What happens when a school district of more than 18,000 student-athletes decides to raise the bar for sportsmanship? In this episode of Coach 360: Beyond The Game, presented by 2Words Character Development, host Colton reconnects with longtime mentor and friend, Coach Charles Ament, Associate Athletic Director of Cy-Fair ISD. With nearly three decades of experience in coaching and leadership, Coach Ament brings a wealth of insight into how character, community, and consistent communication shape the culture of athletics.

This conversation highlights The Texas Way—a statewide sportsmanship initiative designed to decrease ejections, build stronger relationships among coaches, athletes, officials, and parents, and create a better experience for communities across Texas. Coach Ament shares how Cy-Fair ISD implemented this initiative with intentionality, moving beyond posters and slogans to practical actions that transform culture.

Whether you're a head coach, an assistant, or an athletic director, this episode challenges you to ask one powerful question: What are we really doing to model and build sportsmanship? From empowering student-athlete leaders to celebrating officials, Coach Ament reveals how small, consistent steps lead to lasting change.

Key Takeaways

Community matters: Athletics thrive when schools create a sense of belonging, discipline, and shared values.
Consistent messaging is key: Posters aren't enough—coaches and administrators must live out sportsmanship daily.
Student leadership drives culture: Cy-Fair's SALT (Student Athlete Leadership Teams) gave players ownership in leading the Texas Way.
Celebrate the positive: Recognizing officials, honoring opponents, and highlighting sportsmanship moments reinforces good behavior.
Coach voices carry weight: Even in small schools, a single coach's consistent emphasis can shift culture.
Parents and fans must be engaged: Announcements, cards, and ticketing agreements all helped set expectations for spectators.
Momentum builds over time: Change doesn't happen overnight, but consistent small actions create lasting results.
Vision + Action = Impact: Setting a clear district vision and empowering coaches to implement it led to tangible improvements in Cy-Fair ISD.

The Texas Way Sportsmanship Initiative

Interested in registering for The Texas Way? Join the initiative at: www.PlayTheTexasWay.com

COACH 360 IS PRESENTED BY: 2Words Character Development

Interested in connecting or taking the next step with 2Words Character Development? Let us know! Email Colton Leonard at: Colton@2words.tv Visit http://www.2words.tv/preview to learn more and for a free week of the curriculum.

JOIN 2WORDS ON SPORTSYOU

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347. Charles Ament: Building Momentum in the Texas Way. "What are you doing to create real change?"