successful background. The Tech athletic director, himself, is from Sherman, Texas, home of Grayson CC, and just miles from Tadlock’s hometown of Denton, Texas. So, he knew Tadlock was a home run for Grayson. He also had heard plenty of good things about Tadlock from his time at Oklahoma, even though he and Tadlock didn’t officially cross paths while the two were employed by the Sooners.

Like any good athletic director, Hocutt listened while von Schamann and other Red Raiders players spoke in favor of Tadlock. Then, he became convinced of one thing: Tim Tadlock needed to be the next head coach of the Red Raiders.

Much of Tadlock’s success stems from strong relationships with his players. (TTU photo)

“We knew that Tim could have the same kind of impact ata proven winner at every step of the way in his career, he played for us and he bled Red and Black. Everything about the situation was unorthodox and unique, but I knew the man, and I knew he was a leader. It’s amazing how quickly things have happened under Tim’s leadership.

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J-Bob Thomas remembers the first time he met Tim Tadlock.

Thomas now serves as one of the nation’s premier assistants and recruiters and has been by Tadlock’s side during his tenure with the Red Raiders. But his interactions with Tadlock began as a high school player.

Thomas vividly remembers his high school interactions with Tadlock. He was recruited by Tadlock at Grayson, while also strongly considering Howard (Texas) College at the same time. Thomas visited Howard toward the end