From College Diamonds to Bushland’s Dugouts

Tayler Frye, affectionately called “Coach French Fry” by her players, has spent the past seven years coaching and shaping athletes. Currently leading Bushland High School’s softball team and junior high volleyball program, her journey has included coaching stints at Howard Payne University, Colorado Christian University, Eastern New Mexico, and West Texas High School.

One of her most memorable coaching moments came while at Eastern New Mexico, where her team defeated West Texas A&M in an incredible game. Whether facing tough opponents like UT Tyler in college or Coahoma in high school, Coach Frye’s passion for competition and growth has been a driving force in her career.

The Coach with Talent and a Twist

Coach Frye is a unique blend of understanding, assertive, and loyal, qualities her players admire most. She surprises her athletes with her hidden talents—like pitching faster now than she did in college and doing her own nails.

Her game-day ritual involves putting on her socks and shoes left before right, and her favorite pre-game meal is a McAlister’s Ham and Cheese Toastie with a bacon spud. Off the field, she enjoys scrolling through TikTok and listening to Texas Country music in her office.

For Coach Frye, coaching is about creating an environment where athletes feel supported and challenged to reach their full potential.

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Turning Players into Leaders

Coach Frye’s coaching philosophy is all about teamwork and selflessness. She believes, “It is not about you, it’s always about something bigger,” emphasizing the importance of working together to bring out each other’s strengths and build up weaknesses.

Her motto, “Play hard, give it all you have every day,” reflects her commitment to effort and accountability.

Inspired by advice she once received—“It’s not about the outcome of the game, it’s about creating wonderful women who have gratitude in every situation”—Coach Frye is dedicated to shaping her athletes into leaders both on and off the field.

This season, her goals are ambitious: going 10-0 in district and winning a state championship.

Bushland’s Secret to Success

For Coach Frye, the best part of coaching in Bushland is the drive her athletes have to win and improve. She values the way her players respond to belief and care, saying, “If you believe in them and show you care about them, they will run through walls for you.”

Her favorite drill, the diving cone drill, pushes her athletes to their limits, teaching them resilience and reaction under pressure. She also sees untapped potential in the Texas Panhandle softball scene and is excited to help elevate the sport in the region.

Through her leadership, Coach Frye continues to inspire her athletes and community to aim high and achieve greatness.