Coach and Coordinator Podcast

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

On this episode of Coach and Coordinator Podcast, we sit down with Jason Eck to explore the real-life balance between coaching, family, leadership and the evolving world of youth sports. Eck reflects on the importance of family alignment in every coaching decision from career moves to the daily demands of the season and how being present at home strengthens his effectiveness on the field. He discusses why making youth sports enjoyable is essential for long-term development, and how positive role models shape athletes far beyond the game. Eck also shares strategies for involving family in the coaching process, maintaining connection during stressful stretches, and building a coaching philosophy rooted in service and purpose. Throughout the conversation, he opens up about the lessons learned across his career, the impact of coaching on personal relationships, and the legacy he hopes to leave as both a coach and a father. This episode offers a grounded and inspiring look at what it truly means to lead with intention and with family at the center. Chapters Introduction to Coaching Philosophy Balancing Family and Coaching Life The Role of a Coach's Wife Raising a Family in Coaching Navigating Career Moves and Family Decisions Balancing Family and Coaching Responsibilities Navigating Job Changes and Family Dynamics Maintaining Connection During the Season Lessons from Struggles in Family and Coaching Creating a Legacy Through Coaching Introduction to Jason Eck's Journey Leadership and Culture in Coaching Utilizing the Culture OS Companion Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: ⁠@CoachKGrabowski Jason Eck: @Coach_Eck 🌐 coachandcoordinator.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Keith pulls together short teaching moments from Andy Reid, Bob Wylie, Dante Scarnecchia, and Jon Gruden to highlight the coaching wisdom that shaped generations of offensive line coaches. These clips go beyond technique—they reveal how great coaches think, prepare, teach, and adapt. Keith breaks down each lesson and shows how these ideas connect to the learning environment inside the Mushroom Society, including new tools, partner integrations, and the AI Mentors built from COOL Clinic presentations. If you’re looking for practical guidance and a deeper way to grow your offensive line unit, this episode is a strong place to start. Join the Mushroom Society at: mushroom-society.com Use the Mushroom Society AI Mentor for free here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s Game Planning Tips, Coach Keith Grabowski shares three playoff-critical concepts that tighten your game plan and sharpen your team’s edge when every possession matters. Andrew Sowder opens the episode with a clear approach to situational football—how to build and use a complete situational chart, when to make two-point decisions, how to practice post-touchdown mechanics, and why your two-point menu must be ready before the season’s biggest moments. Siddiq Haynes, Defensive Line Coach and Run Game Coordinator at UTSA, breaks down his QB Window Evaluation—a four-window system for studying sack locations, scramble tendencies, completion patterns, and where the quarterback is most vulnerable. It’s a simple, repeatable way to target your pass-rush plan instead of guessing. Garrett McLaughlin, Defensive Line Coach and Special Teams Coordinator at Columbia, closes the episode with a framework for quantifying hidden yardage. He explains how he grades punt net, kickoff start lines, explosives, and sting punts so players finally see the kicking game through the same lens as offense and defense. Presented by Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation: Supporting pediatric brain tumor research and families impacted by cancer through football. Learn more or get involved at laurensfirstandgoal.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of National Coach of the Week, presented by Modern Football Technology, Keith Grabowski sits down with Eric Kjar, head coach of Utah powerhouse Corner Canyon HS, fresh off another state championship. This year’s title marks six championships in the last eight seasons, a run that has firmly established Corner Canyon as one of the premier high school football programs in America. Ranked among the top teams in the nation, Coach Kjar’s Chargers continue to raise the standard through elite practice habits, consistent accountability, and a culture of toughness that shows up every Friday night. In this conversation, Coach Kjar shares how his staff responded to early-season adversity, how they refined their practice structure, and how their players elevated their performance when it mattered most. It’s a detailed look inside one of the country’s most successful programs and what it takes to compete at a national level year after year. Chapters Returning Champion: Six Titles in Eight Years Staff, Support, and the Power of Teamwork Competing Nationally and Early Adversity The Turning Point: Practice Standards and Accountability Raising Effort Across the Entire Roster The Importance of Measurable Standards Accountability Systems That Work You Can’t Scheme Toughness: Winning the Rematch Becoming a National Program Preparing for the ESPN Showcase Game Game Details and Broadcast Information Closing Thoughts and Gratitude Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Eric Kjar: @KjarEric Modern Football Technology: @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

Brian Kight is back on the show, and this time we get into something most coaches talk about but rarely build: a staff and team that can actually tell each other the truth. We look at why honesty fades during the grind of a season, how communication can get sideways in a staff room, and what leaders can do to fix it. BK walks through the standards he uses with the teams he works with and explains why being able to take the truth matters more than how cleanly it’s delivered. He gives real examples and simple steps any coach can start using right away. If you want your program to communicate better, reduce hidden tension, and handle challenging moments with more confidence, this episode will point you in the right direction. Chapters Introduction and Catching Up with Brian Kight The Importance of Daily Discipline Embracing Change in Coaching Doesn't Matter, Get Better Mindset The Culture of Truth-Telling in Coaching Establishing Standards for Communication Building Trust and Courage in Conversations The Importance of Reflection and Feedback Using AI as a Thought Partner Understanding Cause and Effect in Coaching The Role of Truth in Team Dynamics Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Brian Kight: @TBrianKight Sign-up for BK's Daily Discipline: https://www.dailydiscipline.com/ BK's website: https://www.tbriankight.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s Game Planning Tips, Coach Keith Grabowski brings you three coaches with practical, teachable ideas you can use immediately in your game plan. Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation presents Game Planning Tips. On offense, Jason Mangone, Head Coach at Brockport, shows how to attack an odd front with a downhill inside zone plan. He explains box identification, numbering linebackers, handling movement, and preparing for the three pressures you must block to run the ball with confidence. On defense, Kevin Doherty, Defensive Coordinator at Georgetown, breaks down the Hoya Five-Star Plan — a clear, disciplined framework built on vision, standards, daily fundamentals, and the traits that define elite defensive play. On special teams, Dan Swanstrom, Head Coach at Cornell, covers the special situations that decide games: fair-catch and straddle rules, blocked punt scenarios, momentum plays, hands-team responsibilities, and end-of-game decisions every team must be ready for. Supporting pediatric brain tumor research and families affected by cancer through football. Learn more or register for this year’s clinics at laurensfirstandgoal.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Hansen Ratings D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week, presented by Tully, hosts Logan and John bring together three powerful coaching conversations that highlight the heart, craft, and leadership behind Division III football. The episode opens with Mary Hardin-Baylor OC Stephen Lee, who reflects on the mentors and experiences that shaped both his coaching identity and his “Frankenstein-type offense.” Lee shares how figures such as Vance Gibson, Phil Fuller, Don Cartho, and Pete Fredenberg influenced his approach, and why mentorship and personal growth remain cornerstones of his career. Next, Carthage DC Adam Weber discusses the challenge of simplifying defensive schemes while still maximizing player performance. Weber explains how flexibility and adapting to player strengths helped his unit “play really fast,” offering a grounded perspective on the evolving demands of modern defensive coaching. Finally, Geneva Head Coach Geno DeMarco dives into the deeper responsibilities of leadership, transparency, accountability, and the courage to face challenges head-on. DeMarco highlights the importance of open communication among staff, creating supportive environments, and taking responsibility when adversity strikes. Across offense, defense, and program leadership, this episode provides a multi-angle look at coaching philosophy, team dynamics, and the ongoing pursuit of excellence at the Division III level. Chapters Introduction by Logan and John; overview of the three featured coaches. Stephen Lee discusses his early coaching influences and foundational mentors. Lee breaks down his “Frankenstein type offense” and how his philosophy evolved over time. Insights from Lee on mentorship, growth, and the coaches who molded his career. Adam Weber explains the challenge of simplifying defensive schemes for player success. Weber talks about adapting strategies, collaborating with other coaches, and improving defensive speed. Weber reflects on player dynamics, flexibility in coaching, and continuous adjustment. Geno DeMarco introduces his leadership approach and the value of transparency among coaches. DeMarco discusses facing challenges, taking responsibility, and building trust within staff. Closing reflections from DeMarco on culture, accountability, and the future of coaching. Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski John Snell: @jsnellbwfb Logan Hansen: @LogHanRatings Stephen Lee: @coach_slee Adam Weber: @ACWEB33 Geno DeMarco: @genodemarcoHFC Presented by Tully — the perfect tool for high school and Division III programs. Tully helps coaches track readiness, performance, and player development so teams can stay strong and confident deep into the season. Learn more at tully.app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo episode, Keith Grabowski reflects on a powerful idea he discovered only recently when his son shared Rick Rubin’s book The Creative Act. What began as a conversation about hitting and baseball opened the door to a much larger truth about coaching and the offseason. Every winter and spring, coaches get flooded with ideas. Clinics, articles, cut-ups, and social feeds offer endless “solutions” and new ways to install, practice, and teach. Instead of clarity, the volume often leads to confusion. Keith breaks down the Rubin excerpt that stopped him in his tracks and explains how the principles of creativity apply directly to football coaching. He shares the lessons he learned over years of trial and error and why philosophy—not information—is the real filter that allows coaches to grow without becoming overwhelmed. You’ll leave this episode with a clear, practical way to approach the offseason, evaluate new ideas, and build a system grounded in what you believe, not what everyone else is doing. If you want to start the offseason with purpose, this episode will help you cut through the noise and create with clarity. See the video version on Spotify or at coachandcoordinator.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices