Coach and Coordinator Podcast

In this episode of the Turnaround Podcast presented by CoachTube, Coach Erick Knickerbocker shares his inspiring journey of transforming the Rockville High School football program from a struggling team into a competitive force. He delves into the strategies behind building a winning culture, engaging the community, and implementing effective on- and off-field techniques. Through his conversation with host Michael Echaves, Coach Knickerbocker highlights the importance of vision, belief, and strong support systems in achieving long-term success. They discuss the challenges of rebuilding a program, handling pushback from players and the community, and developing meaningful relationships with athletes. With insights on mentorship, program history, and sustaining success, this episode offers a deep dive into the intricacies of coaching and leadership in high school sports.Chapters The Turnaround Journey Begins Building a Winning Culture Restoring the Rock: Vision and Strategy Community Engagement and Support On-Field Strategies for Success Building a Strong Coaching Foundation Navigating Challenges During Rebuilding The Importance of Support Systems Handling Pushback and Resistance Developing Relationships with Players Sustaining Success and Motivating Teams  Support Our Sponsor – CoachTubeIf you're working to turn a program around, having the right resources and proven strategies is essential. CoachTube is a technology platform that connects you with on-demandcourses from elite coaches, state associations, and charities—helping you learn, grow, and develop your program. If you're a coach with knowledge to share, CoachTube makes it easy to create and distribute your own training content. Teach what you know, help other coaches, and build your brand.Explore courses at CoachTube.com or contact keith@coachtube.com to learn how to share your expertise. Subscribe, rate, and review to stay current with more insights from top turnaround coaches. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Champions presented by Signature Championship Rings, we sit down with championship-winning coaches Cody Flournoy (Jackson Aggies, Alabama Class 4A State Champion), Jeremy Schulte (Rumson-Fair Haven Bulldogs, New Jersey Group 2 State Champion), and Galen Brantley (Soldotna Stars, Alaska DII Football State Champion) to discuss the evolving landscape of football coaching. They share their experiences on building player and staff buy-in, leveraging technology for success, and the value of multi-sport participation. From adapting offensive strategies to managing long seasons and developing a winning culture, these seasoned leaders offer invaluable insights for coaches at all levels.Chapters Preparing for Innovation and Change Coaching Success Stories Adapting Offensive Strategies Transitioning Leadership in Coaching Embracing Technology in Coaching State Championship Dynamics Managing Practice Schedules Utilizing Modern Training Techniques Building Community Support Fostering Multi-Sport Participation The Impact of Ice Hockey on Football Players The Importance of Multi-Sport Participation Innovative Coaching Strategies in Football Building a Winning Culture in High School Football Evolving Safety Practices in Football Training The Role of Spring Training in Player Development Comparative Analysis of Football Seasons Across States The Journey of Developing Young Athletes The Value of Hard Work and Consistency in Sports 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 GoRout:If you’re looking to maximize reps and create a game-like tempo in practice, look no further than GoRout. With instant play call delivery, real-time adjustments, and seamless integration with your existing playbooks, GoRout allows your team to get the most out of every rep. Click the link in the description below today to see how top programs across the country are using it to level up their practices.Learn More About GoRout and special offers for our listeners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Art of Practice presented by GoRout, Kasey Teegardin, Defensive Ends and Special Teams Coordinator at Eastern Michigan University, provides an in-depth look at the evolution of special teams practice. He discusses how modern coaching strategies focus on optimizing player workload, improving efficiency, and refining fundamental skills. Coach Teegardin outlines a structured weekly practice plan, emphasizing the importance of situational awareness, penalty prevention, and breaking down drills into smaller, more effective segments.He also explores the key role of head coach involvement in special teams success and how integrating technology can enhance practice organization and execution. Chapters Evolution of Special Teams Practice Weekly Practice Structure Avoiding Penalties in Special Teams Key Tips for Coaches on Special Teams About Our Partner - GoRoutGoRout helps coaches eliminate huddles, increase reps, and maximize efficiency with their game-changing technology. Sign up using code “coordinator” for up to 50% off setup fees