Coaches At Crown Brew Getting Coffee

In Episode 52 of Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee, presented by the Swinford Media Group and sponsored by Adrenaline Fundraising, Marion Plumbing, and Swinford Wedding Videography, host Kerry Martin sits down with one of Midwest’s most respected college basketball coaches—Rodney Watson. From his small-town roots in Paris, Illinois, to more than two decades on the SIU sidelines under Rich Herrin, Bruce Weber, Matt Painter, and Chris Lowery, Watson helped guide the Salukis to 11 Missouri Valley Conference titles, nine NCAA Tournament bids, and a run that turned Carbondale into one of the nation’s toughest places to play.In 2009, Watson took over at the University of Southern Indiana, where he became the winningest and longest-tenured coach in program history. Over 11 seasons, he led the Screaming Eagles to nine 20-win campaigns, multiple NCAA Division II Tournament appearances—including a Final Four run—and built a culture of toughness, accountability, and family.In this episode, Coach Watson reflects on his coaching journey, from learning under legends to carving out his own legacy. He shares the lessons of resilience that carried him from farm life to the national stage, the mentors who shaped his philosophy, and the values of loyalty, faith, and community that have guided his career.Don’t miss this conversation with a coaching legend whose impact has stretched from high school gyms to NCAA arenas—and whose story continues to inspire.

In Episode 51 of Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee, presented by the Swinford Media Group and sponsored by Adrenaline Fundraising, Marion Plumbing, and Swinford Wedding Videography, host Kerry Martin sits down with one of Southern Illinois’ most recognizable voices—retired broadcaster Mark Kiesling. From his start at WSIL in 1981, to 16 years as sports director, to two decades as a trusted news anchor, Kiesling built a career defined by professionalism, respect, and storytelling.As a host of Sports Extra, he turned Friday nights into a regional tradition, spotlighting athletes, coaches, and communities in a way that became Southern Illinois’ own version of SportsCenter. After shifting from sports to news, he guided viewers through some of the region’s biggest stories over four decades, earning multiple broadcasting awards along the way. Kiesling also served with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, investing in coaches and young people across Southern Illinois, before returning to the anchor desk and later stepping into retirement.Now, he’s entering a new chapter—this fall, Kiesling is launching Illinois Backroads, a WSIU series that celebrates the people and places of our state. In this episode, he reflects on his journey from small-town Missouri kid to one of Southern Illinois’ most trusted media figures. He shares stories of building Sports Extra, the lessons learned in both sports and newsrooms, and the values of faith, respect, and connection that have guided his path.Don’t miss this inspiring episode with a Southern Illinois legend whose career has touched generations of athletes, coaches, and viewers.

In Episode 50 of Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee, presented by the Swinford Media Group and sponsored by Adrenaline Fundraising, Marion Plumbing, and Swinford Wedding Videography, host Kerry Martin sits down with Southern Illinois basketball veteran and current Marion High School girls basketball head coach—Erik Griffin. A Carrier Mills native, Griffin was an All-State selection, McDonald’s All-American honorable mention, and a key player in the Rich Herrin-led turnaround at Southern Illinois University, helping the Salukis to a then-school-record 26 wins and a Missouri Valley Conference title.After college, Griffin took over his alma mater’s program at just 22 years old before making his mark at Meridian High School—leading the Bobcats to the 2015 Class 1A state championship game in his first season and collecting multiple regional championships over the years. Known for his emphasis on discipline, accountability, and belief, Griffin has built competitive, tight-knit teams at every stop, leaving a lasting impact on the athletes and communities he’s served.Now at Marion, Griffin recently guided the Wildcats to one of the most successful seasons in program history, blending years of experience with a fresh approach to culture and confidence-building. In this milestone episode, he reflects on growing up in a basketball-rich community, the lessons learned from both playing and coaching at high levels, and how relationships, trust, and shared goals have shaped his philosophy. He also shares behind-the-scenes stories from his playing days, the emotional highs and lows of tournament runs, and why building a program is as much about molding character as it is about winning games.Don’t miss this landmark 50th episode filled with perspective, history, and inspiration.

In Episode 49 of Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee, presented by Swinford Media Group and sponsored by Adrenaline Fundraising, Marion Plumbing, and Swinford Wedding Videography, host Kerry Martin sits down with one of the true icons of Illinois high school basketball—Coach Dick Corn. A native of Macedonia, Illinois, and a Benton High School graduate, Corn built a legendary coaching career that spanned more than three decades. He began in 1972 at the junior high level before eventually taking over the program at Pinckneyville High School in 1975, where he would remain until his retirement in 2007. Under his leadership, the Panthers became one of the most respected programs in the state. Coach Corn amassed an incredible 708 career wins, including two IHSA State Championships in 1994 and 2001, four Final Four appearances, and 24 seasons with 20 or more wins. Known for his player-first approach, fundamental basketball, and high expectations both on and off the court, Corn instilled values of teamwork, work ethic, and personal accountability into generations of student-athletes. In this candid conversation, Coach Corn reflects on his humble beginnings, the mentors who shaped him, his coaching philosophy, and the power of building a culture that lasts. He also shares personal stories about cutting talented players for the greater good, navigating grief and triumph, and why practices—not game days—were his favorite part of the job. Even in retirement, Corn continues to invest in his community and remains a fixture at Pinckneyville events—though as one young student hilariously put it, “Why is my bus driver’s name on the court?”

In Episode 48 of Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee, presented by the Swinford Media Group and sponsored by Adrenaline Fundraising, Marion Plumbing, and Swinford Wedding Videography, host Kerry Martin sits down with one of the most innovative and impactful minds in the game of football—Coach Tony Franklin. A Princeton, Kentucky native, Franklin has spent more than four decades shaping the sport from the ground up. He began his career as a high school coach across several Kentucky programs before joining the University of Kentucky staff in 1997, where he helped engineer one of the most prolific offenses in the nation. After Kentucky, he launched the Tony Franklin System—an offensive approach that revolutionized football at the high school level and beyond. His clinics, camps, and mentorships empowered hundreds of coaches across the country to transform their programs, many going from cellar-dwellers to state contenders. Franklin went on to serve as offensive coordinator at Troy, Auburn, Cal, Middle Tennessee, and Louisiana Tech, coaching in nine bowl games and mentoring standout quarterbacks—including future No. 1 NFL Draft pick Jared Goff. Along the way, he authored two books, built a nationwide coaching network, and became a trusted advisor to some of the game’s most successful coaches. In this episode, Franklin opens up about the early struggles that led to his entrepreneurial breakthrough, how his system sparked a nationwide movement, and why he believes coaching is about much more than Xs and Os. He shares lessons from the sideline, reflections on leadership, and his pride in seeing the ripple effect of his work in communities across the country. Don’t miss this wide-ranging conversation about resilience, innovation, and the lasting power of mentorship in football and beyond.Please note: This episode was recorded via Zoom. Due to some transmission issues early on, the audio and video quality may be poor during the beginning of the interview, but it improves significantly as the episode progresses. We appreciate Coach Franklin for taking the time to join us—and our viewers and listeners for your continued support.

In Episode 47 of Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee, presented by the Swinford Media Group and sponsored by Adrenaline Fundraising, Marion Plumbing, and Swinford Wedding Videography, host Kerry Martin sits down with one of Southern Illinois’ most experienced and respected educators—Rich Williams. A Sparta native with decades of service in coaching and school leadership, Williams has held just about every title in the playbook: head coach, assistant coach, athletic director, college staffer, bass fishing coach, and president of the Southern Illinois Coaches Association—a role he’s held for the past 17 years, making him the longest-serving president in the association’s history. Williams’ journey spans small towns and big impact. He’s coached football and basketball at schools across the region, helped rebuild struggling programs, and launched a football co-op that gave dozens of students the chance to compete for the first time. Known for his steady leadership and student-first approach, he’s spent his career building programs where culture, character, and connection come first. In this episode, Williams reflects on growing up across from the Sparta school bus lot, coaching in places where wins didn’t come easy, and why he’s always believed that effort, integrity, and relationships matter more than the scoreboard. He shares hard-earned lessons from the sideline, the locker room, and the AD’s office—along with stories of community spirit, career pivots, and staying grounded in purpose through every challenge. Whether leading teams or mentoring the next generation of coaches, Rich Williams has devoted his life to making a difference—and his reflections on loyalty, legacy, and love for the game are not to be missed.

In Episode 46 of Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee, presented by the Swinford Media Group and sponsored by Adrenaline Fundraising, Marion Plumbing, and Swinford Wedding Videography, host Kerry Martin sits down with one of Marion’s most accomplished athletes-turned-coaches—Jessie Crabtree. A Marion native and 18-time varsity letter winner, Crabtree excelled in cross country, swim, basketball, track, and soccer before taking her talents to the college level. She began her collegiate career at the University of Missouri and later transferred to Southeast Missouri State, where she was named OVC Player of the Year and helped lead the Redhawks to a conference title. Along the way, she also competed at the semi-pro level and earned her doctorate in optometry—eventually returning home to join her family’s practice while staying close to the game she loves. Now the head coach of Marion High School girls soccer, Crabtree led a young squad to both conference and regional championships in her first season at the helm. Known for her thoughtful leadership, high standards, and player-first approach, she shares how she builds culture, fosters joy, and adapts her coaching style to fit each athlete’s needs. In this episode, Crabtree reflects on growing up in a family of seven siblings, the shift from elite athlete to coach, and how she balances motherhood, coaching, and a full-time career. She also opens up about the pressures and rewards of coaching in her hometown—and the lessons that continue to shape her journey on and off the field. Don’t miss this episode filled with perspective on coaching with purpose, the grind behind greatness, and why joy is a secret weapon for sustained success.

In Episode 45 of Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee, presented by the Swinford Media Group and sponsored by Adrenaline Fundraising, Marion Plumbing, and Swinford Wedding Videography, host Kerry Martin welcomes a hometown legend—Todd Tripp. The longtime head boys basketball coach at Goreville High School, Tripp has quietly become one of the most respected figures in Southern Illinois hoops. A Goreville native and multi-sport athlete at John A. Logan and Berry College, Tripp returned to lead his alma mater in 2004 and has since compiled over 460 wins, 11 conference titles, 8 regional championships, and a state tournament appearance. Known for his team-first culture, relentless defense, and focus on player development, Tripp shares the lessons he’s learned over 20+ seasons—including the heartbreak of a 35-2 campaign cut short by COVID-19 and the evolution of his coaching philosophy. He also reflects on the unique bond between community and program, and how Goreville’s one-building school system helps create a legacy that lives beyond the court. An IBCA Hall of Famer and 2021 IBCA Coach of the Year, Tripp brings a refreshing blend of humility, wisdom, and authenticity. Don’t miss this episode filled with insights on coaching longevity, program culture, and the power of keeping it simple.

In Episode 44 of Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee, presented by the Swinford Media Group. Sponsored by Adrenaline Fundraising, Marion Plumbing, and Swinford Wedding Videography. Host Kerry Martin sits down with one of the winningest coaches in Illinois high school basketball history—Rick Metcalf. Metcalf is a gym rat at heart—born in Bradley, Illinois, where he rose from YMCA regular to 6’7” high school standout and junior college player at Kankakee. Known across Southern Illinois for his longevity, adaptability, and commitment to player development, Coach Metcalf brings over 700 wins, 62 championships, and a coaching career spanning more than four decades to the table. Remarkably, every player under his guidance has experienced at least one championship season. He began his coaching journey as an assistant at Mayville State before taking his first head coaching role at Joppa. From there, he made stops at Kankakee Community College and Murray State University, before a legendary run at Sesser-Valier. He also coached both boys and girls teams at Vienna High School, where he currently leads the girls program. Inducted into the IBCA Hall of Fame, Metcalf’s story is one of grit, passion, and unwavering commitment to his players. Tune in for a conversation full of championship mindset, old-school toughness, and a deep love for the game.

In Episode 43 of ‘Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee,’ presented by the Swinford Media Group and Adrenaline Fundraising, we welcome a true coaching power couple to the table—Nathan and Krystal Emrick of Carterville, Illinois. With decades of experience between them, the Emricks share how their passion for coaching and teaching has not only shaped their careers but also their family and community. Nathan Emrick, Head Volleyball Coach and Social Studies Teacher at Carterville High School, has built a legacy of success on the court. From three state championships in softball during his time at Cobden to leading Carterville volleyball to seven straight regional titles and a sectional championship, Nathan brings a calm, competitive spirit to every team he leads. A former high school multi-sport athlete and SIU baseball player under Coach Dan Callahan, his coaching philosophy is deeply rooted in his own experiences as a student-athlete. Krystal Emrick, a standout three-sport athlete from Nashville High School and former SIU softball player, brings just as much energy and excellence to her role as a coach and educator. A two-time ESPN The Magazine Academic All-American, NCAA Leadership Conference speaker, and winner of the Lincoln Laureate Award, Krystal's resume in both athletics and academics is nothing short of remarkable. She’s coached multiple sports across Southern Illinois and now teaches Physical Education at Carterville High School, where her passion for student success shines through daily. Together, the Emricks share their thoughts on coaching as a team, raising a family of three while balancing packed seasons, and what drives them to keep showing up for their athletes year after year. This is an episode full of heart, hustle, and the kind of wisdom that only comes from living the game. Don’t miss this heartfelt conversation with two coaches who prove that behind every great team is a strong foundation built on love, leadership, and purpose.

In Episode 42 of ‘Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee,’ presented by the Swinford Media Group and Adrenaline Fundraising, host Kerry Martin sits down with Kelly Glass, a legendary high school football coach with an impressive 36-year career. Recorded at the Crown Brew Coffee Shop in Marion, Illinois, this episode dives deep into Kelly’s remarkable journey in the world of football. Kelly, a native of Metropolis, spent 27 years as the head coach of Massac County High School’s football team, securing 132 wins, 13 playoff appearances, and earning a place in the Illinois High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2007. Throughout this candid conversation, Kelly reflects on his transformative impact on the game and the many players he mentored over the years. From his humble beginnings to becoming the longest-running head coach in Southern Illinois, Kelly shares valuable insights and personal stories about his coaching philosophy, leadership, and the unforgettable moments that defined his career. He also opens up about his faith, family life, and love for hunting—showing that his influence stretches far beyond the football field. Be sure to tune in for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation with one of the most respected figures in Southern Illinois football history!

In Episode 41 of 'Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee,' presented by the Swinford Media Group and Adrenaline Fundraising, our host, legendary high school football coach Kerry Martin, welcomes Fred Heinz, a well-known figure in Southern Illinois coaching and teaching, to the Crown Brew Coffee Shop in Marion, Illinois. With a career spanning over 35 years, Fred has made a lasting impact on the region’s athletics. In this episode, Fred reflects on his early years, from growing up in Alabama and Virginia to becoming a multi-sport standout at Carbondale High School. Fred played at SIU Carbondale, where his time as an athlete contributed to his future coaching career. Fred shares the story of his time as head coach at Benton in the 1980s, where he mentored a young Kerry Martin, giving him his first assistant coaching opportunity. The conversation dives into Fred’s coaching journey, including his time at Benton, Carbondale, Murphysboro, and other schools. He also talks about his role in shaping basketball coaching staffs alongside IHSA Hall of Famers. In addition to coaching, Fred’s work in special education and his position as a student teacher coordinator at SIU have made him a pivotal figure in the development of future educators. Tune in to hear an engaging and insightful conversation between these two coaches, filled with stories and experiences that go beyond the football field!

In Episode 40 of Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee, presented by the Swinford Media Group and Adrenaline Fundraising, host Kerry Martin welcomes former Marion Wildcat and FCA Area Representative Austin Dickson to Crown Brew Coffee in Marion, Illinois. A standout athlete at Marion High School, Austin earned All-State honors as an offensive lineman under Coach Martin before continuing his football career at Southern Illinois University. After injuries cut his playing days short, he found new purpose in coaching and ministry, serving as a youth pastor and coaching football at Marion and Benton High Schools. Now, through the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, he mentors young athletes and coaches, helping them grow as leaders both on and off the field. In this episode, Austin and Coach Martin discuss the lessons learned from the game, the role of faith in sports, and the impact of mentorship. They also look ahead to events like the Southern Illinois FCA Fundraiser Banquet in April. It’s a conversation about football, faith, and finding purpose beyond the game.

In Episode 39 of Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee, presented by the Swinford Media Group and Adrenaline Fundraising, host Kerry Martin, Marion's legendary high school football coach, sits down with Darrick Borum, one of the most accomplished athletes in Marion history, at the Crown Brew Coffee Shop in Marion, Illinois. Borum, a standout football player at Marion High School where he earned All-South and First-Team All-Conference honors as both a wide receiver and defensive force, shares insights from his high school career, including his role in leading the Wildcats to a 10-3 record. He also talks about his time at Southeast Missouri State, where he became a three-year starting linebacker and played on their 2010 team, in which is in the SEMO Hall of Fame. He earned OVC Defensive Player of the Week honors and was named College Sporting News FCS National All-Star of the Week. After his playing career, Borum returned to Marion as a coach and now runs Borum Roof Company while raising five kids with his wife, Molly. Tune in for an engaging conversation that spans Borum's athletic achievements, coaching journey, and how he's giving back to his community.

In Episode 38 of Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee, presented by the Swinford Media Group and Adrenaline Fundraising, our host and legendary high school football coach, Kerry Martin sits down via Zoom with Derek Leonard, head football coach at Rochester High School. Leonard has built one of Illinois’ premier high school football programs, leading the Rockets to multiple state championships while surpassing 200 career victories. The son of Hall of Fame coach Ken Leonard—Illinois’ all-time winningest high school football coach—Derek has followed in his father’s footsteps, crafting one of the state’s most explosive offenses. Under his leadership, Rochester has consistently dominated both the regular season and the playoffs. Beyond the X’s and O’s, Leonard is deeply involved in mentoring and leadership programs within the Rochester community. He credits his success to the players, coaches, and mentors who shaped his journey. Off the field, he shares his life with his wife, Lindsey, and their two children, Blake and Austin. Don’t miss this conversation with one of Illinois’ top high school football coaches!

In Episode 37 of Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee, presented by the Swinford Media Group and Adrenaline Fundraising, our host and legendary high school football coach, Kerry Martin, sits down with Marion High School Track and Field and Cross Country coaches—Chico Castellano, Glen Gibbons, and Scott Gill. For 46 years, Glen Gibbons shaped Marion High School’s track and field program, coaching 27 All-State athletes and future Olympians. A Marion native and co-founder of the Swamp Fox youth track club, he dedicated his life to mentoring young athletes, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the sport and community. Chico Castellano, longtime pole vault coach, took over as head boys track & field coach in 2021, leading the program to several successful seasons before stepping into his current role as assistant coach under newly hired Eli Baker. Scott Gill took over as Marion’s cross country coach in 2022, guiding the Wildcats to a historic state championship—the first ever for a Southern Illinois team. He also coached record-breaking runner Dylon Nalley, now competing at Indiana University. Don’t miss this episode with three incredible coaches!

In Episode 36 of 'Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee,' presented by the Swinford Media Group and Adrenaline Fundraising, our host and legendary high school football coach, Kerry Martin, sits down with Hall of Fame broadcaster and longtime Voice of the SIU Salukis, Mike Reis, at the Crown Brew Coffee Shop in Marion, Illinois. A 1978 SIU Radio-TV graduate, Reis called many of the greatest moments in the history of Saluki Athletics, including the 1983 I-AA National Championship football season, men's basketball trips to the Sweet 16 in 2002 and 2007, and the 1977 College World Series as a student broadcaster. In total, he called 501 SIU football games and 1,325 Saluki basketball games. This episode highlights Reis's remarkable career, from his beginnings at WSIU Radio and WSIU-TV in 1975 to his tenure as a full-time sportscaster at WCIL Radio starting in 1978. Along the way, he earned countless accolades, including the prestigious 2024 Woody Durham Voice of College Sports Award. Reis also shares reflections on the great coaches he interacted with throughout his career, offering unique insights into their impact on Saluki Athletics. Be sure to tune in to this engaging conversation!

We’re back from our holiday break! In Episode 35 of Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee, presented by the Swinford Media Group and Adrenaline Fundraising, host Kerry Martin sits down with Kerri Blaylock, the all-time winningest coach in both Southern Illinois University softball and Saluki Athletics history, at the Crown Brew Coffee Shop in Marion, Illinois. A native of Herrin, Illinois, Blaylock reflects on her legendary career at SIU, where she compiled a 751-413-1 record and led the Salukis to eight NCAA Tournament appearances, including five-straight trips from 2003 to 2007. She guided SIU to the 2021 Missouri Valley Conference Tournament title and 18 30-win seasons, including a program-best 47 wins in 2005. Her teams consistently ranked among the nation’s best in team GPA, with 11 top-five finishes since 2001. Blaylock became the fastest coach in MVC history to reach 500 wins and later became SIU’s all-time winningest coach in 2018. In 2024, she joined John A. Logan Softball as a volunteer assistant coach. In this engaging conversation, Kerry and Kerri discuss her incredible journey, the moments that defined her coaching career, and her lasting legacy in Southern Illinois softball. Tune in for an inspiring look into the life of one of the sport’s most influential coaches.

In Episode 34 of “Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee,” presented by the Swinford Media Group and Adrenaline Fundraising, our host Kerry Martin sits down with long-time hitting instructor and baseball coach Bob Simpson. Currently the assistant baseball coach at the United States Sports Academy, Simpson brings over 35 years of collegiate playing and coaching experience to the table. A Harrisburg, Illinois native, Simpson's baseball journey began at Southeastern Illinois College, where he earned two all-conference selections and an all-region nod, before continuing at the University of Arkansas - Little Rock. After his playing days, Simpson’s coaching career took him from Southeastern Illinois to Berry College, where his teams achieved 4th and 7th place finishes nationally in the NAIA. He later founded Future Swings Hitting Academy in Marion, Illinois, mentoring over 500 athletes who advanced to play collegiate baseball or softball. His impressive resume includes serving as an Associate Scout for the New York Mets, throwing batting practice for the St. Louis Cardinals, and working with MLB hitters at Frozen Ropes Hitting Facility in Arizona. Simpson has also made an impact as Head Baseball Coach at Rend Lake College, where 12 of his players moved on to four-year schools. He founded Hit Repair Hitting Academy in Marion, worked with Next Level Instructional Baseball in Nashville, and coached in the Nashville Knights organization. For the past two summers, he served as hitting coach for the Thrillville Thrillbillies in the Prospect League, helping the team secure two division championships. In addition to coaching on the field, Simpson has spent over 15 years working the baseball camp circuit, including camps at Vanderbilt University, the University of Illinois, and Southern Illinois University. He has even traveled to Puerto Rico to coach an American team. Don't miss this fascinating conversation with one of the most experienced baseball minds in the game!

In Episode 33 of “Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee,” presented by the Swinford Media Group and Adrenaline Fundraising, our host Kerry Martin sits down with Benton High School’s head football coach, Justin Groves. A Benton native, Groves grew up in a coal miner’s household, where he learned the meaning of hard work early on. As a student-athlete, he shined on the football field and in track, competing during a golden era of Benton football under Coach Jeff Roper. He played a key role on Benton’s first-ever playoff team in the 1995-96 season, highlighted by an upset victory over top-ranked Robinson in the opening round. After high school, Groves played football at Millikin University before transitioning to a career in education and coaching. He returned to Benton as an assistant coach under Jeff Roper, later joined Marion’s staff for a season with our host, Kerry Martin, and eventually served at Johnston City under Dan Mings. In 2018, Groves took the reins as Benton’s head coach, leading the program to remarkable success. Over seven seasons, he’s earned a 47-23 record, won four conference titles, made five playoff appearances, and twice been named Coach of the Year, including during the COVID spring season and in Fall 2021. He also guided Benton to the quarterfinals in both 2021 and this season. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation as Justin Groves shares his journey, achievements, and dedication to Benton football!