show features a stellar lineup of guest interviews, including state championship soccer coach Jeremy Cook of the Station Camp Bison, state championship lacrosse coach Tom Petitt of the Nolensville Knights, and a regular weekly visit with Tom Kreager of The Tennessean. Throughout the episode, Tate also highlights essential high school football coaching changes and updates listeners on recent retirement news within the local sports community. The program includes detailed segments reviewing team accomplishments across baseball, softball, girls' flag football, boys' and girls' lacrosse, soccer, track and field, and tennis. Notably, Tate emphasizes the exceptional dominance of mid-state teams, celebrating achievements like Christ Presbyterian Academy's 24-game winning streak in baseball, and multiple state titles brought home by schools like Eagleville, Community, and Stewarts Creek. Guest coach Jeremy Cook shares an inspiring reflection on his team's back-to-back state soccer championships, overcoming roster adversity and injuries, and touches upon his recent personal milestone of donating a kidney to fellow coach Ronnie MacMahon. Later, coach Tom Petitt details the Nolensville Knights' impressive lacrosse season, lauded for their star-studded roster and defensive prowess, which led them to a 17-8 victory over Brentwood in the state final. Sponsored by local staples such as Jimmy Kelly’s Steakhouse, the Tennessee Athletic Coaches Association (TACA), and Freedom Boat Club of Tennessee, the broadcast seamlessly weaves sports reporting with community engagement. Listeners are treated to updates on local business offerings, from premium dining experiences to athletic training opportunities like the D1 Football Academy. The episode concludes with Tom Kreager providing additional insights into the challenges and triumphs of the Spring Fling week, including how weather disruptions forced logistical adaptations, before looking ahead to the upcoming 2026 football season and highlighting key coaching retirements.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Tom Kreager from The Tennessean to reflect on the recent Spring Fling high school sports tournament and discuss major football and baseball coaching shakeups across Middle Tennessee. Kreager shares his key takeaway from the rain-delayed tournament, emphasizing the critical need for more turf softball fields in Rutherford County to help manage tight game schedules during severe weather. The conversation shifts to a series of significant football coaching changes, including Mark Williams taking over for Matt Williams at Smyrna, Josh Kineffl stepping in at Wilson Central, and the search for a new head coach at Giles County following David O'Connor's departure to Alabama. Finally, they honor the storied careers of legendary baseball coaches Mack Hawks of Oakland and Barry Messer of Riverdale following their recent retirement announcements.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Nolensville Knights lacrosse head coach Tom Pettit to celebrate the team's back-to-back state championship victories. During the conversation, Coach Pettit discusses the significant impact of the team's 14 seniors, highlighting key players like all-state defensive middie Landon Bowman, standout attacker Aaron Sylvester, and star goalie Braden Olson, who recently set a state record for saves. He shares his insights on the growth of lacrosse as a fast-paced and inclusive sport, explains his approach to identifying naturally talented goalies, and expresses pride in his graduating players who are advancing to play at the collegiate level.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Coach Jeremy Cooke of the Station Camp Bisons to discuss the team's incredible journey to becoming back-to-back state soccer champions. Despite facing massive adversity throughout the season—including numerous player injuries and Coach Cooke himself undergoing surgery to donate a kidney to fellow Coach Ronnie MacMahan just before the post-season—the team rallied to win 14 of their last 15 games. Coach Cooke reflects on how his years of experience have taught him to play the "long game" rather than focus on immediate early-season results, which proved vital in guiding this unique and special group of seniors to victory. He also shares a positive update on both his and Coach Mac's recoveries, noting that while he still has minor limitations this summer, both are healing wonderfully.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to another episode of High School Sports Saturday with Tate Mathews! This episode celebrates the conclusion of the high school athletic season and the spectacular results of the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA) Spring Fling championships. Tate welcomes head coach Larry Nesbitt from the Christ Presbyterian Academy (CPA) Lions baseball team to discuss their remarkable run to a state championship, capped off by a 24-game winning streak. Coach Nesbitt praises the incredible unity and selflessness of his senior-led squad and particularly highlights the standout hitting performance of sophomore Wright Martin and the depth of their top-tier pitching rotation in achieving a legendary season. The second half of the show features Patrick Whitlock, the Williamson County Schools District Athletic Director, and Tom Kreager from The Tennessean. Whitlock shares his pride in WCS securing eight total state championships during Spring Fling across various sports, describing the unprecedented achievement as an absolute testament to the dedication of the county's student-athletes and coaching staff. Tom Kreager joins the program to share the top storylines of the postseason, shining a spotlight on Station Camp's emotional and inspiring back-to-back state soccer title. They also break down the standout performances of individual athletes like Cameron High from Brentwood High School, who set a state hurdles record, and discuss how mid-state sports programs completely dominated the championship landscape.