

Coach and Coordinator Podcast
Keith Grabowski
Keith Grabowski interviews the most knowledgeable head coaches, coordinators, and position coaches from professional, college, and high school football. Keith and his guests discuss the philosophy, concepts, schemes, and strategies that they have learned throughout their careers. Each show includes a specific idea that can be applied to help coaches at every level find the winning edge.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 7, 2024 • 21min
Leadership - Van Malone, Assistant Head Coach, Kansas State
On today's episode, we're thrilled to welcome back Van Malone, the assistant head coach, passing game coordinator, and cornerbacks coach at Kansas State. Van has joined us before, and we're excited to have him return to dive into the topic of leadership and its development throughout the season. Coach Malone shares insights into Kansas State's unique approach to nurturing leadership within their team. We'll explore how they create leadership teams, the importance of cross-position bonding, and activities designed to develop and identify emerging leaders. Chapters
Developing Leadership Teams
Fostering Competition and Accountability
Building a Team Culture
Individual Story of Leadership Impact
Being the Thermostat of Leadership
Activities for Team Building
Importance of Small Group Discussions
Winning Edge
Support our Partners:Learn More about Modern Football Technology:Battle-tested, Modern Football’s platform provides real-time self-scout and opponent tendencies, while eliminating manual tagging into HUDL, DV Sport, and XOS. Trusted by teams at every level, see how top coaches leverage this platform for in-game decision-making and play-calling success. To book a demo, visit www.teammofo.com/demo. Mention Coach and Coordinator Podcast or use the coupon code CC10 when signing up for a demo to receive 10% off your first year.Learn more about Vertical Raise:Elevate your program's Online Fundraising to new heights Use Vertical Raise’s online fundraising system and raise more money in less time:https://verticalraise.com
Multiple fundraising solutions to fit all your program needs
Leverage best-in-class technology, texting & email deliverability.
An in-person local fundraising coach walks your team through every step of the process.
The 10% Tool Kit:Explore these pages for helpful tips, a winning edge, and special promotions for Coach and Coordinator Podcast listeners. Sign up for the Weekly Tip Sheet:Be sure to sign-up for our weekly newsletter. Every Tuesday morning, we email out our Weekly Tip Sheet Newsletter – the best ideas from recent Coach and Coordinator Podcast episodes, as well as additional coaching development resources and recommendations sourced specifically for the 10% Coach. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 5, 2024 • 19min
Developing Depth - Gary McGraw - Defensive Backs, Jenks High School (OK)
Developing Depth - Gary McGraw, Defensive Backs Coach, Jenks HS (OK)Today, our guest on this episode of our season series is Gary McGraw, now the defensive back and special team coordinator at Jenks High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Gary has coached at all levels of college football, has done an excellent job wherever he's been, and now comes back to the high school level after 20 years of being at the college level. So he will share some insight today into developing depth, developing your players, getting to the point where you have a next man up, and then being able to do some fun things like package your guys and work them into different situations and personnel groups. Chapters
Developing Depth and Progression Strategy
Importance of Next Man Up Mentality
Nurturing the Growth of Young Players
Maximizing Player Development on the Field
Evolving Depth and Matchup Strategies
Winning Edge
Related:Gary McGraw - Cornerback Techniques and Wearing Different HatsSupport our Partners:Thank you for supporting our partners:Learn More about Signature Championship Rings:Signature Championship Rings is a leading designer and supplier of championship rings, serving over 10,000 teams and organizations. With a focus on quality craftsmanship, easy team ordering processes, and affordability, Signature Champions celebrate every champion and their achievements, making their moment last a lifetime. For more information, visit www.signaturechampions.com/podcast.The 10% Tool Kit:Explore these pages for helpful tips, a winning edge, and special promotions for Coach and Coordinator Podcast listeners. Sign up for the Weekly Tip Sheet:Be sure to sign-up for our weekly newsletter. Every Tuesday morning, we email out our Weekly Tip Sheet Newsletter – the best ideas from recent Coach and Coordinator Podcast episodes, as well as additional coaching development resources and recommendations sourced specifically for the 10% Coach. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 1, 2024 • 19min
DaLawn Parrish - Westlake HS (VA)
In this episode of our Champions Series presented by Signature Championship Rings, we speak with DaLawn Parrish, the head coach at Westlake High School. In 2023, he won his sixth state championship at Wise High School.Coach Parrish shares his team building and leadership strategies for team camps, emphasizing camaraderie, trust, and discipline. He discusses the importance of communication, especially between quarterbacks and coaches, and highlights the formation of a leadership council to promote decision-making skills among players. Coach Parrish also reflects on adapting teaching methods for modern players and preparing them for life beyond football. Through fostering holistic growth and positive team dynamics, Coach Parrish aims to shape well-rounded individuals on and off the field.Chapters
