POPULARITY
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 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.
Hour 1 of June 11, 2026 Jacob Townsend talks about why the Texas/Tennessee game is going to be played at noon. Then, he goes through the rest of Tennessee's schedule for time slots. Also, he talks about the TSSAA changing up the seeding for high school basketball state tournaments. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hour 3 of June 11, 2026 Jacob Townsend and Bud talk with a caller about the Texas Tech situation. Then, they are joined by NHRA Top Fuel driver, Shawn Langdon, to talk about going 345 mph and to preview the weekend at Thunder Valley. Also, they discuss the TSSAA changing the format for state basketball tournaments. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hour 1 of June 10, 2026 Jacob Townsend talks about what the Big 12 can and should do with Texas Tech and Brendan Sorsby. Then, he discusses the TSSAA implementing a shot clock in basketball. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hour 2 of June 10, 2026 Jacob Townsend talks about what Brett Yormark and the Big 12 are going to do about Texas Tech and Brendan Sorsby with so much pressure from the rest of the league. Then, he discusses the TSSAA voting on Tuesday to implement a shot clock in high school basketball. Also, the Lady Vols move quick on a new hitting coach. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hour 3 of June 10, 2026 Jacob Townsend talks with Steve Wilmoth, of TriCitiesSports.com, to talk about the TSSAA implementing a shot clock for high school basketball over the next four seasons. Then, Jacob is joined by Brent Hubbs, of Volquest, to talk about the Brendan Sorsby situation in college football, David Gabriel Georges visit at Tennessee, Josh Elander and Karen Weekly's new hires, and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hour 4 of June 10, 2026 Jacob Townsend talks with NHRA Top Fuel driver, Justin Ashley, about the upcoming weekend at Thunder Valley and more. Then, Jacob is joined by Jordan Vandergriff, NHRA Funny Car driver, to talk about his postponed final of the New Hampshire Finals this weekend, Thunder Valley, and his time on the Bachelorette and Bachelor in Paradise. Also, he recaps the TSSAA instituting a shot clock in basketball.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jacob Townsend talks with Steve Wilmoth, of TriCitiesSports.com, to talk about the TSSAA implementing a shot clock for high school basketball over the next four seasons.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.
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.
This week on the PayneCast:Brandon Sorsby - Should he be able to play in 2026?Lane Kiffin's comments about Ole MissTommy Tuberville Wins Republican Primary for Alabama GovernorBradley Central Girl's Basketball Hires Jody AdamsGPS SoftballTSSAA playoffsGHSA playoffsRushmore of Overrated DessertsBuy/SellBe sure you leave us a review and a rating. You can follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube, Facebook, & Instagram! Please send your comments, topics, and ideas to thepaynecast1@gmail.com.
This week on the PayneCast:Kansas City reviewRIP Ted Turner and Bobby CoxAFCA proposes the elimination of conference championship gamesCFP model is unchanged for 2026 seasonMLB baseballSEC BaseballTSSAA playoffsGHSA playoffsRushmore of Things that Sound Fun but are Actually MiserableBuy/SellBe sure you leave us a review and a rating. You can follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube, Facebook, & Instagram! Please send your comments, topics, and ideas to thepaynecast1@gmail.com.
This week on the PayneCast:James Gribben - New Heritage Girl's Basketball CoachNCAA basketball tournament up to 76 teamsMLB BaseballSEC BaseballNGAC ChampionshipTSSAA PlayoffsGHSA PlayoffsRushmore of DessertsBuy/SellBe sure you leave us a review and a rating. You can follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube, Facebook, & Instagram! Please send your comments, topics, and ideas to thepaynecast1@gmail.com.
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.
This week on the PayneCast:Las Vegas reviewNFL Draft recapMLB baseballSEC BaseballNGAC ChampionshipTSSAA playoffsGHSA playoffsRushmore of Professional WrestlersBuy/SellBe sure you leave us a review and a rating. You can follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube, Facebook, & Instagram! Please send your comments, topics, and ideas to thepaynecast1@gmail.com.
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.
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.
