A Texas ex crafts a children’s book on UT football.

Texas Ex Writes UT Football Children’s Book: A Heartwarming Tale for Young Fans

In the world of college sports, few universities evoke the level of passion and dedication that the University of Texas (UT) does. Whether it’s the school’s storied football program, its winning traditions, or its impact on the state of Texas and beyond, the Longhorns’ legacy stretches far and wide. As a result, many former players stay deeply connected to their alma mater long after they’ve left the field. Some go on to successful careers in the NFL, while others remain involved in coaching, media, or philanthropy. However, one Texas Ex has chosen to pursue a different kind of legacy: a children’s book celebrating the spirit and culture of UT football.

Jordan Shipley, a former standout wide receiver for the Texas Longhorns, is the man behind this heartfelt project. Known for his incredible plays during his college years—particularly his memorable catches in the 2009 BCS Championship Game and his overall impact on the Longhorns’ offense—Shipley has become a beloved figure among Texas fans. But now, Shipley has taken on a new role: author.

His debut children’s book, titled “Touchdown, Texas!”, is a captivating and engaging tale that brings the spirit of Texas football to life for a younger audience. Combining his passion for the game, his love for his alma mater, and his desire to inspire the next generation of fans, Shipley’s book is set to become a go-to favorite for kids and parents alike, particularly those with ties to the UT football program.

In this article, we’ll explore Jordan Shipley’s journey from a star wide receiver to an author, the inspiration behind his book, and what makes “Touchdown, Texas!” so special for young readers. We’ll also take a closer look at how his deep connection to Texas football, along with his personal experiences, influenced the creation of this one-of-a-kind book.

Jordan Shipley: From Star Receiver to Author

Jordan Shipley’s rise to stardom as a wide receiver at the University of Texas was meteoric. He arrived in Austin as part of the 2004 recruiting class, joining a team that would go on to become one of the most celebrated in Longhorns history. Over his four seasons at Texas (2004-2009), Shipley became known for his exceptional speed, precise route running, and ability to make clutch catches in big moments. He formed a formidable duo with quarterback Colt McCoy, helping the Longhorns reach the pinnacle of college football.

One of Shipley’s most memorable moments came in the 2009 BCS National Championship Game, where his performance was pivotal in helping Texas push past Alabama in one of the most thrilling games in college football history. Shipley finished his Texas career as the program’s all-time leader in receiving yards and receptions, earning numerous honors and accolades along the way. His success at Texas helped propel him into a brief but successful NFL career, playing for the Cincinnati Bengals and the Tennessee Titans.

However, after his time in the NFL, Shipley returned to Austin and began focusing on new ventures, including giving back to the community and exploring ways to engage with younger generations. Through his outreach efforts, Shipley noticed the lack of children’s books that celebrated college football and the unique culture surrounding the sport, particularly in Texas. Inspired by his own experiences as a player, mentor, and father, Shipley decided to create a book that would bring the joy of football—and specifically Texas Longhorns football—to young readers.

With a background rooted in the passion and pride of Texas football, Shipley was uniquely positioned to create a book that would not only entertain but also instill important lessons in kids. He sought to connect children with the excitement and energy of the game, while also providing them with a sense of pride in their school and the values that the sport teaches.

The Inspiration Behind “Touchdown, Texas!”

In crafting “Touchdown, Texas!” Shipley sought to create a book that celebrated the joy, camaraderie, and teamwork that football provides. While Texas football is known for its competitive nature and legendary players, it is also about fostering community, discipline, and a sense of belonging. For Shipley, this was an opportunity to pass on these values to the next generation of fans.

When asked about his inspiration, Shipley shared that the book came from his deep love for Texas and the emotional connection he has with the school’s football program. “The spirit of Texas football runs deep,” Shipley said in a recent interview. “It’s more than just the games; it’s about the community, the history, and the pride we feel every time we put on that burnt orange jersey. I wanted to share that feeling with kids, in a way that they could understand and get excited about.”

At its core, “Touchdown, Texas!” is about a group of young kids who dream of playing for their favorite football team. The book follows their journey, from training and practicing to playing in a big game under the bright lights of Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium. Along the way, the young players learn about teamwork, resilience, and the power of believing in themselves. The story focuses on both the joys and challenges of being part of a football team, while celebrating the special bond that comes with wearing the Texas Longhorns jersey.

Shipley’s personal journey as a Texas player also deeply influenced the way he approached the book. As a former player who understood the highs and lows of college football, he wanted to make sure that the book was not just about the game itself but about what it means to be part of something larger than oneself. The book emphasizes teamwork and perseverance, showcasing how success is built on the collective effort of all involved, from the players to the coaches to the fans cheering them on.

“Touchdown, Texas!”: The Plot and Key Themes

“Touchdown, Texas!” centers on a young group of football players, each with their own aspirations and challenges. They are united by their love for the game and their shared goal of playing for the Texas Longhorns. Through the narrative, Shipley introduces children to the concept of hard work, practice, and the importance of staying focused on the goal.

The central character in the story is Max, a young boy who dreams of one day wearing the famous burnt orange jersey and playing for the Longhorns. Alongside his friends, Max trains tirelessly, pushing himself to improve with each practice. But as the group faces obstacles—such as self-doubt, tough opponents, and the rigors of training—they must rely on each other to stay motivated. The story culminates in a thrilling game, where the team faces a tough challenge and must work together to secure a victory.

The book is written in a way that is accessible to younger readers, with simple language and vibrant illustrations that capture the excitement of the game. The illustrations by local artist Jesse Garcia are dynamic, filled with action-packed scenes that bring the football field to life. Children will be able to visualize the plays, the crowd cheering, and the emotions of the characters as they work toward their goals.

Throughout the book, Shipley weaves in subtle messages about leadership, friendship, and sportsmanship. He emphasizes the importance of not giving up, no matter how difficult the journey may seem. Max’s journey is one of self-discovery, as he learns that true success comes not from individual glory, but from the strength of the team.

Why “Touchdown, Texas!” Is Special for Young Fans

“Touchdown, Texas!” holds special significance for young fans of the Texas Longhorns, as it introduces them to the world of college football while also nurturing a deep connection to the Longhorns program. The book goes beyond football—it encourages young readers to chase their dreams, believe in themselves, and understand the importance of hard work and determination.

For parents and caregivers, the book is a valuable tool for teaching children important life lessons in a way that is both entertaining and relatable. By drawing from his own experiences and the legacy of Texas football, Shipley provides a book that not only entertains but also inspires.

Moreover, for those who have followed the Longhorns for years, the book serves as a beautiful tribute to the team and the culture that has come to define it. It’s a way for fans to share their love for the program with younger generations, passing on the tradition and pride that comes with being part of the Longhorns family.

The Impact of Shipley’s Book on the Community

Jordan Shipley’s decision to write a children’s book about Texas football is more than just a personal project. It’s a way for him to give back to the community that supported him throughout his career. The book is a celebration of the spirit of Texas football and serves as a reminder of the bond that ties fans, players, and alumni together.

Through “Touchdown, Texas!”, Shipley has created a resource that will not only entertain young readers but also help instill valuable lessons about sportsmanship, perseverance, and the importance of working together. As the book gains popularity, it’s likely to become a staple in homes, classrooms, and local libraries across the state.

For Texas football fans, “Touchdown, Texas!” offers a unique and exciting way to share the magic of Longhorns football with the next generation of fans. With its engaging storyline, inspirational messages, and connection to the rich history of Texas football, Shipley’s book is poised to leave a lasting impact on both young readers and the Texas football community.