Getting Started
Building Team Camaraderie
Establishing Leadership Council
Teaching Chain of Command
Adapting to Change
Beyond the Game
Continuous Improvement
Continuing Lessons Through Season
Winning Edge
Support our Partners:Thank you for supporting our partners:Learn More about Signature Championship Rings:Signature Championship Rings is a leading designer and supplier of championship rings, serving over 10,000 teams and organizations. With a focus on quality craftsmanship, easy team ordering processes, and affordability, Signature Champions celebrate every champion and their achievements, making their moment last a lifetime. For more information, visit www.signaturechampions.com/podcast.The 10% Tool Kit:Explore these pages for helpful tips, a winning edge, and special promotions for Coach and Coordinator Podcast listeners. Sign up for the Weekly Tip Sheet:Be sure to sign-up for our weekly newsletter. Every Tuesday morning, we email out our Weekly Tip Sheet Newsletter – the best ideas from recent Coach and Coordinator Podcast episodes, as well as additional coaching development resources and recommendations sourced specifically for the 10% Coach. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 31, 2024 • 16min
Get More Out of Scout Periods - Standards For Practice
This episode covers measuring practice success and developing good habits during the season. Emphasis is placed on aligning personnel within the system and making necessary adjustments. Key points include improving player performance, focusing on effort and execution, and setting standards for offensive practice. Maintaining tempo and efficiency and recognizing scout team players' efforts can enhance overall team performance. The goal is to establish clear standards, raise the bar as players progress, and create a structured practice approach for success in the upcoming season.Chapters
Developing Practice Habits for Success
Standards and Evaluation for Spring Practice
Emphasizing Tempo and Practice Efficiency
Utilizing Film and Measuring Progress
Recognizing Scout Team Efforts
Setting and Raising Practice Standards
Thank you for supporting our partners:Learn More about Signature Championship Rings:Signature Championship Rings is a leading designer and supplier of championship rings, serving over 10,000 teams and organizations. With a focus on quality craftsmanship, easy team ordering processes, and affordability, Signature Champions celebrate every champion and their achievements, making their moment last a lifetime. For more information, visit www.signaturechampions.com/podcast.The 10% Tool Kit:Explore these pages for helpful tips, a winning edge, and special promotions for Coach and Coordinator Podcast listeners. Sign up for the Weekly Tip Sheet:Be sure to sign-up for our weekly newsletter. Every Tuesday morning, we email out our Weekly Tip Sheet Newsletter – the best ideas from recent Coach and Coordinator Podcast episodes, as well as additional coaching development resources and recommendations sourced specifically for the 10% Coach. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 30, 2024 • 42min
Accelerate Everything - Mike Vannucci, Wide Receiver Coach
Mike Vannucci, owner of the Long Island Wide Receiver Academy, joins Db Maddox on this episode of Accelerate Everything. Coach Vannucci shares coaching insights emphasizing player development in wide receivers. He discusses common issues in route running, emphasizing proper footwork and body positioning for effective breaks. Mike explains drills such as stationary hip drops and live drills to simulate game situations, focusing on high-speed work for game readiness. He highlights the importance of analyzing defenders' tendencies for game preparation and stresses effective workload management for peak performance. Chapters
Discovering Patterns
Common Break Point Issues
Avoiding Indicators
Implementing Break Drills
Ground Contact Drill Misconceptions
Rhythm Element in Routes
Route Break Strategy
Steps in Break Points
Stance and Start Techniques
Understanding Reception Areas
Identifying Cover Defender Tendencies
Managing Player Substitutions
Perimeter Blocking Fundamentals
Recommended Receiver Watchlist
Accessing Training Resources
Winning Edge
Follow Coach Vannucci:https://x.com/WRCoachVannuccihttps://www.lireceiveracademy.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 29, 2024 • 27min
Perfect Effort, Physicality, and Cut the Face Tackling - Jess Loepp, Defensive Coordinator, UTSA
Jess Loepp, the Defensive Coordinator at UTSA, shares insights on aligning with Coach Jeff Traylor’s philosophy focusing on perfect effort and physicality. He discusses simplifying game plans for faster execution and emphasizes accountability in practice for optimal player performance. The podcast highlights a unique tackling technique called 'cut the face', designed to enhance hitting effectiveness and build confidence. Loepp also stresses the importance of collaborative coaching strategies to develop a strong defensive approach.

Jul 25, 2024 • 29min
Champions - Player Development in Camp - Tom Lombardo, Head Coach, St. Edward High School
In this episode of the Champions Series presented by Signature Championship Rings, Six-Time State Champion Tom Lombardo, head coach at Cleveland St. Edward High School, discusses the team's practice progression, focusing on OHSSA rules, acclimation days, and structured sessions covering various aspects of the game. The team's summer morning practice approach includes team meetings, on-field activities, film review, and weightlifting to optimize player development. Coach Lombardo shares insight on evaluating starters involving a balance of mental and physical attributes, with emphasis on situational football analysis. He puts a focus on Quarterback development centering on active participation in play selection, defensive reads, and adaptability based on opponents and game scenarios. St. Edward’s playoff success (180-0 under Tom Lombardo) is attributed to continuous improvement, strategic evolution, and player strengths, underscoring the team's commitment to growth and adaptation throughout the season.Chapters
Preparation for the Season
Structuring Summer Practices
Daily Practice Schedule
Mini Camp Wrap-Up
Determining Starters
Memories of Two-a-Days
Evaluating Player Development
Managing Veteran Players
Game Week Preparation
Quarterback Development
Simplifying Play Calls
Quarterback Film Study
Learning Team Identity
Winning Edge
Thank you for supporting our partners:Learn More about Signature Championship Rings:Signature Championship Rings is a leading designer and supplier of championship rings, serving over 10,000 teams and organizations. With a focus on quality craftsmanship, easy team ordering processes, and affordability, Signature Champions celebrate every champion and their achievements, making their moment last a lifetime. For more information, visit www.signaturechampions.com/podcast.The 10% Tool Kit:Explore these pages for helpful tips, a winning edge, and special promotions for Coach and Coordinator Podcast listeners. Sign up for the Weekly Tip Sheet:Be sure to sign-up for our weekly newsletter. Every Tuesday morning, we email out our Weekly Tip Sheet Newsletter – the best ideas from recent Coach and Coordinator Podcast episodes, as well as additional coaching development resources and recommendations sourced specifically for the 10% Coach. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 24, 2024 • 35min
The Flex Defense - Kevin May
Kevin May, the defensive coordinator at Seton Hill University, shares insights into their innovative defensive approach rooted in the flex defense in today's podcast. Coach May discusses evolving defensive strategies to stay ahead by tailoring systems to players and opponents. We talk about the importance of structure, player involvement, and adaptability in defensive tactics. Coach May explains their practice methods and versatility to confuse opposing offenses. We conclude with insights into game planning and the need to anticipate and adapt to opponent strategies. Chapters
Innovation and Flex Defense Origins
Exploring the Traditional Flex Defense Roots
Evolution of the Flex Defense to Own Identity
Impact of the Pandemic on Defensive Evolution
Utilizing Time During the Pandemic for Development
Reflecting on the Benefits of Pause and Study
Importance of Structure and Terminology in Defense
Embracing Hybrid Athletes in Defensive Planning
Developmental Success Stories in Defensive Program
Breakdown of Front Configuration and Player Roles
Implementing Circuit Teaching in Defensive Practice
Balancing Chaos and Clarity in Defensive Teaching
Game Planning Process for Defensive Coaches
Winning Edge
Support our Partners:Learn More about Modern Football Technology:Battle-tested, Modern Football’s platform provides real-time self-scout and opponent tendencies, while eliminating manual tagging into HUDL, DV Sport, and XOS. Trusted by teams at every level, see how top coaches leverage this platform for in-game decision-making and play-calling success. To book a demo, visit www.teammofo.com/demo. Mention Coach and Coordinator Podcast or use the coupon code CC10 when signing up for a demo to receive 10% off your first year.Learn More about Signature Championship Rings:Signature Championship Rings is a leading designer and supplier of championship rings, serving over 10,000 teams and organizations. With a focus on quality craftsmanship, easy team ordering processes, and affordability, Signature Champions celebrate every champion and their achievements, making their moment last a lifetime. For more information, visit www.signaturechampions.com/podcast.Learn more about Vertical Raise:Elevate your program's Online Fundraising to new heights Use Vertical Raise’s online fundraising system and raise more money in less time:https://verticalraise.com
Multiple fundraising solutions to fit all your program needs
Leverage best-in-class technology, texting & email deliverability.
An in-person local fundraising coach walks your team through every step of the process.
The 10% Tool Kit:Explore these pages for helpful tips, a winning edge, and special promotions for Coach and Coordinator Podcast listeners. Sign up for the Weekly Tip Sheet:Be sure to sign-up for our weekly newsletter. Every Tuesday morning, we email out our Weekly Tip Sheet Newsletter – the best ideas from recent Coach and Coordinator Podcast episodes, as well as additional coaching development resources and recommendations sourced specifically for the 10% Coach. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 23, 2024 • 56min
The Passing Lab - Screen System Strategy with Cameron Andersen, Head Coach, Burley HS (ID)
In this episode of The Passing Lab, Josh Herring interviewed Cameron Andersen, head coach at Burley High School, who shared his coaching journey rooted in his family's legacy. Coach Andersen discussed transitioning to high school football, emphasizing simplicity in offenses and implementing a unique system based on Dan Gonzalez's principles. He highlighted player development, trust, and the challenges of transfers in his coaching philosophy. The conversation explored coaching methodology, player development, offensive systems, and the importance of instilling confidence in young quarterbacks. The discussion delved into the strategic aspect of option screens in plays and detailed play design to maintain unpredictability for defenses. Chapters
Early Coaching Experience and Transition to Head Coach
Innovations in Tempo and Offensive Strategies
Evolution of Route Trees and Numbering System
Detailed Breakdown of Route Tree Numbers
Importance of Developing Quarterbacks
Introduction to Option Screens Philosophy
Learning from Offensive and Defensive Geniuses
Impact of Fast Tempo and Field Stretching
Defensive Coordinators' Challenges
Studying Offensive Strategies of NFL Coaches
Implementing Fast Motion in Screen Plays
Screen System Strategy
Innovative Offensive Plays
Game Day Preparation Insights
Winning Edge
Related Episode:Using the “Why” to Create High-Level Execution – Mike Peck, Offensive Coordinator, Burley High School (ID)Please Support Coach Herring:Coach Herring’s channel on CoachTube is a detailed library of resources to help you enhance your passing game. His Vol. 2 Crossing Routes is here. Coach Herring ResourcesSupport our Partners:Learn More about Modern Football Technology:Battle-tested, Modern Football’s platform provides real-time self-scout and opponent tendencies, while eliminating manual tagging into HUDL, DV Sport, and XOS. Trusted by teams at every level, see how top coaches leverage this platform for in-game decision-making and play-calling success. To book a demo, visit www.teammofo.com/demo. Mention Coach and Coordinator Podcast or use the coupon code CC10 when signing up for a demo to receive 10% off your first year.Learn more about Vertical Raise:Elevate your program's Online Fundraising to new heights Use Vertical Raise’s online fundraising system and raise more money in less time:https://verticalraise.com
Multiple fundraising solutions to fit all your program needs
Leverage best-in-class technology, texting & email deliverability.
An in-person local fundraising coach walks your team through every step of the process.
The 10% Tool Kit:Explore these pages for helpful tips, a winning edge, and special promotions for Coach and Coordinator Podcast listeners. Sign up for the Weekly Tip Sheet:Be sure to sign-up for our weekly newsletter. Every Tuesday morning, we email out our Weekly Tip Sheet Newsletter – the best ideas from recent Coach and Coordinator Podcast episodes, as well as additional coaching development resources and recommendations sourced specifically for the 10% Coach. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 22, 2024 • 28min
Developing and Using a Drill Catalog - Loren Endsley, Offensive Line Coach, Minnesota Duluth
In this episode of Coach and Coordinator, Loren Endsley, the offensive line coach at Minnesota Duluth, stresses the importance of a comprehensive drill catalog in enhancing player development and performance. By analyzing post-season performance, customizing drills to address player needs, and aligning with team strategies, coaches can optimize player readiness and competitiveness throughout the season. Tailoring drills to counter opponents' defensive tactics and fostering instinctive reactions in players are key strategies for maximizing in-game performance.Chapters
Analyzing Drill Catalog
Run Schemes and Drill Catalog
Addressing Personnel, Technique, and Schematic Issues
Developing Specific Drills for Issues
Transitioning to Chaotic Environment
Importance of Drill Progression
Using Drill Catalog During Season
Winning Edge
Support our Partners:Learn More about Modern Football Technology:Battle-tested, Modern Football’s platform provides real-time self-scout and opponent tendencies, while eliminating manual tagging into HUDL, DV Sport, and XOS. Trusted by teams at every level, see how top coaches leverage this platform for in-game decision-making and play-calling success. To book a demo, visit www.teammofo.com/demo. Mention Coach and Coordinator Podcast or use the coupon code CC10 when signing up for a demo to receive 10% off your first year.Learn more about Vertical Raise:Elevate your program's Online Fundraising to new heights Use Vertical Raise’s online fundraising system and raise more money in less time:https://verticalraise.com
Multiple fundraising solutions to fit all your program needs
Leverage best-in-class technology, texting & email deliverability.
An in-person local fundraising coach walks your team through every step of the process.
The 10% Tool Kit:Explore these pages for helpful tips, a winning edge, and special promotions for Coach and Coordinator Podcast listeners. Sign up for the Weekly Tip Sheet:Be sure to sign-up for our weekly newsletter. Every Tuesday morning, we email out our Weekly Tip Sheet Newsletter – the best ideas from recent Coach and Coordinator Podcast episodes, as well as additional coaching development resources and recommendations sourced specifically for the 10% Coach. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices