In Episode 2 of the THSADA Director’s Cut – Hall of Honor Series, we sit down with Todd Vesely, a 2025 THSADA Hall of Honor inductee whose career spans from humble beginnings as a gymnastics coach in Odessa to leading one of the largest athletic programs in Texas at Fort Worth ISD.

Powered live by GoVision at the 2025 Spring Sponsor Showcase, this episode offers more than a look back — it’s an honest, insightful conversation about leadership, legacy, and what comes next.

Todd reflects on:

• Overcoming early doubt and defying expectations
• Building culture through influence, not authority
• The transferable skills coaches carry into life after retirement
• How artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of athletic administration

Whether you’re a veteran AD or just starting your leadership journey, this episode delivers real talk, real lessons, and a vision for where Texas high school athletics is headed.

In this special Hall of Honor Series episode of the THSADA Director’s Cut, we sit down with Ray Zepeda, UIL’s Director of Athletics and a 2025 inductee into the THSADA Hall of Honor.

From humble beginnings as a Houston-area coach to leading statewide initiatives that impact thousands, Ray shares powerful reflections on the role of mentorship, the strength of community, and the passion that’s fueled his journey for more than three decades.

We talk about:

• His path from the sideline to UIL leadership
• The launch and statewide impact of The Texas Way sportsmanship initiative
• Navigating legislative challenges in education-based athletics
• Balancing family, purpose, and a career of service

This episode is more than a celebration of a remarkable career — it’s a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and staying mission-driven in the face of change.

🎙️ Recorded live at the 2025 THSADA Spring Sponsor Showcase

🎧 Presented by PracticePlan – the zero-cost platform transforming facility scheduling and rental revenue for Texas school districts.