On this episode of East Texas Sports Now, new Sabine Cardinals athletic director and head football coach Tim Russell joins the show to talk about his move to Sabine and the challenge of leading the Cardinals into a new era.

Russell discusses how the opportunity at Sabine came together, the relationships and connections that helped make the move possible, and why he believes the school, community, administration, and athletes are ready to take steps forward. He also talks about the importance of fit when taking a coaching job and why Sabine felt like the right place at the right time.

The conversation dives into Russell’s approach to building a coaching staff, including the addition of coordinators Chris Jones and Aaron Slaughter, as well as the importance of hiring coaches who love kids, fit the culture, and can help develop young athletes both on and off the field. Russell also explains why being an athletic director means supporting every sport, not just football, and why showing up for student-athletes matters.

Looking ahead, Russell breaks down the process of rebuilding a Sabine football program coming off a winless season. He talks about focusing on fundamentals, honesty, effort, competition, and helping players see their own potential. He also discusses the Cardinals’ tough district, which includes Atlanta, Gladewater, Tatum, White Oak, Liberty-Eylau, and Sabine, and why the team’s focus will be on taking everything one day, one practice, and one game at a time.

Russell also reflects on his coaching journey, including his long tenure at Harmony, time at Pine Tree, and recent run at Grace Community. He shares the biggest lessons he has learned as a head coach, including the importance of toughness, relationships, servanthood, and building young men who are prepared for challenges beyond football.