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!