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Tom Kreager, and the duo dives into an extensive recap of the high school sports landscape following the conclusion of Spring Fling. They discuss several state championship victories across Middle Tennessee, highlighting Station Camp’s back-to-back soccer championship over South Doyle—including the emotional story of coach Jeremy Cook donating a kidney—as well as Ravenwood’s historic soccer title win over Beardan in penalty kicks. The conversation expands to celebrate standout team performances from Brentwood boys' track and Pearl-Cohn track and field, alongside an appreciation for CPA's dominant baseball run. After a quick promotional segment for the D1 Football Academy in Cool Springs, they shift to naming their top individual performers of the tournament: Tate selects three-time state champion sprinter China Harris Rucker, while Tom highlights Ravenwood goalkeeper Connor Shave for his clutch penalty kick saves. Finally, Tom previews the upcoming sports calendar, detailing the conclusion of the softball tournament, the launch of a position-by-position football preview series starting with the area's top quarterbacks, and the ongoing preparations for the high school Sports Awards on June 9th.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Patrick Whitlock, a school district athletic director, to recap an unprecedented and unparalleled run of success for Williamson County Schools at Spring Fling. The duo highlights numerous state championship victories across multiple sports, detailing Brentwood High's sweep in boys and girls tennis, Nolensville's wire-to-wire run in boys lacrosse, and Ravenwood's dramatic penalty-kick upset over nationally ranked Bearden in boys soccer. They also celebrate dominant track and field performances, including a state-record hurdle time by Brentwood's Cameron High, stellar distance running from Lauren Banovac, and a dual championship finish for independent senior Asher Oats. The conversation wraps up with a discussion on the logistical challenges of navigating weather delays, the growing prominence of girls lacrosse and flag football, a legendary comeback win by coach Rodriguez's squad, and a proud presentation of the county's academic and athletic accolades ahead of the upcoming Wilco Awards.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Christ Presbyterian Academy (CPA) baseball head coach Larry Nesbitt to discuss the team's incredible run to a state championship. Nesbitt reflects on the significance of ending the season on a 24-game winning streak and praises the unselfishness, tight-knit culture, and leadership of his nine seniors, noteably short stop Burton Moore. He highlights the remarkable depth of his pitching staff—which includes standouts like Beau Holloway, Eli Dickey, and Weston Williford—and commends the postseason performances of several underclassmen, including a standout four-for-four game from sophomore Wright Martin. The conversation wraps up with Nesbitt expressing the immense joy he felt watching the team celebrate their final out and looking ahead to his upcoming weekend plans coaching 13-year-old baseball.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to another episode of High School Sports Saturday with Tate Mathews! Today’s show delivers a comprehensive look across Middle Tennessee as regional play winds down and teams punch their tickets to the state tournament. Tate kicks things off with Cascade Champions baseball coach Travis Sheffield, celebrating their dramatic, grueling 11-inning victory over Huntingdon. Coach Sheffield breaks down his pitching staff’s historic showing, anchored by ace Jaden Hathcock's brilliant 8-inning no-hitter, and discusses managing graduation schedules alongside player injuries ahead of their high-stakes run in Murfreesboro. Next, Franklin Admirals soccer coach Mike Burgoyne drops by to talk about their balanced squad's upcoming sectional showdown against the physical Beach Buccaneers. With his team riding high on regional clean sheets, Coach Burgoyne highlights stellar performances from goalkeeper Sawyer Skelton, breaks down the squad's early morning curfew plans, and reflects on his emotional decision to step down from his legendary coaching tenure at the end of this season. Finally, Tate is joined by local sports expert Tom Kreager for a rapid-fire rundown of the inaugural Class AA Girls' Flag Football and Lacrosse State Championships. Tom recaps Mount Juliet and Ravenwood's unforgettable flag football battle, praises Nolensville and Page's stellar runs on the lacrosse field, and looks ahead to a jam-packed schedule of sectional baseball and softball action.