Nearly Three Decades, State Titles, and the Power of a Handshake
Coach Isom started his career at Friona before becoming a fixture at Canadian.
His most memorable moments? The run of state championships from 2014 to 2020—an era of excellence for Canadian athletics.
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Game day always starts with a coaches’ handshake, and his toughest opponent has been the powerhouse Gunter Tigers.
Salsa, Plant Work, and the Value of Teaching
His favorite pre-game meal is Andy Copley’s Salsa, and if he weren’t coaching, he’d be working at the Phillips plant in Borger.
The best advice he’s received? “Put equal time into teaching and coaching. DO YOUR JOB.”
Understanding, Funny, Dependable
Coach Isom’s team would describe him as understanding, funny, and dependable.
The Natural is his favorite sports movie, and while he’s not big on social media, Instagram is the one he uses most. In his office, you’ll hear classic rock on Pandora, setting a laid-back, focused vibe.
Coaching Philosophy: Fairness, Honesty, and Growth
The biggest lesson sports have taught him? Failure can make you better.
His coaching motto: “You can’t treat every situation the same, but you can treat every situation honestly and fairly.”
He credits the Texas Panhandle’s sports scene to genuine, hard-working people and families who want their kids to succeed the right way.
Goals: Wins and Life Lessons
Coach Isom’s goals for the upcoming season? Win games and, just as importantly, help kids grow into productive citizens.
Coffee, Film Study, and One-on-One Drills
He’s a coffee drinker, prefers film study, and leans toward offense. His favorite drills are one-on-one receiver battles and post/guard combo drills. The best part about coaching in Canadian? Great kids, great coaches, and a great community.