Skip to main content

Thorndale ISD

Striving for Excellence

Athletics

THORNDALE ATHLETICS

Athletics Leadership

John Kovar – Athletic Director 

Doug Franklin – Girls Coordinator 

Kelly Kuhl – Boys Coordinator 

 

 

At Thorndale ISD, Bulldog and Lady Dog athletics play a vital role in shaping student experiences both on and off the field. Our athletics program provides students with numerous benefits, fostering a strong sense of belonging, pride, and school spirit throughout our campus and community. Sporting events bring together students, staff, families, and fans, creating a shared identity and enhancing cohesion across Thorndale.

Participation in athletics contributes to a lifelong commitment to health and physical activity. Students who engage in school sports are more likely to maintain active lifestyles as adults and develop a deep appreciation for wellness and fitness.

The academic benefits of physical activity are well-documented. Regular movement and training improve cognitive function, focus, memory, and overall academic performance. Physical activity releases neurochemicals that support motivation, mood, attention, and learning, helping students perform better in the classroom.

Athletes also learn to balance academics with extracurricular commitments, developing strong time management and organizational skills. The discipline required in athletics often translates into improved study habits and academic achievement.

Beyond physical fitness, our programs support the mental and emotional well-being of students by reducing stress, building confidence, and fostering resilience. Participation in team sports teaches teamwork, leadership, communication, and builds friendships that last beyond the season. Students also learn important life values such as hard work, integrity, respect, and perseverance.

At Thorndale ISD, integrating athletics into the school experience helps our students grow as well-rounded individuals. Through the Bulldog and Lady Dog athletic programs, we are proud to support the physical, mental, social, and academic development of our students—on the field, in the classroom, and in life.

Athletic Infomation

  • The Thorndale Independent School District is committed to producing a wholesome, competitive athletic program that emphasizes the importance of academics, sportsmanship, and citizenship. The Athletic Program should be a source of pride to participants, staff, parents, and the community. Accordingly, everyone directly or indirectly involved must do his or her part to ensure the success of the program.

    Athletic Policy

  • We believe that participants who represent Thorndale ISD, the community of Thorndale, their classmates, and their families have an obligation to perform at the highest level of their ability and to behave in a manner that casts a positive light on everyone and everything they represent.

    Drug Consent Form

    Random Drug Testing Policy 

  • All Thorndale ISD Athletics paperwork must be completed online through Rank One.
    This is a requirement for all athletes to participate in any sports programs.

    Please ensure your child completes the online forms as soon as possible to avoid any delays in participation.

    • 7th, 9th and 11th need a physical AND fill out the ONLINE paperwork.
      • Turn in physical to Coach Shoemake AFTER completing the paperwork
    • 8th, 10th and 12th just need to complete ONLINE paperwork!

    Instructions

    • Click below link
    • Create an Account
    • Student ID is lunch code (6-digits) 00____
    • Click VIEW (next to students name)
    • Click each form to fill out online (you do not need to download.)

    Rank One Forms

  • Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date with the latest news, events, and highlights from Bulldog & Lady Dog athletics!

    Facebook: @ThorndaleAthletics

    Instagram: @ThorndaleAthletics

     

  • Please use the form below to order pictures for your child’s athletic team.
    Coaches will communicate picture day dates in advance and may also distribute order forms during practice.

    Sports Picture Form

  • Tickets for all Bulldog & Lady Dog games are cash only at the gate.
    For detailed pricing, click the link below:

    Ticket Prices 

WIN EVERY DAY

Coaching Assignments

    • Baseball
      • Head Coach: Kelly Kuhl
      • Asst. Coaches: Logan Ballard, Kirk Wagner
    • Basketball  
      • Head Coach: Michael Williams
      • Asst. Coaches: Sergio Garcia, Casey McDaniel 
      • JH Coaches: Logan Ballard, Jeff Rowe
    • Cross Country 
    • Football 
      • Head Coach: John Kovar
      • Asst./JH Coaches: Logan Ballard, Lance Betak, Deron Clay, Sergio Garcia, Kelly Kuhl, Casey McDaniel, Michael Williams
    • Golf 
    • Powerlifting  
      • Head Coach: 
      • Asst. Coach: Deron Clay
    • Tennis  
    • Track 
      • Head Coach: Doug Franklin
      • Asst. Coaches: Sergio Garcia, Markell Irvin, Casey McDaniel, Michael Williams
    • Basketball  
      • Head Coach: Doug Franklin
      • Asst. Coaches: Kristy Shoemake, Kirk Wagner
      • JH Coaches: Markell Irvin, Stephen King
    • Cross Country 
    • Golf 
    • Powerlifting  
      • Head Coach: 
      • Asst. Coach: Deron Clay
    • Softball 
      • Head Coach: Lance Betak
      • Asst. Coach: Stephen King, Jeff Rowe
    • Tennis  
    • Track 
      • Head Coach: Doug Franklin
      • Asst. Coaches: Sergio Garcia, Markell Irvin, Casey McDaniel, Michael Williams
    • Volleyball 
      • Head Coach: Stephen King
      • Asst. Coaches: Kristy Shoemake, Kirk Wagner
      • JH Coaches: Markell Irvin, Kristy Shoemake