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Tom Kreager as they recap the exciting start to the state championships. They discuss the impressive performance of Mount Juliet and Ravenwood in girls' flag football, highlighting a thrilling game that came down to a big catch by Avery Brown. Tom shares his thoughts on the exceptional athleticism on display and notes the presence of several football players supporting the teams. Turning to lacrosse, they celebrate the dominance of Williamson County teams, with multiple state championships won. Tom specifically mentions Nolensville's strong performance in the double-A division and previews upcoming matchups. They emphasize the growing popularity and success of lacrosse as a sanctioned sport. The conversation then shifts to baseball and softball, with Tom providing updates on recent games, noting surprising outcomes and standout performances by teams like Siegel and Lincoln County. Finally, they address the structural changes to the state track meet, acknowledging the logistical challenges and mixed reactions from fans and families.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Franklin Admirals soccer coach Mike Burgoyne ahead of a critical sectional match against the Beach Buccaneers. Celebrating the Admirals' balanced play and recent postseason shutouts against Shelbyville and Ravenwood, Burgoyne gives early scouting reports on Beach's physical, high-scoring roster. He shines a spotlight on his own key players, including star goalkeeper Sawyer Skelton—who boasts 10 clean sheets this season—and resilient forward Caleb Moss. Reflecting on the game's unique 11:00 AM kickoff time to accommodate Beach's graduation schedule, Burgoyne shares insight into the team's self-imposed curfew. In a poignant conclusion, he reflects on his legendary coaching career at Franklin as he prepares to step down at the end of the season to spend more time with his family.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Cascade champion baseball coach Travis Sheffield as the team prepares for a thrilling run in the Spring Fling state tournament. Reflecting on their intense, back-to-back victories against Huntington in the sectional round, Sheffield breaks down how the boys survived a grueling, 11-inning "boxing match" of a first game. He credits their success to a stellar pitching rotation—highlighted by ace Jaden Hathcock's phenomenal eight-inning, no-hitter performance—and a rock-solid defense that has anchored the team all season. Looking ahead, Sheffield discusses balancing graduation festivities with upcoming practice schedules, navigating key player injuries, and maintaining a focused, consistent approach as they gear up to face top-tier competition at Riverdale or Stewarts Creek.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Ravenwood high school girls' flag football coach Ricky Rodriguez, aka "Rick Rod," to celebrate the Lady Raptors' thrilling victory in the inaugural state championship game. Coach Rodriguez shares the intense emotional and physical toll of the tournament, reflecting on how his team rallied from a daunting 25-0 deficit in the third quarter against Mount Juliet. He praises the outstanding performances of key players like quarterback Carol Murvol and multi-sport athlete Allie Joyce, while emphasizing the powerhouse defense that anchored their season. Looking ahead, Rodriguez acknowledges the rising competition in the state, specifically from Mount Juliet, and expresses deep gratitude for the unique bond he formed coaching this special group of girls.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to another episode of High School Sports Saturday, hosted by Tate Mathews on 104.5 The Zone! Today’s show is packed with exciting guests and local sports news. We begin with Randall Clemens, who shares details about the "Home Runs and Home Teams" baseball exhibit in Granville, Tennessee, running through October 31st. Jeremy Moore also joins us to discuss his return as the head men's basketball coach at Independence High School, while Derek Day from Eastern Kentucky University shares his experiences recruiting high school talent in Middle Tennessee. Plus, we’ll hear about the upcoming QB camp with Scott Semptimphelter and get the latest updates on the TACA state tournament qualifiers. Finally, we wrap up with a special visit from College Football Hall of Famer Boots Donnelly. It’s a great day to celebrate high school sports in our community!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by coach Jeremy Moore, who has returned for a second stint as the head basketball coach at Independence High School. The two share a friendly and informal conversation, reflecting on Moore’s career path and his excitement to lead the Eagles once again. Key topics of their discussion include: Moore’s Professional Journey: Moore reflects on his first tenure at Independence from 2009 to 2012, his time at Centennial High School, and his brief departure from coaching before returning to Independence. A Familiar Environment: He discusses the professional and efficient hiring process led by Dr. Patton and the Independence administration, as well as the unique "community feel" and high-energy game day atmosphere at the school. The Role of a Coach: Moore emphasizes his love for the camaraderie of the locker room and the importance of building relationships with his players, acknowledging the unique challenges modern high school athletes face with social media. Strategy and Preparation: He expresses his passion for scouting and game planning as a way to stay competitive and contribute to the team's success. Looking Ahead: Moore shares his enthusiasm for the upcoming summer season and the opportunity to evaluate the returning talent and build a dedicated coaching staff. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Derek Day, the special teams coordinator and outside linebackers coach at Eastern Kentucky University. During their discussion, Day talks about the football recruiting trip to middle Tennessee and his time as a coach in the state. Day explains how the recruiting process has changed over time with the transfer portal and NIL. He shares some of the things the EKU coaching staff looks for in recruits: Character - coach Wells looks for kids that are tough, unselfish, and love football. Grades - Day says it's much easier to cross a kid's name off the recruiting list if they don't respond to coaches or have bad grades. Multiple sports - Day says he likes to see kids play multiple sports like basketball, baseball, or wrestling, so he can see how they compete. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Randall Clemons to discuss the "Home Runs and Home Teams" baseball exhibit in Granville, Tennessee, which runs through October 31. Exhibit Details: Developed by the East Tennessee History Museum, it features Tennessee baseball history since the 1850s, All-Star players, and historic ballparks. Key Highlights: The exhibit honors figures like Coach Woody Hunt and includes sections on women in baseball. Special Event: A vintage baseball game is scheduled for September 19 at 1:00 p.m.. Visiting: Open Wednesday–Saturday; a $7 ticket at the Sutton General Store grants access to the exhibit and all 12 local museums. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to another episode of High School Sports Saturday, where host Tate Mathews delivers the latest updates and insights from the Middle Tennessee sports scene. This week’s episode featured a comprehensive review of the newly released All-State Basketball teams, honoring standout athletes across various divisions in both boys' and girls' categories. Mathews expressed his congratulations to the talented young men and women recognized for their exceptional performances throughout the season. This Episode also highlighted significant developments in local coaching and team dynamics: Independence Men’s Basketball: Welcomed back Jeremy Moore for his second stint as head coach, succeeding Mark Wilkins. Baseball and Softball Rankings: Discussed current leaders, with Christ Presbyterian Academy topping the large class in baseball and Green Hill leading in softball. Post-Season Anticipation: Noted the start of post-season play for various spring sports, including girls' flag football, tennis, and track. Mathews conducted engaging interviews with local coaches, including: Josh Crouch (Green Hill Girls' Flag Football): Shared insights on the growing popularity of flag football and the team's preparation for the upcoming region tournament. Zach Hudson (Nolensville Knights Baseball): Discussed the team's recent victory over Franklin and the importance of strong pitching and defense as they head deeper into the playoffs. Additionally, Tom Cragger of the Tennessean provided a deep dive into the top high school football players and discussed the implications of moving the track and field state championships to Knoxville. The show concluded with reminders of the upcoming D1 Football Academy sessionsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Tom Kreager to discuss the upcoming high school softball and baseball post-season, highlighting key teams and standout players to watch. They specifically praise the Green Hill softball program and its star senior, Avery Stockwell, who has hit 16 home runs despite being intentionally walked frequently. In baseball, they discuss the success of Coach Nesbitt’s Friendship Christian team and notable players like Bo Hollaway and Caden Powell, the latter of whom made history by playing all nine positions in a single game. The conversation then shifts to the TSSAA's decision to move the track and field state championships to Knoxville, a move met with mixed emotions due to the logistical challenges it poses for multi-sport athletes and media coverage. Finally, they touch upon the impact of the one-time transfer rule, anticipating a surge in announcements once the school year concludes in June.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Nolensville High School baseball coach and Athletic Director Zach Hudson to discuss the team's postseason progress and the overall success of the school's athletic programs. Hudson reflects on a recent 6-0 win over Franklin, highlighted by Caleb Gilbert's strong performance on the mound. He looks ahead to a tournament matchup against Brentwood, noting the importance of depth in pitching and defensive consistency. The conversation also covers the team's experience competing against top national programs in North Carolina, such as St. John Bosco and Tampa Jesuit, as well as the recruitment of the Barney brothers to Oregon State. Hudson concludes by praising the school's vibrant athletic culture, including the district champion softball team and the highly energized "Friday night" atmosphere supported by the band and student section.