PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY

We will field a team that excels on the field, achieves in the classroom, and positively impacts our school and community.  Every athlete in our program will be treated with respect and dignity as we strive to reach our potential as a team and as individuals.  We will honor the great game of football by always playing with class, within the rules and as hard as we physically can.

 1. Provide an environment for learning

            #1 Priority is the welfare of the players

            Safe, recondition and new equipment

            Coaches constantly being educated of teaching skills

            Teaching proper fundamentals with the safest technique

            Practice and video to develop players and the team

2. Develop a strong program & tradition

            Desire to win

            State playoffs

            Be a T-Bird forever

3. Promote a family atmosphere

            Touchdown Club  – Booster Club for program

            (pre-game dinners, game snacks & drinks, posters)

            Team Camp: Mom’s Clinic, Dads vs Son's game, Cookouts

            Fundraisers: Hunk Auctions, BOTB

            End of Season Banquet

            Promote Family and Community Support

4. Promote qualities that players will use in everyday life

             -Character                   -Accountability

            -Leadership                 -Communication

            -Resilience                   -Time Management

            -Teamwork                  -Respect

            -Discipline                   -Community Engagement

            -Humility                     -Perseverance

5. Provide a program that is positive and rewarding for players

Improved athletic performance

See progress/sense of accomplishment with hard work

Recognition from teammates, coaches, family, etc.

Change in body composition, improving confidence and self esteem

Competitive experiences for multi-sport athletes

Enhanced resume for future opportunities

Senior Night - September 15th vs Seaman

Youth Football Night - October 6th vs Wamego

* Acknowledging the Young Thunderbirds youth tackle football program

Homecoming - October 13th vs Topeka West

SH Football Honors and Records

62 Years of SHHS Football

8 Win Seasons - 2023 - 1994 - 1973

7 Win Seasons - 2017 - 2014 - 1979

6 Win Seasons - 2008 - 2007 - 2006 - 2001

League Champions - 2017 - 1994

Regional Champions - 2023

Sectional Champions - 2014

State Place - 2014=3rd

• Summer Conditioning

• High School Football Camp

• Middle School Football Camp

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• Youth Football Camp

• Youth Speed and Agility Camp

Program Philosophy

The Young Thunderbirds program focuses on the 3 F’s; Fundamentals, Fun, and Future.  The program and the coaches focus on teaching the correct fundamentals to the youth so that they are better prepared for future athletics.  Coaches will expect a lot out of players but in return players will grow athletically, learn character, and develop team work.  Once the players grasp the fundamentals the program focuses on fun.  Youth sports are a time for athletes to develop and learn more about life than what is on the scoreboard or the end of the year record of wins and losses.  We do not allow college or professional recruiters at practice or games so the players do not need to perform at an elite level.  If a player does not have fun then they will not want to continue the game and the focus is to have our players eager to play each season.  The future is bright.  If the program teaches fundamentals and fun then the future comes next.  The goal of the program is to develop young athletes with great character and continue to play the sport. 

Coach Philosophy

All coaches need to be USA football certified to be on the field during tackle practice, even if it is just holding bags.  We work together as a whole and good competition brings out the best in players but bad sportsmanship (against our own teams or opponents) will not be tolerated.  Football is the ultimate team sport so team cohesiveness is a must.  A team must bond and recognize each player has a role and each role is vital.  We are a team so we look like a team (game day uniforms match, including socks).  Coaches need to expect their players to make practices and if a player is going to miss they need to get the coach that information (taking attendance is highly recommended).  Coaches will explain to parents the 24 hour rule before the season starts and remind them often throughout the season.  This 24 hour rule means that discussions about a game, coaching, or an instance where emotions are high or an individual is upset, the issue is not discussed until 24 hours have passed.  This is to allow all parties involved to emotionally level out, regain the ability to think critically, and have the ability to have a rational conversation, this includes message threads and virtual communication. 

 Parent Expectations

Parent are expected to support the coaches and the program.  Parents are not to yell at any player, coach, other fans in attendance during practice or games.  Parents are expected to support the coaches decisions and not undermine the coaching, positions, or philosophies at practice or games, or at home.  Parents are expected to communicate with coaches if a player will not be at practice or a game.  Parents are expected to get their player(s) to events on time.  Parents are expected to set a good example for all the players. 

Player Expectations

Players are expected to be at all events and to give 100% effort and focus.  Players are expected to be great teammates and support all players and teams in the program.  Players are expected to be on time to all events.  Players are expected to listen and focus during events.  Players are to be respectful during all events.  Players are expected to learn the game so that they can play their positions correctly and take ownership of the role they have within the team.  Players are expected to learn the fundamentals of the game.  Players are expected to be team players and not individuals; including but not limited to, game uniform, game socks, no special game apparel (pink for breast cancer).  If the program decides to do something unique all will be included and it will be for a purpose. 

For more Information on the program contact us at:

www.youngthunderbirds.com

youngthunderbirds@yahoo.com

https://www.facebook.com/youngthunderbirds

What is TOUCHDOWN CLUB (TDC)? We are non-profit organization comprised of dedicated parents and community members that support SHHS football. Our organization is here to assist the players to grow with the program allowing them to have the best experience possible. By joining TDC, it is an opportunity to get involved and show your support for a group of young adults who have come together through hard work. 

Where do the fees go? 
TDC uses these funds to purchase football equipment and accessories for the players. We have purchased equipment bags, sled pads, an end zone camera and an extended Hudl package (football statics website). Other items on the programs wish list are towers for the cameras, the ability to purchase better equipment and even possibly add another coach. These are only possible with the support of our family, friends, and our community. Please consider becoming a member.

Stay in touch
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThunderbirdTouchdownClub
Email: ShawneeHeightsTDC@gmail.com

How you can help our team? 
•    Join the Touchdown Club
•    Volunteer to help with Thursday night dinners, meals and hydration, or fundraising events

Touchdown Club Membership options https://forms.gle/PbDub6otVz2nq5zv5

•    Donate cases of water and Gatorade. Bring to each game.
•    Attend Touchdown Club meetings. 
•    Volunteer at a football events or before/after games.
•    Serve beverages/snacks at away games.
•    Plan team meals. Help serve and/or contribute to team meals.
•    Purchase Touchdown Club spirit wear/items.

Shawnee Heights High School football program encourages the spirit of sportsmanship, teamwork, and honesty so that our young men & women become can become better citizens in our community.  

See you at the game! GO THUNDERBIRDS!