at gorout.com/podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Coach Siddiq Haynes breaks down the defensive identity that’s powered UTSA to back-to-back top five finishes in sacks and tackles for loss. Coach Haynes shares how the Roadrunners build a culture rooted in toughness, stop the run to create pass rush opportunities, and teach their defensive linemen to play fast, vertical, and disruptive. From philosophy to technique to personnel strategy, this conversation delivers valuable insights for any coach looking to build a more aggressive and productive front.Chapters: How run defense sets up consistent pass rush success Why UTSA relies on movement and games to create pressure How Coach Haynes develops each player’s unique skill set The core principles of UTSA’s “Triangle of Toughness” Practical coaching points for disrupting protections and affecting the quarterback Support pediatric brain tumor research and get year-long access to over 100 elite coaching presentations by purchasing your ticket to Lauren’s First and Goal at LFGF2025.CoachTube.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Andrew DiDonato, the head coach at Grove City, shares his inspiring journey of transforming a struggling football program from an 0-20 record to a powerhouse with six winning seasons. He emphasizes the crucial role of a clear vision in leadership and discusses how commitment, adaptability, and a supportive culture drove their success. DiDonato highlights the pivotal 2018 season, the importance of learning from past players, and the philosophy of 'vision, process, love' that underpins their achievements. His insights offer valuable lessons for any leader.

Today, on the Coach and Coordinator Podcast we’re diving into an aspect of coaching that is important to all phases of the game - how to build a smarter, more disciplined unit. We will focus specifically on how that is done for the defensive side of the ball, but the concepts apply to offense and special teams as well.This clinic segment from the most recent Lauren’s First and Goal Clinic is from Joe Bowen, the defensive coordinator and linebackers coach at the University of Buffalo, who was named the 2024 FootballScoop Linebackers Coach of the Year. Under his leadership, Buffalo produced the top two tacklers in the nation, while dramatically improving their overall defensive performance.In this segment, Coach Bowen shares his proven framework for structuring a defense, teaching players how to study offenses, and developing linebacker fundamentals that translate directly to game-day success. He covers key topics like offensive identification, defensive meeting structure, and film study techniques that build instincts, discipline, and execution on the field.Chapters Building an Offseason Structure for Player Development Teaching Fundamentals and Techniques in Football Offensive Identification and Defensive Strategies Meeting Structures and Film Study for Players Linebacker Fundamentals and Techniques The Lauren's First & Goal Clinic with 100+ presentations including Coach Bowen's is available here: lfgf2025.coachtube.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Turnaround presented by CoachTube, host Michael Echaves is joined by Coach Steve Pyne, who shares his wealth of experience in transforming high school football programs, from Wilson High School to Central Catholic and now Union High School. He dives into the importance of building strong relationships, fostering accountability, and creating a positive team culture while navigating the challenges of coaching transitions. Coach Pyne reflects on the lessons he's learned throughout his career, emphasizing the value of adaptability, clear vision, and investing in players both on and off the field. Whether you're a coach, athlete, or sports enthusiast, this conversation offers valuable insights into leadership, resilience, and the true purpose of coaching beyond the scoreboard.Chapters Coach Steve Pyne's Journey Turning Around Wilson High School Key Ingredients for Success at Wilson Transitioning to Central Catholic Lessons Learned from Transition Challenges Building a Winning Culture at Central Establishing a Mission and Vision for the Program Achieving Success and Overcoming Adversity Reflections on Complacency and Growth Building a Culture of Accountability Transitioning to Union High School Emphasizing Accountability and Relationships Setting Expectations and Standards Overcoming Challenges in Rebuilding Positive Relationships and Communication  Related episode:Three Keys to Building a Championship Program - Steve PyneSupport Our Sponsor – CoachTubeHaving the right resources and proven strategies is essential if you're working to turn a program around. CoachTube is a technology platform that connects you with on-demandcourses from elite coaches, state associations, and charities—helpingyou learn, grow, and develop your program. If you're a coach with knowledge to share, CoachTube makes it easy to create and distribute your own training content. Teach what you know, help other coaches, and build your brand.Explore courses at CoachTube.com orcontact keith@coachtube.com to learn how to share your expertise. Subscribe, rate, and review to stay current with more insights from top turnaround coaches. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, coaches Scott Strohmeier, Head Coach of Iowa Western and Keegan O’Hara, Assistant QB Coach, Minnesota dive into the role of tempo in football practice. They explore strategies for creating efficient, engaging, and up-tempo sessions that maximize player focus and coaching effectiveness. From procedural efficiency in huddle and no-huddle systems to optimizing scout team performance, they discuss common coaching mistakes and provide actionable insights for improving practice structure. Key takeaways include staff alignment, clear communication, and adjusting routines to keep players engaged. This episode is packed with valuable tips to enhance your team's performance. Chapters Mastering Tempo in Practice Engagement and Efficiency in Practice Coaching on the Run Huddling with Tempo Procedural Efficiency in Practice Common Mistakes in Up-Tempo Practices Managing Player Fatigue Scout Team Efficiency Utilizing Technology for Practice Key Takeaways for Efficient Practice About Our Partner - GoRoutGoRout helps coaches eliminate huddles, increase reps, and maximize efficiency with their game-changing technology. Sign up using code “coordinator” for up to 50% off setup fees at gorout.com/podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Tony Holler interviews Ric Arand, the highly successful head football coach at Lena Winslow High School, with an impressive record of 270-68. They discuss the impact of community support, the adoption of the 'Feed the Cats' sprint-based training philosophy, and the importance of a unified coaching staff. Ric shares insights on innovative practice structures, injury prevention strategies, and the challenges of competing against private schools. He also reflects on the role of family in coaching, the broader purpose of shaping athletes beyond the game, and the continuous pursuit of improvement in coaching practices. Tune in for an insightful conversation on leadership, innovation, and the lasting impact of coaching.Chapters Introduction to Ric Arand and Lena Winslow High School The Importance of Community and Coaching Culture The Influence of Great Coaches Building a Cohesive Coaching Staff The Open Book Philosophy in Coaching Adopting the Feed the Cats Mentality Transitioning to Sprint-Based Football The Impact of Sprint-Based Training on Performance Embracing Change in Coaching Methods The Wave Theory in Practice Creating Effective Practice Plans The Balance of Speed and Recovery Days Injury Prevention through Sprinting Conclusion and Future Directions Injury Management and Athletic Development RPR: Revolutionizing Athletic Performance Challenges of Private vs. Public School Athletics The Impact of Community Support on Athletics Balancing Family Life and Coaching Celebrating Achievements and Future Prospects Support our Partner: Titan GPS Founded 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/titansensor   Connect on X:Tony Holler @pntrackRic Arand @LWHSPanters Coach and Coordinator @CoachKGrabowskiResources On CoachTube:Sprint-Based Football BundleFeed the Cats Football BundleTFC Sprint-Based Football Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Turnaround powered by CoachTube, Coach Brett Mertens takes us inside the playbook of rebuilding struggling football programs. From starting from scratch to building a championship mindset, he shares the strategies, challenges, and leadership lessons that fueled success at Crean Lutheran and Montrose High School. Coach Mertens highlights the power of relationships, community support, and a strong coaching philosophy in shaping winning teams—on and off the field. Whether you're a coach or athletic director, this episode is packed with insights on resilience, vision, and the true impact of coaching. Chapters Introduction to Coach Brett Mertens Investing in Relationships: The Key to Success Turning Point: Achieving a Winning Record Transitioning to Montrose: New Challenges Ahead Building Community Support: The Foundation of Success Vision and Commitment: Creating a Lasting Impact Strategic Shifts: Adapting to Win Final Thoughts: The Importance of Relationships Support Our Sponsor – CoachTubeIf you're working to turn a program around, having the right resources and proven strategies is essential. CoachTube is a technology platform that connects you with on-demand courses from elite coaches, state associations, and charities—helping you learn, grow, and develop your program.If you're a coach with knowledge to share, CoachTube makes it easy to create and distribute your own training content. Teach what you know, help other coaches, and build your brand.Explore courses at CoachTube.com or contact keith@coachtube.com to learn how to share your expertise.Subscribe, rate, and review to stay current with more insights from top turnaround coaches. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices