Burn the boats
“Burn the boats” is a phrase that signifies a point of no return — a moment when a person commits fully to a goal by eliminating any possibility of retreat. The phrase is often linked to Hernan Cortes, who, upon landing in the Americas, ordered his men to destroy their ships. There would be no turning back. In modern business and leadership circles, it represents eliminating “Plan B” in order to focus entirely on the mission at hand.
A few weeks ago, after winning the district championship and qualifying 20 wrestlers for the 4A State Tournament, the staff and athletes of the 2026 THS Wrestling Team adopted this phrase. What began as a lighthearted rally cry — “Operation Burn the Boats” — quickly became something more. It became a shared commitment: there is no Plan B. There is only forward — together — with full effort, sharp focus, and full hearts.
As I felt the energy building around this rally cry, I realized it was important to clearly define what it looks and sounds like. I can say with complete confidence that I have never had a postseason team so locked in and in sync during the final days leading up to state. I learned long ago that it is difficult for athletes to hit a target if they cannot clearly see it. So here is what success looks like for “Operation Burn the Boats”:
Maximum effort and focus in every block of every practice leading up to state — all we need is your best.
Commitment and discipline in personal recovery and weight management.
Gratitude — finding a way each day to thank a teammate, coach, staff member, or family member.
Competing without fear — you are loved, you are well-trained, and you are prepared to do your best.
These standards align closely with our team’s core values. Yet over the past two weeks, these twenty young men have demonstrated a level of buy-in and commitment that I have not experienced in 25 years of coaching. There is something powerful about shared energy — a unified group moving forward with common values and a shared purpose.
Each season is different. Every state team has its own story to tell as the tournament unfolds. After 25 trips to Mat Classic, I have learned this: belief in yourself and love for your teammates matter more than the sharpest leg attack or the toughest arm bar series. Don’t get me wrong — our boys are physically prepared to fight in every position. But the mental and emotional edge they are carrying right now is something special.
This morning, just two days before the state tournament, I watched our team come together in a way I won’t forget. They were laughing and competing in dodgeball like little boys on a playground, then moments later completely locked in during explosive attack drills and short live goes. Joy and intensity. Brotherhood and focus. That balance is rare.
I am incredibly proud of how this team has embraced our process and our teaching. I am proud of the way these young men have done the hard things — consistently and with purpose. I am excited to walk into the dome with them on Thursday morning, ready to bring our best selves to the final tournament of the year. And I am grateful for the opportunity to coach this team one last time in 2026.
Go Bears.
#BurnTheBoats