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Coach and Coordinator Podcast
Coach and Coordinator Podcast
Author: Keith Grabowski
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Description
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.
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In this Coach and Coordinator Podcast episode, host Keith Grabowski and Aaron Young, co founder of Coach Portal, dive into the evolving coaching job market and the challenges coaches face in advancing their careers.
They discuss the importance of networking, the hidden nature of many job opportunities, and the role athletic directors play in hiring. Aaron shares his journey in coaching and how it led to the creation of Coach Portal, a platform designed to help coaches expand their networks, increase visibility, and be better prepared for career opportunities.
More than just winning games, success in coaching is about building relationships, staying prepared, and positioning oneself for the right opportunities at the right time.
Chapters
The Evolution of Coaching Careers
Navigating the Coaching Job Market
Understanding Athletic Directors' Perspectives
The Role of Coach Portal in Job Searches
Enhancing Visibility and Networking for Coaches
Preparing for Job Opportunities
The Importance of Professional Development
Leveraging Technology in Coaching Careers
Actionable Steps for Coaches
Future of Coach Portal and Career Control
Sign-up for Coach Portal:
Go to coach-portal.com
Early sign-ups get six months free.
Get a free month for referring other coaches.
Support Our Partners + Offers for Our Listeners:
10% Tool Kit
Coach 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 objectives for their programs. Think of it as a buyer's guide for vendors and suppliers we trust with our seal of certification.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, Keith Grabowski and Kevin Abrams explore the evolving landscape of coaching careers, emphasizing the role of relationships, networking, and professional visibility. They introduce Coach Portal, an innovative platform that equips coaches with real-time job market insights, mentorship, and career development resources.
The discussion highlights common challenges coaches face in their job search, the importance of adaptability in an increasingly competitive field, and the necessity of preparation and strong presentation skills.
Additionally, they examine the growing need for transparency in hiring processes and the advantages of leveraging technology for career advancement. This episode provides valuable insights for coaches seeking to navigate their careers strategically and position themselves for long-term success in a dynamic industry.
Chapters
Kevin Abrams' Coaching Journey
Understanding the Coaching Job Market
Networking and Relationship Building
The Evolution of Job Searches in Coaching
Trends in High School Coaching Hiring
The Importance of Fit in Coaching Positions
Innovative Features of Coach Portal
Preparing for Career Advancement
Affordable Access to Coaching Resources
Sign-up for Coach Portal:
Go to coach-portal.com
Early sign-ups get six months free.
Get a free month for referring other coaches.
Support Our Partners + Offers for Our Listeners:
10% Tool Kit
Coach 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 objectives for their
programs.
Think of it as a buyer's guide for vendors and suppliers we trust with our
seal of certification.
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 Pyne
Support Our Sponsor – CoachTube
Having 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-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
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 @pntrack
Ric Arand @LWHSPanters
Coach and Coordinator @CoachKGrabowski
Resources On CoachTube:
Sprint-Based Football Bundle
Feed the Cats Football Bundle
TFC 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 – CoachTube
If 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
In this episode of The Turnaround Series, host Michael Echaves sits down with Charlie TeGantvoort, a coach with a track record of rebuilding struggling programs and turning them into winners. Coach T shares his approach to building relationships, changing team culture, and creating a winning mindset—all key elements in a program's transformation.
From inheriting teams with years of losing seasons to leading them to playoff victories and championships, Coach T details the strategies, leadership principles, and culture shifts that made success possible. He emphasizes the power of one-on-one connections, how to handle negative mindsets, and why winning starts before the first game is even played.
Whether you're a coach looking to revive a struggling program or someone fascinated by leadership and culture change, this episode delivers valuable lessons on commitment, strategy, and resilience.
Topics Covered
The importance of relationship-building in a turnaround
How to change a losing mindset into a winning one
Strategic scheduling to build confidence and momentum
The role of administration, teachers, and community support
How to handle negative attitudes and keep a team moving forward
The importance of coaching staff and leadership structure
Support Our Sponsor – CoachTube
If 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
In this episode of Sprint Based Football presented by Titan Sensors, international speed coach Chris Korfist shares his expertise in speed training, particularly in football, and its pivotal role in an athlete’s performance. He discusses the remarkable speed transformation of NFL player David Montgomery and highlights the impact of cutting-edge technology like the 1080 sprint machine in measuring and enhancing speed.
Chris challenges traditional strength training methods, advocating for a more targeted approach that prioritizes speed development, effective warmups, and injury prevention. He also explains the importance of energy management through his "jelly bean" analogy, emphasizing that athletes must be strategic in their training to maximize performance. Focusing on quality over quantity, Chris provides valuable insights into how optimizing muscle function at various speeds can lead to superior athletic results.
