TEXARKANA MAGAZINE
That sense of mentorship is clear in his coaching staff as well. Brewster’s first hire as a college coach was hitting coach Wade Elliot, a former Sticks player who went on to play at the University of Missouri and Louisiana Tech before joining the Miami Marlins organization. “It is so awesome to get to hire a former player as my first hire as a college coach,” he said. Brewster’s favorite scripture is Luke 12:48, “To whom much is given, much is required.” “I wear a bracelet with that verse to remind myself every day that I asked to be in this position. Some days are going to be harder than others, but I have dreamed about being a college head coach my entire life.” Brewster’s coaching philosophy can be summed up in one phrase—“Add value.” “Organically, we talk about ‘adding value’ in our program, and that goes for players, coaches, and really anyone involved. That’s my favorite motto right now. I just want to add value any way I can to the university, the team, and the community.” As Chase Brewster continues to shape the TAMUT baseball program, his impact goes way beyond the diamond. The crack of the bat, the pop of the mitt, and the cheers from the stands are not just sounds of the game—they are echoes of the culture he is building. He is both a leader and a mentor. With his vision, the Eagles are not just building a winning team—they are fostering a legacy that will resonate in Texarkana baseball for years to come. (clockwise from top left) Genoa Central winning the 2014 state championship— Brewster’s second state championship in three years. Alisha and Chase Brewster pose with their pups, Cooper and Drake. Texarkana College Head Coach Will Bolt and Chase Brewster celebrate their 2010 conference championship victory.
baseball. He believes in a holistic approach, making sure that both players and their families are fully on board with the journey. “The recruiting board is a huge puzzle,” he explains. “If one piece doesn’t fit, then there are problems with the complete picture.” With a new athletic complex on the horizon, projected to be complete by next season, Brewster believes the best is yet to come for TAMUT baseball. The on-campus field will not only provide a home for the team but also bring the university community closer to the program. “I think the biggest effect it will have on our program is that students and faculty will know exactly when we are playing,” Brewster says. “It will be so awesome when students can walk right out of class and over to the field to watch us play. We want to build something that everyone is proud of, and the easiest way to do that is to let them see what we are doing up close.” When asked about the challenges of the job, Brewster remains optimistic. “I do not feel like there are any challenges. I get to go to work at my dream job, and I get to be a part of something bigger than myself every day. I’m a very glass-half-full kind of guy.” Beyond wins and losses, Brewster measures his success by the impact he has on his players’ lives. He takes pride in seeing former players build careers, start their families, and remain connected to the program. “I am getting older, and I’m starting to get invited to former players’ weddings, watching them start families. Getting to write a reference letter for someone who played for me years ago is the most rewarding thing ever.”
42
SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs