“The Best part I’ve noticed is people here are so much more welcoming than where I’m from,” said Lingleville ISD’s new girls’ athletic coordinator Brandon Haught.
The 29-year-old is a graduate of ClearView High School and earned his history degree from the University of Houston-Clear Lake before moving into coaching and teaching. He was looking for a change in environment from League City and is happy with the one he found in Erath County.
“People in Houston are always frowning and looking away,” Haught said. “Here, people smile and go out of their way to say hello.” Haught admits that he sometimes forgets to say hello back because of his former home… but he’s working on it.
Haught has coached a variety of sports including football, volleyball, basketball, track and soccer. He started by coaching boys sports but transferred to coaching girls. The biggest difference? “I’ve enjoyed how much more receptive girls are on the court,” he said, indicating boys are more resistant to instruction if they feel like they’re already getting positive results.
As the coordinator, Haught will be head coach for volleyball and basketball and assist in track. Both of the team sports are among his favorites with Haught saying that volleyball teaches a lot of communication and trust because one player can’t carry a team. Haught feels that basketball is a sport of toughness and resolve because players can’t rest on a lead as the score can go back and forth and players can fowl out, throwing the team into a different rhythm.
The new AD will be assisted by Lauren Wilson, who he credits for her ability to connect with players and collaborate. “I think we’ll be a great combo,” he said.
Haught is also meshing well with boys’ athletic director Garrett Stewart and said they’re excited to grow Lingleville’s programs and involvement this year.
Haught admits that the school is already in a good place, saying that the 1A school seems to draw as many fans as a 6A.
Haught thanked the school admin, staff and parents for how welcoming they’ve been and is excited for the school year to start. “It’s going to be a fun year,” he said.