Chapters
Introduction to Chris Korfist and His Journey
David Montgomery's Transformation
The 1080 Sprint Machine: A Game Changer
Understanding Speed Development and Training
Potential NFL Career and Coaching Philosophy
RPR and Its Impact on Performance
Muscle Function and Injury Prevention
The Role of Strength Training in Speed
The Nature of Injuries in High-Intensity Sports
The Importance of Sprinting in Football Training
Training Big Athletes for Speed
Max Velocity Training for All Athletes
Sprint-Based Football Philosophy
Evaluating High School Weightlifting Programs
The Limitations of Traditional Strength Training
Strength Training vs. Sport-Specific Power Development
The Impact of Warmups and Practice Volumes
Rethinking Conditioning and Energy Management
The Role of Coaches in Athlete Development
Exploring Charisma in Coaching and Leadership
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 @pntrack
Garrett Mueller @SHSCoachMueller
Learn more from Chris Korfist on CoachTube
Resources On CoachTube:
Sprint-Based Football Bundle
Feed the Cats Football Bundle
TFC Sprint-Based Football
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of the Student of the Game podcast, Coach And Coordinator Studio
2 interviews Brandon Labath, offensive line coach and run game coordinator at the University of St. Thomas.
Labath shares his coaching journey, emphasizing the importance of being a lifelong student of the game, networking with fellow coaches, and continuously refining his approach. He discusses transitioning to coaching the offensive line, integrating new concepts into existing systems, and enhancing successful plays by keeping defenses guessing. The conversation highlights the significance of self-analysis, offseason adjustments, and instilling a run-off-the-football mentality in players. Labath also stresses the value of building strong relationships with athletes and maintaining an adaptable mindset in coaching.
Chapters
Introduction to Coaching Philosophy
Brandon Labath's Unique Background
Being a Student of the Game
Networking and Learning Tools
Transitioning to Offensive Line Coaching
Integrating New Concepts into Existing Systems
Enhancing Successful Concepts
Self-Analysis vs. External Study
Adjusting Offseason Processes
Running Off the Football
Support our Partners:
Modern Football
Technology
Signature
Championship Rings
Titan GPS
Resources from Caleb Corrill:
Layering
Your
Base Concepts with Formation Distortion
Post
Snap
Route Adjustments and Corresponding Pass Concepts
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of Sprint-Based Football presented by Titan GPS, Tony Holler sits down with Erik Becker, head coach at Daniel Hand High School in Madison, Connecticut, who has led his
team to a state championship with an impressive 23-2 record.
They dive into the principles of sprint-based football, exploring Becker’s journey as both a
player and coach, the impact of speed training, and the structure of an effective weekly practice. Beyond the X’s and O’s, they discuss character development, athlete recovery, and the benefits of multi-sport participation.
Tune in for an insightful conversation on how speed, strategy, and a holistic
coaching approach shapes championship-level teams.
Chapters:
Coaching Philosophy and Influences
Sprint-Based Football Training
Weekly Practice Structure
Conditioning and Speed Metrics
The Importance of Speed in Football
Big Kids and Speed Training
Game Readiness and Conditioning
Rethinking Conditioning in Football
The Importance of Recovery
Innovative Coaching Strategies
The Role of Speed in Football
The Truck Stick Metric
Character Building in Coaching
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
Support our Partner: The Headset App
Football coaches are completely rethinking their headset systems. They are using The Headset App to increase transition speeds at practice, give quarterbacks real-time feedback from the press box, and more.
Now players, GAs, backups, signal-callers, and training staff can access the necessary communications. Coaches are developing new hacks to improve their daily practice and gameplay, which traditional systems cannot do.
You will pay a fraction of the cost compared to traditional systems…spend that budget to improve other areas of your Sprint-Based Football program.
Learn more: https://theheadsetapp.com/football/
Connect on X:
Tony Holler @pntrack
Erik Becker @ErickBecker42
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of Student of the Game, we sit down with Tim Souza, Offensive Line Coach and Run Game Coordinator at Southern Oregon University. A dedicated student of the game, Tim shares his expertise on coaching, communication, and the ever-evolving landscape of football strategy.
We dive into his coaching journey, the power of effective teaching, and the importance of building meaningful relationships in the profession. Tim also discusses integrating new concepts into existing systems, refining the film review process, and understanding player behavior as a key aspect of coaching. Whether you're a seasoned coach or just starting out, this insightful conversation is packed with valuable lessons to elevate your approach to the game.
Chapters
Introduction to Coaching Connections
Tim Souza's Coaching Journey
The Importance of Being a Student of the Game
Exploring Learning Mediums in Coaching
Film Review and Self-Assessment Process
Finding Your Coaching Identity
Building a Flexible Coaching System
Integrating New Ideas into Existing Systems
Enhancing Effective Concepts
Balancing Installation and Player Understanding
The Importance of Pausing for Mastery
Support our Partners:
Modern Football
Technology
Signature
Championship Rings
Titan GPS
Resources from Caleb Corrill:
Layering
Your Base Concepts with Formation Distortion
Post
Snap Route Adjustments and Corresponding Pass Concepts
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Student of the Game - A Coaching Odyssey - Chet Walters
In 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 Technology
Signature Championship Rings
Titan GPS
Resources from Caleb Corrill:
Layering Your Base Concepts with Formation Distortion
Post Snap Route Adjustments and Corresponding Pass Concepts
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today, we introduce the Sprint-Based Football series, emphasizing its holistic approach to coaching and athlete development. Keith Grabowski and the host of the series Tony Holler discuss the movement's evolution, the importance of creating a positive coaching environment, and the individualized nature of coaching strategies. They highlight the significance of a feedback loop in coaching, where both players and coaches thrive in a supportive atmosphere. The series aims to explore various topics related to sprint-based football, featuring insights from different coaches and experts in the field.
Takeaways
The Sprint-Based Football series aims to provide diverse coaching perspectives.
This movement is more than just a speed program; it's holistic.
Creating a positive environment enhances player performance.
The feedback loop is crucial for both players and coaches.
Health and well-being are prioritized in coaching practices.
Individualized coaching approaches are essential for success.
Gamifying practice makes it more enjoyable for players.
Coaching is not a one-size-fits-all system; it requires adaptation.
The movement is gaining traction and proving effective in competitions.
Collaboration and sharing ideas among coaches are vital for growth.
Support Our Partners + Offers for Our Listeners:
10% Tool Kit
Coach 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 objectives for their programs. Think of it as a buyer's guide for vendors and suppliers we trust with our seal of certification.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Give - A Lauren’s First & Goal Podcast
Episode: Kevin May – Manipulating Protections to Create Pressure
In this episode of The Give, Kevin May, head coach at Seton Hill University, gives a preview of his LFG Clinic presentation which breaks down how his defense consistently generates pressure by manipulating pass protection rules.
Before stepping into the head coach role, May and his staff were annual supporters of the Lauren’s First & Goal Foundation clinic, studying sessions, implementing ideas, and shaping a defense that finished near the top of Division II in sacks and tackles for loss.
Now he gives back by sharing the system behind that production.
This conversation is not about calling more blitzes. It is about understanding how offenses protect and forcing them into predictable breakdowns.
What you'll Learn:
How to identify big-on-big vs. slide protection pre-snap
Why the “last man in the slide” is the key to breaking protection
How to force offenses to become what they want to be
Why built-in “if this, then that” rules matter in pressure design
The difference between fast pressure and slow-developing schemes
How to isolate the running back in protection
Why understanding protection rules beats guessing on third down
Register for Lauren's First and Goal Clinic: https://lfgclinic.com/
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What if the very thing you believe proves your control as a head coach is actually limiting your impact?
In this solo episode, Keith Grabowski challenges one of the most common beliefs in football: that elite head coaches must call plays to prove their value. Drawing from NFL examples, high school and small college case studies, and firsthand coaching experience, Keith breaks down why delegation is not a loss of authority; it is often the path to stronger leadership and better outcomes.
You don’t have to call plays to be elite. In many cases, you become more elite when you stop.
Topics:
The myth of control vs. true command
Why calling every play can narrow leadership vision
NFL examples of successful delegation
A cautionary example of overload at the highest level
High school and small college case studies
Phased delegation and building trust within a staff
How coordinators earn play-calling responsibility
How head coaches evaluate whether it’s time to delegate
Reducing cognitive load to improve game management
Protecting culture in high-stress moments
Making delegation operational, not emotional
Using structure and simulation to transition responsibilities
Leveraging analytics to maintain oversight without micromanaging
Delegation as competitive advantage, not surrender
Support our Partner Modern Football:
If you want to take the overload out of game day and give your staff an edge in real-time decision-making, check out Book a demo with Modern Football Technology to see how live analytics can support delegation, sharpen adjustments, and free your head coach to lead the whole team.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On this episode of Slot-T Mafia, Coach Kilby sits down with Texas high school football veteran and Jarrell HS (TX) head coach Alan Haire to unpack a coaching journey defined by persistence, mentorship, and a commitment to building programs the right way. Coach Haire shares how he transitioned into the Slot T offense, the early challenges of installing it, and why an obsession with detail, offseason preparation, and daily standards ultimately changed the trajectory of his teams.
The conversation dives into what it truly takes to build a culture opponents don’t want to face. From strength training and offseason buy-in to mentorship, belief, and learning through failure. Coach Haire reflects on missed playoff seasons, breakthrough years, and the coaches who shaped his philosophy, offering honest insight into why the Slot T isn’t just a system, it’s a commitment to toughness and trust.
This episode is a must-listen for coaches looking to build sustainable success, embrace mentorship, and leave a lasting impact on their program and players.
Join the Slot-T Mafia Today | Learn the Slot-T With Paul Kilby
If you’re ready to learn and teach the Slot-T the right way, start here. Join the Slot-T Mafia and get year-round access to Paul Kilby’s complete system, installs, and teaching progressions.
Chapters
The Journey Into the Slot T
Building a Winning Culture
Mentorship, Learning, and Coaching Growth
Belief, Persistence, and Program Buy-In
Daily Practice and Attention to Detail
Lessons From Adversity and COVID
Game Day Strategy and Adjustments
The Slot T as a Long-Term System
Strength, Conditioning, and Toughness
Championship Moments and Milestones
Coaching Influences and Philosophy
Leaving a Legacy and Passing It On
Connect on X:
Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski
Alan Haire: @coachahaire
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On Super Bowl Sunday, as the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots prepare to meet on the game’s biggest stage, this episode of the Coach and Coordinator Podcast looks beneath the surface of execution.
Over the last six years, assistant coaches from both organizations have appeared on the podcast and in Coach and Coordinator Network clinics. Different staffs. Different roles. Different seasons. But when their conversations are placed side by side, a shared teaching mindset emerges.
This episode brings those voices together to examine how NFL assistants think about preparing players to perform when decisions must be made quickly and mistakes are magnified.
Rather than focusing on schemes or play design, the discussion centers on how the game is taught day after day, long before kickoff.
Jeff Howard, Safeties Coach, Seattle Seahawks
Howard explains why defensive execution begins with understanding offensive intent, not simply reacting to formations or motion. By studying what offenses are trying to accomplish in specific situations, defenders are better equipped to anticipate problems instead of chasing them.
Jay Harbaugh, Special Teams Coordinator, Seattle Seahawks
Harbaugh breaks down how performance improves when players are placed in roles that match their physical traits, experience level, and mental capacity. From veteran core players to young contributors, assignment design matters as much as effort.
Andrew Janocko, Quarterbacks Coach, Seattle Seahawks
Janocko discusses why quick game concepts remain a foundation across successful offenses. High-percentage throws, reduced hits, and defined reads help quarterbacks find rhythm while protecting the offensive line and creating catch-and-run opportunities.
Jake Peetz, Pass Game Coordinator, Seattle Seahawks
Peetz connects practice design to late-game execution. He explains how pocket movement and lower-body mechanics must be trained consistently so quarterbacks rely on ingrained habits when the game is on the line.
Chris Partridge, Outside Linebackers Coach, Seattle Seahawks
Partridge outlines how defensive rules simplify decision-making under pressure. By eliminating unnecessary movement and defining responsibilities, players can react decisively in high-leverage situations.
Jason Houghtaling, Assistant Offensive Line Coach, New England Patriots
Houghtaling explains why standards, not just rules, determine how teams play. From eye placement to footwork and finish, consistent expectations shape physical play and accountability across a program.
Justin Hamilton, Cornerbacks Coach, New England Patriots
Hamilton closes the episode by addressing modern roster dynamics. He emphasizes the importance of helping players understand how they fit, why their role matters, and how ownership drives long-term development and buy-in.
This episode is made possible through conversations hosted by:
Lauren’s First and Goal
Pennsylvania Scholastic Football Coaches Association
Louisiana Football Coaches Association
Their clinics continue to provide spaces where coaches share real teaching practices across levels of the game.
If this episode resonated, you can continue learning at the Lauren’s First and Goal Clinic, held February 19–21.
The clinic features coaches like Chris Partridge and supports pediatric brain tumor research and cancer services.
Learn more and register at https://lfgclinic.com/
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of the Coach and Coordinator Network, powered by Modern Football Technology, Kegan and Madelyn Wirtz discuss building a sustainable game-day analytics workflow that improved sideline decision-making. Madelyn describes her progression from having little football experience to becoming a trusted in-game analytics coordinator. They explain how clear communication, intentional workflow design, and aligned decision-making integrates analytics into coaching operations.