Stephen Hargis discusses the TSSAA's newly set parameters involving the one-time transfer rule for high school athletes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on the PayneCast:The PayneCast is joining “During the Break”'s Pod-A-Thon on March 27 at 6:00Buddy Barnes interview reactionLFO Alumni Night reactionTrump's EO for NILHeritage Girls to the State FinalTSSAA and GHSA baseball underwayWorld Baseball ClassicBuy/SellBe sure you leave us a review and a rating. You can follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube, Facebook, & Instagram! Please send your comments, topics, and ideas to thepaynecast1@gmail.com.
This episode of High School Sports Saturday Tate Mathews, provides an in-depth look at the current landscape of Middle Tennessee athletics, ranging from major state championships to significant policy shifts within the TSSAA.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tate is joined by Tom Kreager from the Tennessean in this week's episode of High School Sports Saturday to recap a busy week in local athletics, from the state championships, including some impressive performances and exciting storylines. He also touches on the topic of the state government's potential takeover of the TSSAA, and the implications it could have on the athletic landscape. Plus, he shares his thoughts on the new football rules from the NFHS, and discusses the upcoming Miss Basketball awards. It's a packed episode with plenty of discussion and analysis.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tate is joined by Tom Kreager from the Tennessean in this week's episode of High School Sports Saturday to recap a busy week in local athletics, from the state championships, including some impressive performances and exciting storylines. He also touches on the topic of the state government's potential takeover of the TSSAA, and the implications it could have on the athletic landscape. Plus, he shares his thoughts on the new football rules from the NFHS, and discusses the upcoming Miss Basketball awards. It's a packed episode with plenty of discussion and analysis.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This episode of High School Sports Saturday Tate Mathews, provides an in-depth look at the current landscape of Middle Tennessee athletics, ranging from major state championships to significant policy shifts within the TSSAA.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tate is joined by Mike Voss, the head coach of the Riverdale Warriors men’s basketball team, to discuss the team's recent momentum following key victories over Clarksville Northeast and Oakland. Voss highlights the impressive performances of Ryan Wilkerson, who scored over 20 points in consecutive games, and Braylen Burns, a dual-sport athlete who has quickly become the team's leading scorer and rebounder after transitioning from football. The coach also addresses the logistical hurdles created by the TSSAA's new smaller district format, which forced him to independently schedule nearly 20 games while coordinating doubleheaders with the women's program. Despite the team's recent success, Voss notes that they have had to overcome significant adversity due to season-ending injuries to key sophomores Will Knight and Hudson Fuqua. He credits the team's bench depth and leadership for keeping the season on track as they prepare for a highly anticipated "Battle of the 'Boro" matchup against Blackman and Coach Wortman. The segment concludes with a brief discussion on college football, where Voss expresses his respect for Indiana coach Curt Cignetti and predicts that Indiana's high level of play makes them a formidable contender in the national championship conversation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tate Mathews and The Tennessean’s Tom Kreager examined the shifting landscape of Tennessee high school athletics. The discussion centered on a "changing of the guard" within the coaching ranks, highlighted by high-profile departures such as Matt Kriesky from Blackman and Ben Caudill from Stewarts Creek, as well as the return of Trent Dilfer to Lipscomb Academy. Kreager attributed this high turnover rate to the professionalization of the sport, noting that new TSSAA rules allowing one-time transfers and the emergence of NIL opportunities have transformed high school coaching into a grueling, 24/7 role focused on roster management. Concerns were also raised regarding a potential "coaching shortage" as experienced mentors step away due to the sport's evolving culture and the increasing influence of the transfer portal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tate Mathews is joined by Mike Voss, head coach of the Riverdale Warriors, who shares how his team is building momentum after crucial wins over Clarksville Northeast and Oakland. Voss highlights the standout play of Ryan Wilkerson and Braylen Burns, but also sheds light on the logistical "grind" of the new TSSAA district format, which has forced coaches to take on the massive task of independent scheduling for nearly 20 additional games. The conversation also introduces Chad Broadrick, the new head coach at Centennial High School, who discusses his vision for building a culture of "connection and toughness". While Broadrick is focused on installing a versatile defensive front and maintaining offensive continuity, the broader coaching landscape is facing significant upheaval. The Tennessean’s Tom Kreager joins the show to discuss a notable "changing of the guard" in the region, marked by the high-profile departures of Matt Kriesky from Blackman and Ben Caudill from Stewarts Creek, as well as the high-stakes return of Trent Dilfer to Lipscomb Academy. Kreager suggests these shifts point to a new era of "professionalized" high school sports. With the introduction of NIL opportunities and TSSAA rules allowing one-time transfers, the role of a head coach has evolved into a 24/7 roster management position similar to the college level. As experienced mentors step away due to the grueling nature of this new culture and the constant pressure of the transfer portal, concerns are rising about a potential long-term coaching shortage in the state. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
David Stephenson of the U.S. Christian Athletic Association and Dr. Wendy Oliver of Virstone Prep Academy discuss Christian schools that are not affiliated with the TSSAA.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on the PayneCast:“Restricted to the Dugout” with Matt Roberson Football signing dayMcCallie-Gordon Connell Wrestling InvitationalTSSAA football playoffsGHSA football playoffsCollege football reviewRushmore of ChristmasBe sure you leave us a review and a rating. You can follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube, Facebook, & Instagram! Please send your comments, topics, and ideas to thepaynecast1@gmail.com.
Charles Pulliam on 3HL - An Update on the TSSAA State Championship GamesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Charles Pulliam on 3HL - An Update on the TSSAA State Championship GamesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tate is joined by the Tennessean's Tom Kreager for his weekly segment on HSSS! Tom recaps the state semifinal matchups in the midstate and previews the upcoming state championship matchups for TSSAA!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on the PayneCast: Blaine Woody interview Mark Mariakis steps down at Signal MountainFrank Anderson leaves Tennessee baseballBraves are making movesTSSAA football playoffsGHSA football playoffsCollege football reviewGrateful GobblerRushmore of Sports UniformsBuy/SellBe sure you leave us a review and a rating. You can follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube, Facebook, & Instagram! Please send your comments, topics, and ideas to thepaynecast1@gmail.com.
The podcast is making its third visit to Tennessee.UIAAA Connection #255 – Dan Schlafer, CAA, Board of Control - TSSAA, is now available. Dan grew up in Kentucky and graduated from high school in Knoxville, Tennessee. His father served as a pastor, and his mother taught piano. An all-around athlete, he played football at Carson Newman University before beginning a long career in education as a head football coach, athletic director, principal, and superintendent. He is the only podcast guest who has taught at both Baptist and a Catholic high school. Drawing inspiration from Dabo Swinney, he reminds listeners: “Let the light that shines in you be brighter than the light that shines on you.” His final message—don't cling to titles and finish strong with the time you have left. This podcast is also available on Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Breaker, Castbox, Google Podcasts, iHeartRadio, Overcast, Pocket Casts, RadioPublic, Spotify, Stitcher, and YouTube.
This week on the PayneCast:Cincinnati - Johnny Bench tripNick Kurtz wins AL ROYBig signing day in the Chattanooga areaTSSAA football playoffsGHSA football playoffsGL and Heritage are state cheerleading championsCollege football reviewGrateful GobblerBuy/sellBe sure you leave us a review and a rating. You can follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube, Facebook, & Instagram! Please send your comments, topics, and ideas to thepaynecast1@gmail.com.
On this week's edition of Give Me A Break!, John Wilkerson talked about the TSSAA's rules, Vince ranted about Bill O'Brien lecturing a reporter, and Producer Ben Hardy both praised and scolded USC over their fake punt play.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this week's edition of Give Me A Break!, John Wilkerson talked about the TSSAA's rules, Vince ranted about Bill O'Brien lecturing a reporter, and Producer Ben Hardy both praised and scolded USC over their fake punt play.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this week's edition of Give Me A Break!, John Wilkerson talked about the TSSAA's rules, Vince ranted about Bill O'Brien lecturing a reporter, and Producer Ben Hardy both praised and scolded USC over their fake punt play.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on the PayneCast:Cole Wilcox to the Seattle MarinersDale Murphy to the HOF?Craig Pritchett resigns at RidgelandTSSAA FB Results/Playoff PictureGHSA FB Results/Playoff PictureCollege Football ReviewChilimauga ResultsGrateful GobblerRushmore of Corporate LogosBuy/sellBe sure you leave us a review and a rating. You can follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube, Facebook, & Instagram! Please send your comments, topics, and ideas to thepaynecast1@gmail.com.
