Central Texas schools prepare to use approved technology this football season

WACO, Texas (KWTX) - The high school football season is just around the corner, with two-a-days starting Monday. This year, coaching staffs across the state will operate differently on Friday nights.

The UIL has implemented new rules allowing the use of in-game video and data technology.

It’s 2024, and with self-driving cars and artificial intelligence on the rise, it seems almost anything is achievable with a simple click. Technology is leaving its mark everywhere, including on the football field, even at the high school level.

This spring, the UIL rules committee, following a new NCAA rule, approved the use of video and data technology in the press box and locker room, though it remains prohibited on the sidelines.

Ray Zepeda, UIL Director, noted that “coaches and programs had resources such as cell phones some use of the tablets, laptops, etcetera. And that it might be wise to kind of go down the route of allowing use of technology in the press box and in the locker room and not directly attached to the playing field itself.”

With this technology, coaches can review video and chart data from the press box, share that information with sideline coaches during the game, and even review video with players in the locker room at halftime.

Don Hyde, La Vega head football coach, commented that, “most staffs are going to put best coaches in the press box because when you get through an offensive series, your offense coordinator, your offensive line coach or whatever, can you sit there and, and look at the tight wide end zone clips of the series just went through and it’s going to aid you and calling plays.”

“To be completely honest, I believe this opportunity will benefit everyone who embraces it. I’ve discussed with our players the potential value, but they must also learn to utilize it,” said Crawford head football coach Greg Jacobs.

However, for smaller schools, the decision to invest in this technology isn’t straightforward. Greg Jacobs, Crawford Coach, noted that budget constraints and staffing compared to larger schools are significant factors.

Ultimately, it’s up to the schools to implement the technology.

Ricky Beaty, Salado Coach, believes it “will be a game-changer if everything functions correctly.”

The first step is selecting a system, and the market is already saturated with companies offering the necessary products.

Don Hyde, La Vega Coach, was inundated with offers as soon as the UIL announced the changes, highlighting the aggressive business tactics in play.

The UIL has not partnered with any specific company, as Zepeda of UIL explains, because their role isn’t to engage with for-profit companies.

When it comes to implementing technology, most are aware that there is likely more to come. The concept of wearable technology, such as devices that would enable coaches to communicate with players through their helmets, has been tabled for the time being.

In Central Texas, there is openness among coaches towards the implementation of new strategies. However, there is a concern about their ability to keep pace with these changes.