The discussion showcases how live data enabled smarter in-game adjustments, strengthened coaching relationships, and improved team performance, leading to a state championship. Kegan and Madelyn also address the human side of analytics, highlighting trust and relationship-building as key to effective data-driven coaching. This episode provides useful insights into how purposeful, straightforward analytics can empower coaches and staff at any level.
Chapters
Wirtz Family
Introduction to Game Day Analytics
Building a Sustainable Analytics Workflow
The Role of Communication in Analytics
Connect on X:
Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski
Kegan Wirtz: @coachwirtz
Modern Football: @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
On this episode of Champions, presented by Signature Championship Rings, Keith Grabowski sits down with Wes Schroeder, head coach of Olentangy Orange HS (OH), to break down the principles behind a perfect 15–0 season and a state championship run.
Coach Schroeder outlines the foundational pillars of his program: physicality, accountability, and emotional regulation. He explains how these standards are reflected in daily practices, preparation, and player relationships. He also discusses how efficient practice planning prevents burnout, the importance of pairing toughness with genuine care for players, and how emotional control under pressure distinguishes championship teams.
The discussion covers innovative offseason training, staff alignment, and creating a culture where players celebrate each other's success. Coach Schroeder provides practical advice for new coaches on leadership, managing expectations, and building programs, emphasizing authenticity and consistency in everything you do.
This episode offers insight into building championship programs from within, highlighting the importance of culture, communication, and intentional training before results appear on the scoreboard.
Chapters
Introduction to a Champion Coach
Building a Winning Culture
The Balance of Physicality and Efficiency
Emotional Regulation in Competitive Practices
Preparing for the Future: Transitioning Teams
Innovative Approaches to Off-Season Training
Staff Dynamics and Team Cohesion
Advice for New Coaches
Conclusion and Future Aspirations
Connect on X:
Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski
Wes Schroeder: @wes_schroeder
Learn More About Our Partner: 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 https://signaturechampions.com/podcast/
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On this episode of Slot-T Mafia, Coaches Thad Wheeler and Nick Kepa break down their journey transitioning Lafayette High School from the Wing-T to the Slot-T offense, sharing lessons from changing systems, language, and expectations. They explain how they built player buy-in, why coaching alignment mattered as much as scheme, and how professional development visits accelerated their advancement and certainty in the system.
The conversation covers the practical issues of transition: adjusting terminology, rethinking practice tempo, maximizing skill players, and staying patient when early results do not show up on Friday nights. Wheeler and Kepa also discuss how performance standards, self-evaluation, and community coaching resources refined their approach.
This episode shows that moving to the Slot-T is not only about installing plays. It is about developing a coaching philosophy, creating staff cohesion, and building an offense that fits your players. A must-listen for coaches considering a system change or aiming to sharpen how they teach, adapt, and grow within the Slot-T world.
Chapters
Introduction to the Lafayette Slot T Transition
From Wing T to Slot T Philosophy
Aligning the Coaching Staff
Building Player Buy-In
Learning Through Professional Development
Adjusting Language and Practice Structure
Maximizing Skill Players
Speed, Tempo, and Practice Efficiency
Overcoming Challenges During the Transition
Game-Day Adjustments and Evaluation
Using Metrics and Film for Growth
The Future of the Slot T at Lafayette
Connect on X:
Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski
Thad Wheeler: @coachtwheeler
Nick Kepa: @Coach_Kepa
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On this episode of Coach and Coordinator Network, Keith Grabowski breaks down why visualization is one of the most misunderstood and powerful tools in coaching. Using a real-world example from Seahawks Head Coach Mike Macdonald, Keith explains how intentional visualization can shape team identity, sharpen decision-making, and prepare athletes to operate under pressure before the moment arrives.
The conversation dives into the science behind visualization, exploring how the brain filters information, builds self-image, and influences behavior during high-stress situations. Keith outlines what effective visualization looks like: specific, emotional, and repeated. He explains why generic or passive approaches do not work to create long-term impact.
Coaches will walk away with useful techniques for implementing visualization in their programs, from reinforcing positive identity to helping players replace negative experiences with clear, confident mental imagery. This episode provides a well-defined framework for using visualization not as motivation but as a teaching tool that directly supports performance, leadership, and athlete development.
Chapters
The Power of Visualization in Coaching
Understanding the Science Behind Visualization
Shaping Identity Through Visualization
Practical Steps for Effective Visualization
Connect on X:
Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski
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