Coach and Coordinator Podcast

In this week’s Game Planning Tips, Coach Keith Grabowski brings you three coaches with practical, teachable ideas you can use immediately in your game plan. Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation presents Game Planning Tips. On offense, Jason Mangone, Head Coach at Brockport, shows how to attack an odd front with a downhill inside zone plan. He explains box identification, numbering linebackers, handling movement, and preparing for the three pressures you must block to run the ball with confidence. On defense, Kevin Doherty, Defensive Coordinator at Georgetown, breaks down the Hoya Five-Star Plan — a clear, disciplined framework built on vision, standards, daily fundamentals, and the traits that define elite defensive play. On special teams, Dan Swanstrom, Head Coach at Cornell, covers the special situations that decide games: fair-catch and straddle rules, blocked punt scenarios, momentum plays, hands-team responsibilities, and end-of-game decisions every team must be ready for. Supporting pediatric brain tumor research and families affected by cancer through football. Learn more or register for this year’s clinics at laurensfirstandgoal.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Hansen Ratings D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week, presented by Tully, hosts Logan and John bring together three powerful coaching conversations that highlight the heart, craft, and leadership behind Division III football. The episode opens with Mary Hardin-Baylor OC Stephen Lee, who reflects on the mentors and experiences that shaped both his coaching identity and his “Frankenstein-type offense.” Lee shares how figures such as Vance Gibson, Phil Fuller, Don Cartho, and Pete Fredenberg influenced his approach, and why mentorship and personal growth remain cornerstones of his career. Next, Carthage DC Adam Weber discusses the challenge of simplifying defensive schemes while still maximizing player performance. Weber explains how flexibility and adapting to player strengths helped his unit “play really fast,” offering a grounded perspective on the evolving demands of modern defensive coaching. Finally, Geneva Head Coach Geno DeMarco dives into the deeper responsibilities of leadership, transparency, accountability, and the courage to face challenges head-on. DeMarco highlights the importance of open communication among staff, creating supportive environments, and taking responsibility when adversity strikes. Across offense, defense, and program leadership, this episode provides a multi-angle look at coaching philosophy, team dynamics, and the ongoing pursuit of excellence at the Division III level. Chapters Introduction by Logan and John; overview of the three featured coaches. Stephen Lee discusses his early coaching influences and foundational mentors. Lee breaks down his “Frankenstein type offense” and how his philosophy evolved over time. Insights from Lee on mentorship, growth, and the coaches who molded his career. Adam Weber explains the challenge of simplifying defensive schemes for player success. Weber talks about adapting strategies, collaborating with other coaches, and improving defensive speed. Weber reflects on player dynamics, flexibility in coaching, and continuous adjustment. Geno DeMarco introduces his leadership approach and the value of transparency among coaches. DeMarco discusses facing challenges, taking responsibility, and building trust within staff. Closing reflections from DeMarco on culture, accountability, and the future of coaching. Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski John Snell: @jsnellbwfb Logan Hansen: @LogHanRatings Stephen Lee: @coach_slee Adam Weber: @ACWEB33 Geno DeMarco: @genodemarcoHFC Presented by Tully — the perfect tool for high school and Division III programs. Tully helps coaches track readiness, performance, and player development so teams can stay strong and confident deep into the season. Learn more at tully.app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo episode, Keith Grabowski reflects on a powerful idea he discovered only recently when his son shared Rick Rubin’s book The Creative Act. What began as a conversation about hitting and baseball opened the door to a much larger truth about coaching and the offseason. Every winter and spring, coaches get flooded with ideas. Clinics, articles, cut-ups, and social feeds offer endless “solutions” and new ways to install, practice, and teach. Instead of clarity, the volume often leads to confusion. Keith breaks down the Rubin excerpt that stopped him in his tracks and explains how the principles of creativity apply directly to football coaching. He shares the lessons he learned over years of trial and error and why philosophy—not information—is the real filter that allows coaches to grow without becoming overwhelmed. You’ll leave this episode with a clear, practical way to approach the offseason, evaluate new ideas, and build a system grounded in what you believe, not what everyone else is doing. If you want to start the offseason with purpose, this episode will help you cut through the noise and create with clarity. See the video version on Spotify or at coachandcoordinator.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s Game Planning Tips, Coach Keith Grabowski brings you three coaches who show how clarity and intentional teaching create smarter, faster football in every phase of the game. On defense, John Loose, Associate Head Coach and Safeties Coach at Army West Point, breaks down his Cover 6 Toolbox and explains how moving stress — not adding calls — helps players play fast with clear rules. Learn how he adapts field and boundary coverage, manages 3x1 formations, and builds a structure that fits high school football. On offense, Matt Drinkall, Head Coach at Central Michigan, delivers one of the cleanest explanations of RPO football you’ll hear. His filter — Shorter, Faster, Simpler — keeps quarterbacks efficient and keeps the offense operating within its identity. Drinkall outlines what makes RPOs work, what often goes wrong, and how to package them into any system. On special teams, Pete Lembo, now the Head Coach at the University at Buffalo, shows why elite special teams start with top-down support. He details how head coach involvement, shared terminology, and organized teaching turn special teams from a transition period into a program-wide advantage. Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation funds pediatric brain tumor research and supports families affected by cancer through football. The foundation has raised over $3 million through clinics and events led by coaches nationwide. 👉 Learn more, donate, or register at laurensfirstandgoal.org 🌐 coachandcoordinator.com 📱 Follow @CoachKGrabowski Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Hansen Ratings D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week, presented by Tully, hosts Logan and John bring together three powerful conversations that highlight leadership, strategy, and personal development across Division III football. First, Delaware Valley OC Mike Isgro shares insights into the art of offensive strategy, emphasizing adaptability in play calling, red zone efficiency, and the importance of decision-making in creating consistent scoring opportunities. Next, Bethel HC/DC Mike McElroy dives into a coaching philosophy centered on cultivating potential in young athletes. He discusses how the right environment or “soil” - helps players and individuals grow stronger, more resilient, and better prepared to succeed both on and off the field. Finally, Hope College HC Peter Stuursma explores the human side of coaching through weekly player wellness surveys and open communication. He reflects on the responsibility coaches have to support athletes beyond the game - helping them navigate challenges and build habits that serve them throughout life. This episode captures what makes Division III football special: growth-minded coaches, programs rooted in care and accountability, and a shared commitment to developing great players and even better people. Chapters Introduction with Logan and John Mike Isgro on Offensive Strategy and Adaptability Scoring, Red Zone Focus, and Play Calling Philosophy Mike McElroy on Cultivating Growth in Young Players The Importance of Environment and Nourishment in Development Peter Stuursma on Player Well-Being and Leadership Beyond the Game Building Brotherhood and Accountability in Football Closing Reflections on Growth, Grit, and Coaching Purpose Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski John Snell: @jsnellbwfb Logan Hansen: @LogHanRatings Mike Isgro: @Coach_Isgro Mike McElroy: @McElroy26 Peter Stuursma: @PStuursm Tully: @TullyTracking Presented by Tully — the perfect tool for high school and Division III programs. Tully helps coaches track readiness, performance, and player development so teams can stay strong and confident deep into the season. Learn more at tully.app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of National Coach of the Week, presented by Modern Football Technology, we dive into a powerful conversation with Santavious Bryant, Head Coach at Grayson HS (GA), who breaks down how relationships form the foundation of team success. Coach Bryant emphasizes that genuine care between players and staff strengthens communication, opens the door to constructive criticism, and fuels personal growth on and off the field. He shares how intentional relationship-building - player to player, staff to staff, and across the entire program - creates an environment where athletes feel supported, accountable, and empowered to receive coaching. This episode highlights why connection, trust, and authentic communication remain at the heart of strong football cultures and sustained team development. Chapters Introduction to Grayson Rams’ Success Developing Players Through Relationships and Leadership How Connection Improves Communication and Coaching The Role of Care, Trust, and Constructive Criticism Growing Athletes On and Off the Field Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Santavious Bryant: @CoachSB_4theG Modern Football Technology: @modernFB Ready to gain an edge on game night? Modern Football Technology helps coaches make smarter real-time decisions with in-game analytics. It’s simple to get started, and you can be up and running by Friday night. Book a demo today and see the difference this week: https://www.modernfootball.com/demo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s Game Planning Tips presented by Lauren's First and Goal Foundation, Coach Keith Grabowski brings you insights from three coaches who define what championship preparation looks like across every phase of the game. On offense, Joe Moorhead, Head Coach at Akron, breaks down his red zone framework and RPO structure that create simplicity for the quarterback and conflict for the defense. Learn how he divides the field into planning zones and builds an aggressive yet efficient scoring approach. On defense, Mike Elko, Head Coach at Texas A&M, shares how great defenses are built on habits, not calls. His five non-negotiables — relentless effort, pursuit, tackling, ball disruption, and explosive-play prevention — define the culture that drives consistency. On special teams, Sean Saturnio, Special Teams Coordinator at Army West Point, details his ABCs of Punt Blocking: Attack, Block or Bust, and Capture the Field. His system focuses on pressure, discipline, and hidden yardage — treating punt block as the first offensive play. Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation supports pediatric brain tumor research and families affected by cancer through football. Since its founding, LFG has raised more than $2 million through clinics and events led by coaches nationwide. Learn more, donate, or register for this year’s clinic series at laurensfirstandgoal.org coachandcoordinator.com Follow @CoachKGrabowski Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Hansen Ratings D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week, presented by Tully, hosts Logan and John spotlight four outstanding Division III coaches who share how preparation, mindset, and strategy drive consistent performance on and off the field. First, Carnegie Mellon HC Ryan Larsen and OC Andy Helms discuss how practice efficiency, game simulation, and structured communication elevate their program’s offensive execution. They also detail how balancing academics with athletics keeps players focused and disciplined throughout the season. Next, Susquehanna DC Tim Kologrivov breaks down his philosophy of setting high expectations for players every day. He explains how treating each play as its own opportunity builds resilience and accountability — and how strategic thinking can elevate performance beyond physical ability. Finally, UW River Falls HC Matt Walker offers insights into game-day decision-making, exploring the connection between team dynamics, player psychology, and sports science. He reflects on how confidence and versatility influence strategy, and how success often depends on clear communication and trust within the team. Chapters Trends in D3 Football Carnegie Mellon’s Offensive Strategy and Practice Efficiency Balancing Academics and Athletic Preparation Tim Kologrivov on Defensive Mindset and Daily Expectations Developing Strategic Thinking Beyond Physical Talent Matt Walker on Game-Day Strategy and Team Dynamics Sports Science and Player Confidence in Decision Making Adapting Coaching Philosophy for Sustained Success Closing Reflections on Collaboration and Preparation Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski John Snell: @jsnellbwfb Logan Hansen: @LogHanRatings Ryan Larsen: @CoachRyanLarsen Andy Helms: @CoachAndyHelms Tim Kologrivov: @CoachKolo Matt Walker: @CoachWalkerRF Tully: @TullyTracking Presented by Tully — the perfect tool for high school and Division III programs. Tully helps coaches track readiness, performance, and player development so teams can stay strong and confident deep into the season. Learn more at tully.app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of National Coach of the Week, presented by Modern Football, Keith Grabowski sits down with Chris Greisen, head coach at West De Pere High School, to discuss how he’s built a football program defined by culture, accountability, and innovation. Coach Greisen shares how his team lives by the acronym GRIT — Grind, Responsibility, Intensity, and Trust — and how that mindset drives both player development and strong team chemistry. He also breaks down his approach to simplifying complex offensive concepts, teaching players to “flip the switch” with urgency, and promoting a staff culture built on shared ownership and leadership. Chapters Introduction and Coach Recognition Building a Unified Coaching Staff Defining GRIT: The Four Pillars of Culture Simplifying Offense for Player Success Innovative Play Calling and Team Execution Developing Leadership and Accountability Closing Reflections on Growth and Future Goals Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Chris Greisen: @CGQBAcademy Modern Football Technology: @modernFB Ready to gain an edge on game night? Modern Football Technology helps coaches make smarter real-time decisions with in-game analytics. It’s simple to get started, and you can be up and running by Friday night. Book a demo today and see the difference this week: https://www.modernfootball.com/demo Tune into Kegan Wirtz's Modern Football story mentioned in the podcast here: Kegan Wirtz Story Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of National Coach of the Week, presented by Modern Football, Keith Grabowski talks with Travis Dixon, Head Coach of Hamilton HS (AZ), about the essential role defense plays in his team’s success. Dixon highlights the preparation, strategy, and adaptability led by Coach Barrett, whose defensive unit challenges the offense daily—sharpening the team’s overall performance come game night. He explains how facing an elite defense in practice provides unique looks and situations that push the offense to grow, promoting a competitive culture built on preparation and teamwork. The conversation highlights how communication and collaboration between the coaching staff translates into consistent success on Fridays. Chapters Introduction to the Week’s Feature Travis Dixon on Defense and Team Growth Coach Barrett’s Preparation and Strategic Approach How Practice Challenges Translate to Game Success Complementary Football and Coach Collaboration Final Thoughts on Team Identity and Consistent Success Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Travis Dixon: @CoachDixonDBs Parker Barrett: @CoachPTBarrett Justin Garman: @coachgarman11 Modern Football Technology: @modernFB Ready to gain an edge on game night? Modern Football Technology helps coaches make smarter real-time decisions with in-game analytics. It’s simple to get started, and you can be up and running by Friday night. Book a demo today and see the difference this week: https://www.modernfootball.com/demo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices