
Coach and Coordinator Podcast
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.
Latest episodes

Feb 6, 2025 • 1h 7min
Champions - Aligning Staff for the Year Ahead - Spencer Emerson, Kyle Schmitt
In a riveting discussion, Spencer Emerson, head coach at Falmouth High School, and Kyle Schmitt, a three-time MIAA champion coach, dive into the critical importance of aligning coaching staff. They share insights on hiring for character, establishing core values, and maintaining effective communication. The duo emphasizes the need for clarity in roles to build trust and a competitive culture. They also touch on game day operations and the significance of creating a long-term vision, proving that success is grounded in team dynamics and shared goals.

Feb 3, 2025 • 58min
Student of the Game - A Coaching Odyssey - Chet Walters, Head Coach, The Conrad Schools of Science (DE)
Student of the Game - A Coaching Odyssey - Chet WaltersIn this episode of Student of the Game, host Caleb sits down with Chet Walters, head coach of Conrad Schools of Science in Delaware, for an in-depth conversation on coaching, strategy, and continuous growth.Chet shares his journey, detailing how his passion for learning has shaped his coaching philosophy. He discusses the challenges of implementing new strategies, evaluating concepts, and navigating the high school football landscape. Chapters
Coaching Journey
Student of the Game Mentality
Information Gathering and Implementation
Implementing Option Routes in High School Football
The Wizard Receiver: A Case Study in Skill Development
Commitment to a Scheme: Overcoming Doubts and Challenges
Evaluating Success: The Importance of Reflection and Adjustment
Less is More: Focusing on Core Concepts for Improvement
Teaching the Game: The Role of Education in Player Development
Backyard Awareness: Instilling Game Sense in Players
Artistry in Coaching: Embracing Creativity and Learning
The Process of Improvement: Analyzing Past Performance
Finding Balance: Knowing When to Simplify and Focus
The Journey of a Coach: Learning from Experience and Growth
Support our Partners:Modern Football TechnologySignature Championship RingsTitan GPSResources from Caleb Corrill:Layering Your Base Concepts with Formation DistortionPost Snap Route Adjustments and Corresponding Pass Concepts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 31, 2025 • 1h 5min
Champions - Setting Goals and Building Accountability- Jake Corbin, Mike Reed, Trevon Pendleton
In this episode of the Champion Series, coaches discuss the critical importance ofsetting clear and measurable goals for championship programs. They shareinsights on how to align these goals with their program's mission, buildsystems of accountability, and foster a culture of effort and leadership amongplayers. The conversation emphasizes the significance of focusing on the process rather thanjust outcomes, and how to measure growth and success both on and off the field.In this conversation, coaches discuss the importance of building a strongculture within sports programs, the challenges of transforming losing teamsinto winning ones, and the role of adversity in fostering growth and resilienceamong athletes. They emphasize the need for measurable goals and the significance of handlingadversity in practice to prepare athletes for real-game situations. The discussion highlights the shared experiences and strategies that have led tosuccess in their respective programs, underscoring the value of hard work,commitment, and a unified team mentality. Chapters:
Building Championship Programs: The Power of Goals
The Role of Accountability in Coaching
Creating a Winning Culture in Football
From Goals to Growth: Coaching Strategies
Leadership and Effort: Keys to Team Success
Measuring Success Beyond Wins and Losses
Here are our Champions for today’s episode:Jake Corbin (Choctaw Yellow Jackets Head Coach)Mike Reed (Gordon Longhorns Head Coach)Trevon Pendleton (Ironton Fighting Tigers Head Coach)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 your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 29, 2025 • 49min
Enhancing Team Culture and Creating a Positive Experience - Nick Esayian, CEO, LIGHT Helmets
In this episode of the Coach and Coordinator Podcast, host Keith Grabowski talks with Nick Esayian, CEO of LIGHT Helmets, about creating a culture that prioritizes both player safety and performance. Nick shares that choices can reflect a team’s values, enhance the player experience, and strengthen the overall culture of the program.They explore how LIGHT Helmets is designed with players, coaches, and families in mind—offering lightweight, high-performance helmets that reduce fatigue and improve safety while maintaining affordability. Nick highlights the importance of listening to feedback from players and coaches to continuously refine designs that meet the needs of athletes, from youth leagues to the NFL.Chapters
Safety and Performance
The Evolution of Football Helmets
Choosing the Right Helmet: A Coach's Perspective
Innovations in Helmet Design and Fitment
The Importance of Weight and Safety in Helmets
The Role of Technology in Helmet Safety
The Impact of Helmet Design on Player Safety
Player Experience and Feedback on New Helmets
The Role of Families in Football Safety
Advancements in Helmet Technology and Player Advocacy
Support our Partners:Modern Football TechnologySignature Championship RingsTitan GPSThe Headset Apptakeaways
Building a program prioritizes both safety and performance.
Technology in helmets has evolved significantly over time.
Weight reduction in helmets can enhance player performance.
Coaches should prioritize player health when selecting equipment.
The importance of fitment in helmet design cannot be overstated.
Innovative helmet designs can reduce injury risk.
Safety and performance can coexist in helmet technology.
Understanding the dynamics of concussions is crucial for coaches.
The Guardian Cap raises questions about added weight and safety.
Collaboration with medical professionals is essential for helmet development. The Guardian helmet was developed in response to rising concussions.
Weight reduction in helmets can significantly impact player safety.
Player feedback is crucial in the design and functionality of helmets.
Families play a vital role in advocating for player safety.
Advancements in helmet technology can lead to better performance on the field.
The importance of aesthetics in helmet design affects player acceptance.
Football participation rates are beginning to rise again after a decline.
Competition among helmet manufacturers drives innovation and safety improvements.
The role of coaches and parents is essential in promoting safe football practices.
The conversation around football safety must include all stakeholders, including players, families, and manufacturers.
titles
Balancing Safety and Performance in Football
The Future of Football Helmets
Innovations in Player Safety Equipment
Understanding Helmet Technology for Coaches
Welcome to another episode of the Coach and Coordinator Podcast. i’m Keith Grabowski and today I will be talking Nick Esayian, CEO of LIGHT Helmets, about creating a culture that prioritizes both player safety and performance. While Nick and I will get into the technology in today’s helmets, this really is a conversation that highlights how every decision we make for our program has an effect on the culture and the experience we create for our players and their families.I’ve been following what LIGHT Helmets has been doing for some time now and their innovations. They have the #1 ranked helmet as rated by Virginia Tech Helmet ratings Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 27, 2025 • 42min
Student of the Game - Coaching, Connection, and Growth - Trevor Browder, Analyst, Tennessee Titans
In this episode of the Student of the Game, host Caleb Corrill is joined by Trevor Browder, now an analyst for the Tennessee Titans. They discuss Trevor's unique coaching journey, from high school to college football, and his experiences shaping his coaching philosophy. Trevor emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, building relationships, and self-assessment in coaching. He shares insights on implementing new ideas within established systems and the balance between studying oneself and learning from others. The conversation highlights the significance of relationships in coaching and the value of helping others while climbing the coaching ladder.Chapters
Background of Trevor Browder
Trevor's Coaching Journey and Experiences
Learning and Growth in Coaching
Curiosity and Continuous Learning in Coaching
Self-Assessment and Offseason Preparation
Evaluating Offense and Personnel
Implementing New Ideas in Established Systems
The Importance of Relationships in Coaching
Balancing Self-Study and External Learning
Building a Personal Playbook for Future Opportunities
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Support our Partners:Modern Football TechnologySignature Championship RingsTitan GPSResources from Caleb Corrill:Layering Your Base Concepts with Formation DistortionPost Snap Route Adjustments and Corresponding Pass Concepts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 24, 2025 • 51min
Champions - Defining Your Championship Culture - John Kelley, Brian Kennedy, Todd Wilkerson
In this first episode of our 2025 Champions Series presented by Signature Championship Rings, three state champion coaches discuss the importance of building a strong team culture, transitioning coaching styles, and the significance of physical preparation and leadership development in football. They share personal experiences and strategies for facilitating communication with players, establishing a winning culture, and utilizing film analysis for continuous improvement.The coaches share their experiences and strategies for improving player accountability, enhancing practice routines, and fostering a positive team culture. Here are our Champions for today’s episode:John Kelley, Head Coach, Quince Orchard, Maryland 4A State ChampionBrian Kennedy, Head Coach, Bishop Watterson, Ohio Division 3 State ChampionTodd Wilkerson, Head Coach, Heritage Hills, Indiana 3A State ChampionChapters:
Introduction to the Champion Series
Building a Strong Team Culture
Transitioning Coaching Styles
Establishing Communication with Players
The Importance of Physical Preparation
Leadership Development in Football
Film Analysis and Continuous Improvement
Grading Performance and Accountability
Film Study: A Tool for Improvement
Cultural Shifts in Practice Routines
Adapting Traditions for Modern Needs
Innovative Film Analysis Techniques
Community Engagement Through Film Sessions
Building a Culture of Accountability
Staff Development and Continuous Learning
Navigating Staff Dynamics and Culture
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.Support Our Partners + Offers for Our Listeners:10% Tool KitCoach and Coordinator pledges to source the latest and greatest products and services available in the coaching marketplace. We call this repository The 10% Toolkit for The 10% Coach. These resources are proven to help coaches win games and achieve all program objectives. Think of it as a buyers guide for vendors and suppliers we trust with our seal of certification. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 22, 2025 • 59min
The Evolution of Sprint-Based Football at Randolph-Macon College - Pedro Arruza, Head Coach
In this episode of the Sprint Base Football Podcast presented by Titans Sensors, host Tony Holler speaks with Pedro Arruza, head coach at Randolph-Macon College, about adopting sprint-based football principles. Arruza discusses how the pandemic led to a shift toward low-volume, high-impact practices that prioritize player health and performance. They explore the challenges of changing traditional coaching mindsets, the importance of injury prevention, and strategies for building a positive team culture that attracts recruits. Arruza highlights the need for player responsibility and a fun, competitive training environment. The conversation also covers mental and physical health, effective communication, innovative practice methods, sprint training, recovery, and the role of sleep and mental health in performance.Chapters:
Introduction to Sprint Based Football at Randolph-Macon College
Evolution of Coaching Philosophy and Practices
Adapting to Change: The Impact of the Pandemic
Revolutionizing Practice: Low Volume, High Impact
Injury Prevention and Health Management
Recruitment Strategies and Team Culture
The Importance of Mindset and Player Responsibility
Building a Competitive Edge in College Football
The Importance of Mental and Physical Health in Sports
Building Trust and Communication with Players
Adapting Training Based on Player Feedback
Rethinking Practice: Quality Over Quantity
Innovative Training Methods: Less Tackling, More Speed
The Science of Sprinting and Recovery
Tailoring Training to Individual Needs
The Counterintuitive Approach to Conditioning
Organizing Effective Practices for Game Readiness
The Role of Sleep and Mental Health in Performance
Support our Partner: Titan GPSFounded and based in Texas, Titan GPS is your key to sprint-based football success. Designed specifically for high school football, Titan tracks the metrics that matter, like top speed, explosive acceleration, and even the powerful 'truck stick'—speed times weight for the ultimate performance insight. Whether it’s optimizing practice, spotlighting players with 3D highlights, or giving recruiters verified in-game stats, Titan delivers. And with no minimums to get started, Titan walks you through every step. Message them on X @titansensor to learn more. Titan GPS—performance measured, potential unlocked.”https://www.titansensor.com/DM Titan:https://x.com/titansensorRegister for the upcoming TFC event in Nashville, Tennessee:https://store.simplifaster.com/product/sprint-based-football-brentwood-tn-single-tix/Connect:https://x.com/pntrackhttps://x.com/RMCfootballhttps://x.com/CoachKGrabowskiResources On CoachTube:Sprint-Based Football BundleFeed the Cats Football BundleTFC Sprint-Based Football Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 21, 2025 • 1h 29min
The Think Tank - Creating Defensive Structure - Grant Caserta, Mike Fox, Eric Kasperowicz
In this episode of the Think Tank presented by Modern Football Technology, three defensive coaches discuss the importance of creating a structured terminology that is easy for players to learn while providing the necessary tools for effective game planning. Ferris State Linebacker Coach Grant Caserta, SUNY Brockport Defensive Coordinator Mike Fox, and Mars HS (PA) Head Coach Eric Kasperowicz join the Think Tank to share their insight.They explore strategies for adjusting coverage based on offensive formations, the use of wristband systems for communication, and the need to simplify complex defensive calls. The conversation also explores the significance of dictating play through defensive strategies and adapting to various offensive looks, culminating in a discussion on disguising coverage and pre-snap movement. Chapters