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Coach Josh Crouch of the Green Hill Lady Hawks girls' flag football team, who calls in from a volleyball tournament in Atlanta where his daughter, Tatum Crouch, is competing. Coach Crouch shares his enthusiasm for the rapid growth of girls' flag football, noting that it has become an emerging sport with a robust feeder system and youth leagues now established in areas like Murfreesboro, Williamson County, and Mount Juliet. He highlights the success of his multisport athletes, particularly standout quarterback KT Tolber, an all-state basketball player who has thrown for over 1,500 yards and 20 touchdowns despite missing early games due to her basketball commitments. The conversation explores the strategic advantages basketball players bring to flag football, such as their natural ball-handling skills and ability to understand zone defenses. As the postseason approaches, Coach Crouch describes his team's fast-paced, unconventional "up-tempo" style and prepares for their upcoming game against Hendersonville, marking the start of a competitive regional tournament aimed at securing a spot in the state tournament.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode of High School Sports Saturday features a wide-ranging look at the past, present, and future of Tennessee athletics: New Beginnings in Antioch: Tate speaks with Jamie Graham, head football coach at the newly opened Nashville Collegiate Prep, about the school's 82-acre campus and his vision for building a legacy of discipline and passion in their inaugural seasons. Track and Field Excellence: Nolensville High School coach Kyle Manderfeld joins to recap a historic showing at the Great 8 invitational, highlighting record-breaking performances in the pole vault and 4x4 relay, as well as Brandon Brooks' repeat victory in the triple jump. NFL Draft and State Legends: In a lively roundtable with Tom Kreager and Coach Matthews, the group celebrates the draft selection of Tullahoma’s Jacobie Thomas and debates the greatest high school football players in Tennessee history, including legends like Reggie White and Jalen Ramsey. A Growing Talent Bed: The discussion concludes by noting the explosive growth of Middle Tennessee recruiting, underscored by the fact that four SEC teams will soon feature quarterbacks from the area. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Nashville Collegiate Prep’s (NCP) head football coach, Jamie Graham, to discuss the opening of the new tuition-free charter school in Antioch. Spanning 82 acres, the campus features a turf football stadium and a full baseball field, serving a diverse student body. Coach Graham, a Nashville native and former athlete at White’s Creek and Vanderbilt, shares his vision for a program built on passion, discipline, and detail, with plans for the football team to compete in Division 1, Class 2A. He is joined at NCP by Athletic Director and basketball coach Devon Arnold, and the two aim to establish a new athletic and academic legacy at a school that just opened its doors in August 2025.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Nolensville High School track and field coach Kyle Manderfeld to recap the team's historic performance at the Great 8 invitational. Coach Manderfeld shares his pride in the program, noting that they qualified more athletes for the event than ever before. The conversation highlights several standout performances, including Brandon Brooks' second consecutive triple jump victory and a school-record-breaking 4x4 relay team that finished second to Ravenwood. Manderfeld also praises individual achievements in the 300m hurdles and Langston McGee’s school record in the pole vault. As the spring season concludes, Manderfeld emphasizes the commitment of his senior-heavy squad to finishing their high school careers with integrity and intensity at the upcoming state meet.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Tom Kreager and later Coach Matthews in this lively discussion reflecting on the NFL Draft and the rich history of Tennessee high school football. The segment kicks off with the hosts celebrating Jacobie Thomas of Tullahoma, who was selected on day two of the draft, noting his impressive journey from MTSU to Miami. This leads into a broader "teaser" for a larger project with USA Today aimed at identifying the greatest Tennessee high school football players of all time. The participants trade names of legendary athletes who left their mark on the state, including Reggie White, Jalen Ramsey, Al Wilson, and Patrick Willis. As Coach Matthews joins, the conversation shifts to how the recruiting landscape in Middle Tennessee has exploded over the last decade, highlighted by the fact that four SEC teams will soon feature quarterbacks from the area. The group concludes by reminiscing about versatile multi-sport stars like Corn Elder and Ingle Martin, previewing an upcoming public poll where fans can vote on their own top ten lists. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Tate Mathews dives deep into the heart of Middle Tennessee athletics, beginning with an insightful interview with Scott Semptimphelter, Director of the Middle Tennessee 7v7 League and founder of Elite Football Skills. They explore the rapid growth of 7v7 football, which has expanded to 66 teams, providing high school athletes with crucial off-season reps in the passing game. The conversation then shifts to the baseball diamond with Coach Kenny Roeten of the Page Patriots. The Patriots are on a tear, boasting over 20 wins and a perfect district record fueled by an incredible offense featuring ten players hitting over .300. Coach Roeten discusses the team's balance of high-powered hitting and stellar pitching, the competitive synergy between elite catchers Luke Brown and Bryson Hastings, and how he embraces modern player expression—from long hair to fluorescent cleats—as long as the team plays hard and respects one another. Finally, Tom Kreager from The Tennessean joins the show to break down a week of significant administrative shifts and policy changes. They discuss the high-profile leadership vacancies at Brentwood Academy and Lipscomb Academy, brainstorm potential successors like Ricky Bowers and David Peden, and unpack the TSSAA’s newly refined one-time transfer rule. Kreager clarifies the complexities of "bonafide" moves and hardship claims, offering a essential guide for families navigating the evolving landscape of high school sports eligibility.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate Mathews is joined by Tom Kreager of The Tennessean to unpack a whirlwind week in Middle Tennessee high school sports. From high-profile leadership vacancies to the newly refined TSSAA transfer rules, they break down what these changes mean for athletes and schools alike.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate sits down with Coach Kenny Roeten of the Page Patriots baseball team to discuss their dominant season. With over 20 wins and an undefeated district record, Coach Rooten shares the secrets behind their offensive explosion and stellar pitching.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Tate Mathews as he interviews Scott Semptimphelter , Director of the Middle Tennessee 7v7 League and founder of Elite Football Skills. They dive into the evolving landscape of youth football in Middle Tennessee, focusing on how 7v7 leagues and specialized training are sharpening the skills of the region's top young athletes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate Mathews sits down with Hall of Fame coach John Wild to reflect on the retirement of Lamar Rogers, the iconic girls' basketball coach from Clarkrange High School. Then, Jay Pallas, Athletic Director at Dixon County High School, joins the show to share the thrill of watching former student-athlete Jackson Harrington compete as an amateur at The Masters. Finally, Tom Kreager from The Tennessean calls in from the Vanderbilt scrimmage to break down the latest news in high school recruiting and upcoming honors.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate Mathews catches up with Tom Kreager of The Tennessean, live from the Vanderbilt football scrimmage. Amidst the morning hustle, the two tackle the season’s most pressing high school sports headlines in Tennessee.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate Mathews welcomes Coach Jay Pallas, the multifaceted Athletic Director and Head Boys' Basketball Coach at Dixon County High School. The conversation centers on the extraordinary experience of watching former student-athlete and sophomore Tennessee golfer Jackson Harrington compete at the 90th Masters Tournament. As one of only a handful of amateurs to qualify, Harrington's journey from Dixon County to the hallowed grounds of Augusta National is a source of immense pride for his home community.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate Mathews sits down with Hall of Fame coach and regular correspondent John Wild to reflect on the retirement of a true basketball icon: Lamar Rogers. After an unprecedented 50-year coaching career at Clarkrange High School, Coach Rogers steps away from the court leaving behind a legacy that is likely unmatched in the history of Tennessee basketball. With 1,364 wins and only 350 losses, Rogers' career is a masterclass in consistency, featuring 26 state tournament appearances and eight state championships.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to another edition of HSSS with Tate Mathews! Tate is joined by Coach Jamaal Stewart of Hillsboro HS Football, Coach Michelle Doty of Brentwood HS Track & Field, and the Tennessean's Tom Kreager to talk all things high school sports in the midstate!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by the Tennessean's Tom Kreager for his weekly segment on HSSS as they keep you up-to-date on all things High School Sports in the Middle TN area!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Brentwood HS Track & Field Coach Michelle Doty to talk about the Bruins' season, top performers, and upcoming meets!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tate is joined by Hillsboro HS Football Coach Jamaal Stewart to talk about Spring Football, standout players to watch, and more!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.