This week on the PayneCast:RIP George RavelingMLB Playoff PreviewCFB ReviewNFL OpensBrady, Manning and Brees not “generational talents”TSSAA football reviewGHSA football reviewRushmore of OverratedBuy/SellBe sure you leave us a review and a rating. You can follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube, Facebook, & Instagram! Please send your comments, topics, and ideas to thepaynecast1@gmail.com.
This week on the PayneCast:Boo Carter buys uniforms for Brainerd High footballLee Corso says goodbyeCollege football reviewNico hate watchTSSAA football reviewGHSA football reviewRushmore of BeveragesBuy/SellBe sure you leave us a review and a rating. You can follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube, Facebook, & Instagram! Please send your comments, topics, and ideas to thepaynecast1@gmail.com.
This week on the PayneCast:Ryan beach reviewTennessee names starting QBAuburn retiring Cam Newton's number 2 SEC going to 9 conference games in 2026CFB BeginsGHSA Games - Ringgold vs. Heritage on deckTSSAA Games - Rankin gets #500B.J. Coleman…authorRushmore of DuosBuy/SellBe sure you leave us a review and a rating. You can follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube, Facebook, & Instagram! Please send your comments, topics, and ideas to thepaynecast1@gmail.com.
Greg Pogue and Coach Bubba Spears look at Week 1 of the TSSAA. They're joined by TSSAA Executive Director Mark Reeves and Watson Brown.
This week on the PayneCast:Flooding this past weekBoo Carter dramaTennessee switches from Nike to adidasTennessee Tech joins the SoConMichigan's punishmentTSSAA transfers have doubled in the past yearGeorgia High School footballBuy/SellBe sure you leave us a review and a rating. You can follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube, Facebook, & Instagram! Please send your comments, topics, and ideas to thepaynecast1@gmail.com.
This year, one Tennessee lawmaker put a lot of pressure on the TSSAA to change one of its rules. Now we might know why he cared so much. Plus, the local news for July 14, 2025, and a new excerpt from Music Citizens. Credits: This is a production of Nashville Public RadioHost/producer: Nina CardonaEditor: Miriam KramerAdditional support: Mack Linebaugh, Tony Gonzalez, Rachel Iacovone, LaTonya Turner and the staff of WPLN and WNXP
In this episode, we take a closer look at the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA) and its impact on students, schools, and communities across the state. Mark Reeves, Executive Director of TSSAA, shares insights on how TSSAA supports both athletic excellence and academic integrity. Tune in as we explore what it means to lead, play, and grow through school sports – and why it's about so much more than just the scoreboard. Click here if you wish to read the transcript of today's podcast episode.
Join Tate for another edition of HSSS! Tate is joined this week by the TSSAA's Matthew Gillespie, Charles Pulliam of the Williamson Herald, and the Tennessean's Tom Kreager to catch you up on all things High School Sports in the Midstate as we head into the summer!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This edition of Stories from the Ridge features a livelyroundtable discussion hosted by Executive Athletic Director Kenny Sholl. He is joined by Senior Associate Athletic Director Jeff Romero and Communications Writer Mark Wiedmer '76 as they chatt about the latest TSSAA transfer rules, the success and challenges in the spring sports lineup, and the upcoming Spring Fling, the state athletic championships. This discussion was recorded May 19, 2025.
This week on the PayneCast:Pete Rose Day ReviewDiscussion on Pete Rose's reinstatementGordon Lee to the state championshipTSSAA Spring Fling update - Bradley/Siegel Controversy, Baylor outSEC Baseball TournamentNCAA Softball RegionalsVols - Nike or adidas?NFL schedule releasedOverreactionBuy/SellJust one more thingBe sure you leave us a review and a rating. You can follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube, Facebook, & Instagram! Please send your comments, topics, and ideas to thepaynecast1@gmail.com.
On today's show, Gary Parrish joins the show in-studio for the first hour to talk about Penny Hardaway's comments on PJ Haggerty about other teams already recruiting him for next season, what it will likely cost Memphis to keep Haggerty, why Chris and GP have faith that Memphis will be able to keep him, Cooper Flagg's situation at Duke, if he'd possibly come back, and more (3:00)Richard Wesley, Booby Feaster, reclassifying, the new TSSAA rule allowing kids to transfer now, and why this will have a negative effect on players and coaches (57:47)Tony Allen: The Grindfather and tonight's Grizzlies/Mavericks game (1:17:01)