The Texas High School Coaches Association (THSCA) announced on October 1 that it has formed a new partnership with Walmart as the official sponsor of the THSCA Academic All-State Teams.

“We recognize that balancing academics with athletics can be a challenge for student-athletes,” said the press release. “The Academic All-State Award honors senior student-athletes who demonstrate exceptional commitment both in the classroom and in competition. As one of THSCA’s most prestigious honors, this award recognizes students from fourteen different U.I.L. sports, who excel in three categories: GPA, class rank, and ACT/SAT performance. These honorees embody the hard work, discipline, and dedication that both THSCA and Walmart strive to inspire in young people across Texas.”

“Having Walmart join as the Academic All-State Award sponsor reinforces our commitment to supporting athletes’ academic success and celebrating their hard work,” said Joe Martin, Executive Director of the THSCA. “We are excited to kick off this partnership with Walmart as we work together to help our Texas athletes thrive in the classroom.”

“Walmart is honored to support the THSCA Academic All-State Award and the outstanding student-athletes who are shaping the future of Texas,” said Erik Hingst, Senior Manager – Walmart Community Relations. “These students represent the best of their schools and communities, and we’re proud to join THSCA in recognizing their accomplishments.”

With Walmart’s support, the Academic All-State Award will continue to honor 20,000+ deserving students across Texas each year, emphasizing that classroom excellence is just as vital as athletic achievement.

The partnership between Walmart and THSCA underscores a shared commitment to education, leadership, and the lifelong impact of high school athletics, the press release said.

Find more information about the THSCA Academic All-State Teams here: https://www.thsca.com/academic-all-state/.

About the Texas High School Coaches Association

The Texas High School Coaches Association (THSCA) is the principal advocate and leadership organization for Texas high school coaches. Dedicated to “Helping Coaches Help Kids,” THSCA provides high-quality representation, education, and services to Texas coaches and their affiliate members. Learn more at www.thsca.com.

About Texas High School Coaches Education Foundation

The Texas High School Coaches Education Foundation develops resources from a broad range of donors to fund professional education programs that strengthen and enhance the professionalism of high school and middle school coaches in Texas. These programs positively impact the lives of more than 1.5 million student-athletes annually.

About Walmart in Texas

Walmart Inc. (NYSE: WMT) in Texas serves customers at 592 retail units and online through Walmart Online Grocery and Walmart.com. The companys employ over 176,000 associates in Texas. Walmart supports local businesses, spending $106.8 billion with Texas suppliers in fiscal year 2025 and supporting over 219,404 Texas supplier jobs. Walmart continues to be a leader in employment opportunity, sustainability, and corporate philanthropy. In fiscal year 2024, Walmart and the Walmart Foundation contributed more than $159 million in cash and in-kind donations to local nonprofits in Texas.