Defensive Structure and Terminology
Game Planning Against Top Offenses
Adjusting Coverage Based on Offensive Formations
Wristband Systems and Communication
Simplifying Complex Defensive Calls
Dictating Play with Defensive Strategies
Adapting to Offensive Looks
Disguising Coverage and Pre-Snap Movement
Defensive Structure and Flexibility
Adapting to Offensive Strategies
Empty Set Adjustments
Organizing the Call Sheet
Simplifying Defensive Calls
Offensive Strategies and Adaptability
Defensive Game Planning and Adjustments
Blitzing Techniques and Third Down Strategies
Philosophies on Box vs. Spill Defense
About Modern Football TechnologyBattle-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.Resources from our panelists on CoachTube:Grant Caserta - Championship LB PlayGrant Caserta - Building a Championship LB Drill MenuGrant Caserta - Ferris State Championship Defense - A Unique Twist on the 4-3Mike Fox - Stick CoverageEric Kapserowicz Resources (13 courses) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 16, 2025 • 43min
Student of the Game - Collaboration in Coaching - Pete Sterbick, Head Coach, Colorado School of Mines
Student of the Game - Collaboration in Coaching - Pete Sterbick, Head Coach, Colorado School of MinesIn this episode of Student of the Game, Pete Sterbick shares insights into his coaching philosophy, emphasizing the importance of being a student of the game, the need for constant evolution in offensive strategies, and the value of collaboration. He discusses how to effectively game plan, adapt plays, and learn from mistakes, while also providing valuable advice for young coaches on how to connect with their players and enhance their coaching effectiveness.Chapters
The Importance of Being a Student of the Game
Evolving Offensive Strategies
Collaboration and Team Dynamics
Game Planning and Adaptation
Innovative Play Design and Execution
Balancing Creativity and Practicality
Learning from Mistakes and Adjustments
Advice for Young Coaches
Support our Partners:Modern Football TechnologySignature Championship RingsTitan GPS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 15, 2025 • 58min
Sprint-Based Football-The Critical Role of Speed in Success-Dan Quesenberry, S&C Coach, Ravenwood HS(TN)
In this episode of Sprint-Based Football presented by Titan Sensors, Tony Holler interviews Dan Quesenberry from Ravenwood High School (TN), discussing the implementation of sprint-based football training. They explore the evolution of training methods, the importance of speed and strength, and how to create a positive practice environment that attracts athletes. The conversation emphasizes the need for education among players and parents about the benefits of a performance-based approach, redefining what hard work means in athletic training. They explore how speed metrics can indicate athlete health and performance, the role of RPR in injury prevention, and the upcoming Sprint-Based football Clinic. Chapters
Introduction to Sprint-Based Football and Ravenwood High School
Transitioning to Sprint-Based Training
Implementing Speed and Strength Training
Game Speed vs. Practice Speed
Educating Players and Parents
Creating a Positive Practice Environment
Redefining Hard Work in Training
Redefining Hard Work in Coaching
Maximizing Athlete Participation and Enjoyment
The Importance of Speed in Football
Identifying and Developing Elite Athletes
Maintaining Speed and Health Throughout the Season
The Relationship Between Speed and Toughness
Monitoring Health Through Speed Metrics
The Role of RPR in Injury Prevention
Upcoming Sprint-Based Football Clinic
The Evolution of Coaching Practices
The Future of Sprint-Based Football
Resources On CoachTube:Sprint-Based Football BundleFeed the Cats Football BundleTFC Sprint-Based FootballSupport our Partner: Titan GPSFounded and based in Texas, Titan GPS is your key to sprint-based football success. Designed specifically for high school football, Titan tracks the metrics that matter, like top speed, explosive acceleration, and even the powerful 'truck stick'—speed times weight for the ultimate performance insight. Whether it’s optimizing practice, spotlighting players with 3D highlights, or giving recruiters verified in-game stats, Titan delivers. And with no minimums to get started, Titan walks you through every step. Message them on X @titansensor to learn more. Titan GPS—performance measured, potential unlocked.”https://www.titansensor.com/DM Titan:https://x.com/titansensorRegister for the upcoming TFC event in Mobile, Alabama or Nashville, Tennessee:https://store.simplifaster.com/product/sprint-based-football-saraland-al-single-ticket/Connect:https://x.com/pntrackhttps://x.com/wcsrhsstrengthhttps://x.com/CoachKGrabowski Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices