Head coaches welcome new season, programs

Even during these uncertain times, everyone in Rockdale and its surrounding communities are anticipating the return of high school football. However, the sidelines will look a tad bit different this year as new coaches take the helm of their respective teams.

Five RHS soccer players receive all-district honors

Two Tiger athletes were named to 26-4A all-district soccer teams and three players received honorable mention nods. German Mata was named first team all-district by the Texas High School Coaches Association for the 2019-20 season last Friday. “Mata was definitely a game changer.

Thorndale hires new basketball coach

After going through 30 applicants, Thorndale named Michael Williams as their new head basketball coach. “Williams brings a ton of experience to the position,” Thorndale ISD Superintendent Adam Ivy said. “He is a great educator first and he knows what it takes to win.

Game wardens deal with hawks, COVID

A Hardin County game warden received a call from the manager of an Office Depot store in Beaumont. The manager said they had a small hawk flying around inside the store and couldn’t get it to leave, even though they had the front and back roll-up doors open.

UIL posts rules for physicals

Last Friday, the University Interscholastic League passed two rulings in response to change caused by the COVID-19 pandemic related to high school physicals and future disruptions.

THS softball coach recognizes seniors

After a heartbreaking loss in last year’s 2A state championship game, the Thorndale softball team planned to finish what they started in 2020. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, more heartbreak occurred as the UIL decided to end all spring sports.

It is time to start respecting women’s sports

On April 17, many people watched the 2020 WNBA Draft on ESPN. University of Oregon point guard Sabrina Ionescu was selected as the number one draft pick by the New York Liberty. Ionescu left Oregon as one of the most decorated players in college basketball history.

Thorndale hires within for AD/head coach job

After a 10-day external and internal search, John Kovar was named Thorndale’s athletic director and head coach. “Kovar is a proven winner,” Thorndale ISD Superintendent Adam Ivy said. “He’s shown himself to be a great balance of intensity and compassion and the kids would run through a wall for him.

Milam schools to hold virtual banquets

Due the rising number of COVID-19 cases in Milam County (as of Tuesday there were 15 confirmed cases), high schools have decided to honor their athletes through social media platforms. Rockdale High School will hold its first ever virtual spring banquet 6 p.m., Wednesday, May 6 on Facebook.

RISD equipment return set for different times

Rockdale High School and junior high schools have scheduled dates and times for students to return sports equipment, April 28-May 1. Coaches ask that students maintain social distancing when turning in equipment.