For The Good Of The Game

FTGOTG S2, E16 | Welcome to another "Special Feature" episode!  In addition to being outstanding coaches on the field and awesome leaders off the field, our over-achieving guests this week also host their own podcasts...through which they entertain and contribute to the education of the larger coaching community!Coach Darrin Sheffer is an Earth Science teacher and the Offensive Line Coach & Run Game Coordinator for Brentsville District High School in Nokesville, Virginia.  He is the host of the Armchair Coaching Podcast on Anchor, by Spotify.  Coach Sheffer started the Armchair Coaching Podcast in August 2020 doing Power 5 "Program Profiles."  He is passionate about triple-option football and loves watching the US Service Academy programs.  His 80+ shows offer a wide variety of football-related topics!Coach Steve Kuchefski is the Asst Girls Track & Field Coach and Asst Boys Basketball Coach at Neuqua Valley High School in Naperville, Illinois; as well as an Asst Varsity Football Coach at Addison Trail High School in Addison, Illinois.  Despite coaching three different sports, Coach Steve makes time to host the Coach Steve Show (podcast).  The Coach Steve Show began in February 2020 with a great pilot entitled "Why Can't We Be Friends," which asked the tough question...  "Why is there so much hating between coaches?"  With over 130 episodes to date, Coach Steve covers a diverse array of football topics in addition to everything from Wandavision to Fighting Illini basketball!In today's fast-paced world, I'm continually impressed by coaches who make time to follow their passion (helping young student-athletes grow) and share their craft with others.  Whether the intent is to entertain or educate, these podcasts share information from which other coaches may benefit.  Their energy and efforts are commendable and appreciated!Intro music "Next Level" used under license by Composer Rujay Torres.

FTGOTG S2, E15 | Throughout the last decade, we've seen a consistent drop in participation in Youth Sports.  For a variety of reasons, kids often drop out...or simply choose not to engage.  During this third "Special Feature" episode, we explore some of the more salient reasons why this "gap" in participation exists and some potential solutions to the problem.While many individuals and organizations are actively involved in both researching and solving the reasons behind lagging participation, few have the experience of our guests in Episode 15.  Approaching the issues from two divergent perspectives, Matthew Young and Stephen Griffin offer their insights into the problem, as well as their opinions on how we might fix it!Matthew Young is the founder of Quality Sport Hub, a Vancouver-based company dedicated to providing a pathway to a quality sports experience for athletes, parents, and coaches!  He is an accomplished athlete, father and family man, entrepreneur, keynote speaker and servant leader.  Matt's passion for sport is demonstrated in how he approaches life in both word and deed!  He has been recognized as a Top 40 Under 40 Award Winner in both Vancouver (regionally) and Canada (Nationally).  You can find out more about Matthew and his company at Quality Sport Hub.Stephen Griffin is an author, investor, and intuitive business leader.  He is a graduate of both Providence College (B.A.) and the University of Rhode Island (Masters in Accountancy).  Steve is a former CPA who has lived in the world of private equity and has invested in and been active across a number of industries; most recently focused on the sports industry.  His experiences in the sports industry led him to write FRONT ROW SEAT -  Greed and Corruption in a Youth Sports Company.  The book explores the growth of the Youth Sports market and some of the characters who seek to exploit it.  Learn more about Stephen's experience by reading FRONT ROW SEAT (available on Amazon).For The Good Of The Game is part of the Sports History Network!Intro music "Next Level" used under license by Composer Rujay Torres.

FTGOTG S2, E14 | If you live in Western Pennsylvania, you attended Edinboro University or you're a huge Canadian Football League (CFL) fan, you're probably familiar with the Harris brothers.  Just in case you don't fit these categories, this interview will help you out!  Episode 14 is a "snapshot" look into the lives of these football brothers, both on and off the field.Trevor Harris is currently the starting Quarterback for the Edmonton Eskimos of the CFL.  He will be playing in his ninth CFL season when the league restarts in 2021.  Following his career at Edinboro, Trevor spent time in the NFL, then with the Toronto Argonauts and Ottowa Redblacks of the CFL, prior to signing with Edmonton.  Trevor is a 2-time Harlen Hill Trophy finalist and a 2-time Gray Cup Champion (2012 & 2016).Cody Harris, who succeeded Trevor as Quarterback at Edinboro, was a 2-time All PSAC West honoree.  Cody works in the Health Services industry as a Physician's Assistant in Ohio.  Despite having "pro-level" talent, Cody chose to continue his Post-Graduate schooling and pursue a career as a PA, which he felt was his calling.Each of the Harris brothers was a standout leader, both on and off the High School field at Marion Pleasant HS in Ohio.  If that weren't enough, they also rewrote the football record books at Division II Edinboro University in Pennsylvania.  Trevor and Cody are either #1 or #2 in sixteen statistical categories and are #1 and #2 in seven of those sixteen!As often happens, great young men have their roots in great homes!  Never has this been more true than with Trevor and Cody, growing up in an All-American family and strong Christian environment led by parents Tom and Suzanne Harris!  It has been my distinct pleasure to meet Tom, Suzanne, and Trevor...and get to know Cody, as a friend and roommate of my youngest son.  I'm equally pleased to share this candid interview with the Harris brothers!Intro music "Next Level" used under license by Composer Rujay Torres. 

FTGOTG S2, E13 | Melanie Redd is unique as a female Strength & Conditioning Coach but that alone doesn't draw clients!  What does is her reputation and blend of complementary skills and qualifications!  Episode 13 is an inside look at how she started and the relationships she builds as she continues her journey.Coach Melanie Redd is a strength & conditioning expert, certified speed & agility coach, functional movement expert, and the owner of Melanie Redd Performance Training.  Coach Mel has been helping people achieve optimal strength and performance for over a decade and has developed and coached performance and strength programs for athletes and adults around the world!She is the Head Strength & Conditioning Coach for Chaminade Julienne HS and oversees strength and conditioning programs for all sports.  Coach Mel is best known for her work in football, however, her mission is to get all athletes from all sports in weight rooms across the country.Finally, Melanie is skilled in Sport Coach Education, helping coaches around the globe execute safe and effective programs via her platform entitled the MRPT Performance Pack.You can find her online at… www.mrperformancetraining.com andon Facebook at… www.facebook.com/mrperformancetraining/ andfollow her on Twitter at... @coach_mel-reddIntro music "Next Level" used under license by Composer Rujay Torres.

FTGOTG S2, E12 |  I'm excited to share our second "Special Feature" episode with two widely recognized leaders in the Youth Sports industry...Heath Eslinger and Gordon MacLelland.  Both gentlemen present perspectives on developing relationships with parents and coaches, but from different geographic and cultural areas.Gordon MacLelland is the CEO of Working With Parents In Sport, a UK-based company that works with Sporting Organizations to help parents and coaches navigate the difficulties they face in today's environment.  Gordon is the author of three books: Two Hats - a book for parent coaches who are coaching or thinking of coaching their own children; Great Sports Parenting - a pocket guide for parents of children in sport; and Engage - a coaches' guide to building positive relationships with parents.You can learn more about Gordon and Working With Parents In Sport at...https://www.parentsinsport.co.uk/Heath Eslinger is the Director of Business Development for A Better Way Athletics, a US-based company in Cleveland, TN (just outside of Chattanooga).  Heath's experience as both a High School and Div-1 wrestling coach afforded him the opportunity to see the "problem areas" in sports culture from the inside-out.  Now, as both a leader and gifted speaker, he travels and shares his contagious message of A Better Way to engage, educate and train both parents and coaches.  A Better Way Athletics offers a sophisticated platform and multiple curriculums for both parents and coaches to help them evolve and positively impact the young people they support!You can learn more about Heath and A Better Way Athletics at...https://www.abetterwayathletics.com/While many individuals and organizations recognize the need for change, these gentlemen and their companies are leading the charge in changing the Youth Sports landscape.  Their perspectives are both unique and refreshing...and they provide a practical "way ahead" as we emerge from the pandemic and begin to reshape the future!Intro music "Next Level" used under license by Composer Rujay Torres.

FTGOTG S2, E11 | These self-proclaimed "Seminole brothers for life" epitomize our theme of relationships for Season 2!  This candid interview with former Florida State cornerbacks Bobby Jackson (BoJack) and Bobby Butler demonstrates how strong bonds formed in the locker room and on the field can last a lifetime!Bobby Jackson didn't start playing "organized" football until he got into high school.  His natural talent and help from a high school teammate vaulted him into an opportunity at Florida State...an opportunity he maximized, to say the least.  He was drafted by the New York Jets in the 6th round of the 1978 NFL Draft and started all 16 games of his rookie season!  BoJack was ultimately selected to the "All-Time Jet Team" as one of the top three corners in the history of the New York Jets.  He finished his Jets career with 21 interceptions.  After a brief stay with the Atlanta Falcons and an untimely injury, he retired in 1986.  His stellar career at FSU ('74-'77) earned him induction into the FSU Hall of Fame in 1993.  Bobby Butler chose Florida State based on a single (unofficial) visit and a very impactful conversation with Coach Bobby Bowden.  In his mind, he felt playing at FSU for Coach Bowden was "meant to be."  As it turned out, the example and mentorship shown by BoJack were hugely instrumental in Bobby's long-term success...at FSU and in the NFL.  He was selected by the Atlanta Falcons with the 25th overall pick in the 1st round of the 1981 NFL Draft.  Bobby played his entire 12-year career with the Falcons, playing in 169 games during which he accumulated 27 interceptions!  He retired after the 1992 season.Despite being smaller athletes, both men possessed world-class speed and were known for ferocity in their manner of play.  While they were fortunate to play for legendary head coach Bobby Bowden at the beginning of his FSU career, they leveraged the opportunity to achieve success.  Both BoJack and Bobby excelled in the system and culture under Coach Bowden and created their respective niche...each in his own class!Intro music "Next Level" used under license by Composer Rujay Torres.

FTGOTG S2, E10 | Episode 10 features my interview with Professional Sports Agent and author J. Drew Pittman.  As a principal for Shark Sports Management, his clients include both professional athletes and coaches.  Drew allows his faith and relationship with God to guide his life and professional endeavors.  His integrity and authenticity have allowed him to be highly successful despite being part of an industry known more for slick, smooth-talking (sometimes greedy) extroverts!  (thank you Jerry Maguire, aka Tom Cruise)As fellow Texans and alumni of JJ Pearce HS in Richardson, Drew and I got reacquainted after over 43 years as members of a Zoom Bible study.  I was interested in speaking to him about his book First Team Dad, but also the magnitude of "relationships" within his business.  We explore how the book came to be and the unique way he "tested" the principles, prior to publication.  Drew's transparency in the book and during our chat point to why he's managed to be so successful.Becoming a Professional Sports Agent was a natural move for Drew, if not part of his destiny.  As a D-1 Soccer athlete at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, Drew excelled in sports.  He was also blessed to marry Layne Teaff Pittman, daughter of legendary Baylor University (football) Head Coach, Grant Teaff.  His understanding of the game, while valuable, became almost secondary to his reputation as an honest, hard-working family man and Christian.Drew's clients, as well as readers (of his book), benefit from his experience and wisdom.  His 28 years as a successful Sports Agent speaks for itself, but his faith and family relationship are contributors to that success!  I strongly endorse First Team Dad and highly recommend it to parents interested in building a stronger family...whether in or out of sports!First Team Dad, Your Playbook for a Winning Family  - by J. Drew PittmanIntro music "Next Level" used under license by Composer Rujay Torres.

FTGOTG S2, E9 | I'm pleased to share this "Special Feature" episode...an interview with three coaches who are not only standout leaders and prolific authors, but also host their own Podcasts / YouTube channels!Coach Kenny Simpson is the head football coach at Searcy HS in Searcy, AR.  Prior to Searcy, he helped rebuild and grow two programs...as the head football coach at Southside Charter HS and before that as the head coach at Alabama Christian Academy!  Coach Simpson is an innovative coach and prolific author, having published five books to date.  He provides a wealth of instruction and conducts super-informative interviews on his YouTube channel.  Not only is Kenny an awesome family man, but he is also a tireless promoter of the game and dedicated to helping coaches improve! Coach Dustin Mills is a Social Studies teacher and the head football coach at James M. Bennett HS in Salisbury, MD.  He hosts the Anchor Down Leadership Podcast, where he discussed such life skills topics as Mindset, Mental Health, Respect, and Problem Solving.  Dustin also owns Anchor Down Leadership Consulting...dedicated to developing high-level, value-based leaders, who will impact and grow their organizations.  Coach Mills promotes five "anchors of leadership," which include: Selflessness, Commitment & Competency, Respect in Relationships, Positivity, and Ownership!Coach Anthony Stone is a PE teacher at Gregory Elementary and a varsity assistant coach at Boylan Catholic HS in Rockford, IL.  He has coached at every level of football from youth through College.  Anthony hosts the Coach Stone Podcast on JC Hawks Radio and publishes the Quarterly Digital CSF Magazine!  He hosts the Coach Stone Football: Back to the Basics YouTube channel and is the author of the Back to the Basics football drill manual series.  And if that isn't enough, he also runs a Back to the Basics football camp series which has been featured across the United States and Internationally!While many coaches struggle to accomplish all their routine daily tasks, these coaches go above and beyond training athletes...to grow the game and develop coaches!  They each set a standard of professional excellence for other coaches to emulate!Intro music "Next Level" used under license by Composer Rujay Torres.

FTGOTG S2, E8 | After hearing Episode 8, many listeners may agree that it was Coach Nathan McPeek's "destiny" to coach football.  His grandfather started the youth football league in their hometown and served as an official for many years.  Coach McPeek's dad coached him in Little League and one of his Uncles was a head football coach for over 20 years.  Even Coach McPeek's mother was an avid football fan!  If modeling behavior and environment play a significant role in our development as we grow up...Coach McPeek is walking proof of those influences!Nathan McPeek played his High School football at Russell HS in Kentucky and was a tri-sport athlete, playing basketball and football, as well as pursuing field events in track.  Despite offers for track scholarships, he chose to pursue his true love (football) and play for the Marshall University Thundering Herd.   Coach McPeek set the standard for reliability and availability while at Marshall, achieving recognition for 52 straight starts during his college career!  Following his career at Marshall, he got a look from the NFL's Green Bay Packers, but ultimately chose to begin coaching HS Football in 2004.In his 18-year career as a football coach, Nathan McPeek has shared his energy and expertise with athletes at Boyd County HS (KY), Fairview HS (KY), Tucker HS (GA), Bryan Station HS (KY), and since 2017 at Frederick Douglass HS in Lexington, KY...first as the Offensive Coordinator and now as Head Coach!  He is 70-15 in seven seasons as a Head Coach and has had the honor of coaching 20+ athletes who've gone on to play Division 1 football.What is evident throughout this interview is the degree to which Coach McPeek loves the game and his athletes.  He works tirelessly to "give back" to the game, leveraging his relationships to assist in the development and recruitment of his players.  He truly goes "above and beyond" to assist the Frederick Douglass athletic community!  Coach Nathan McPeek is not only a credit to Bronco Nation, but to the coaching profession and the game of football!Intro music "Next Level" used under license by Composer Rujay Torres.

FTGOTG S2, E7 | Episode 7 demonstrates why the game of football and the coaching profession are a perfect marriage.  Our conversation with Coaches Art Kehoe and Mark Evans is not just about University of Miami football.  It's a celebration of the memories and respect two colleagues (former coach and player) can build and maintain!Coach Art Kehoe played as a 2-year letterman and Captain at the University of Miami.  He began his coaching career as a Student Assistant for the Canes in 1981, while finishing up his degree.  Art spent the next 20+ years working his way up through the staff at Miami, culminating with being the Assistant Head Coach & OL Coach from 2002 - 2005.  He's had the honor and privilege of coaching All-Conference honorees, All-Americans, as well as Outland and Remington Trophy award winners...not to mention the 20+ players he coached and mentored on their way to playing in the NFL.  Coach Kehoe was on the staff for all five of Miami's National Championships and he was appropriately enshrined in the UM Athletic Hall of Fame in 2002!Coach Mark Evans is a School Counselor and the current Head Football Coach at Manheim Township HS in Lebanon, PA.  With 23+ years as a Counselor and High School Head Coach, he has accumulated a tremendous track record of success both on and off the field.  The students and athletes who join Mark's "huddle" benefit from his experience, calm demeanor, as well as his confident, caring approach.  Coach Evans' start in football was anything but typical, having played only his Senior year in High School.  After graduating, he ventured to Scottsdale Community College in Arizona to hone his skills and seek opportunities.  Mark's hard work and relative improvement garnered multiple D-1 offers, but he chose to join "The U" to pursue his college career.  His friendship with Coach Kehoe began in Arizona during a recruiting visit and (as they say)...the rest is history!Regardless of how long they go between conversations, these two maintain a strong bond of respect for one another.  Their relationship is emblematic of the trust and loyalty that is possible in the great game of football...two competitors learning and growing together, each changing the game...and the world in his own unique way!Intro music "Next Level" used under license by Composer Rujay Torres.

FTGOTG S2, E6 | What makes Episode 6 so special is three coaches who began their relationship over 40 years ago as "player & coach(es)."  Coach Terry Shea (AC) and Coach Bill Laveroni (OL) were on the staff at Utah State when Coach (then player) Craig Rigsbee arrived to play O-line for the Aggies!  From Utah State, each of these remarkable men pursued their passion for the game in different ways and with different teams.Coming from humble beginnings, Craig Rigsbee made it his mission to assist athletes from under-served and disadvantaged communities.  His service to the football community, spanning 37 years at Butte Community College in California, is both remarkable and praiseworthy.  Coach Rigsbee personally altered the life course of thousands of student-athletes with his brand of caring both on and off the field.  He credits much of his success in doing so, to his past coaches...including Coach Shea and Coach Laveroni.Bill Laveroni, who played Center at Cal, got his start coaching HS football, but soon joined the college ranks and eventually spent six seasons with the Seattle Seahawks.  His long-term friendship with Terry Shea would lead to four separate tours on the same staff, although with different teams.  During the interview, both coaches address this progression as the result of both trust and loyalty. Terry Shea, who played QB at Oregon, began his career as a Grad Asst at his Alma Mater.  As his reputation for great results grew, he moved through several assistant coaching positions to eventually serve as the Head Coach at both San Jose State and Rutgers Universities.  His excellence as a QBs Coach landed him in the NFL ranks for eight years and the privilege of serving with four different teams.  Today, he trains and consults as a "QB Guru" with teams and individuals of all ages, preparing the next generation of superstars!This interview is special, based on the unique relationship shared by these three coaches.  There is no doubt that any number of young coaches and student-athletes will benefit by hearing their sage wisdom.  Enjoy the listen!Intro music "Next Level" used under license by Composer Rujay Torres.

FTGOTG S2, E5 | Episode 5 features a "coach & player relationship" that began during the 1982/83 season at DeMatha Catholic HS.  A great interview with legendary Head Football Coach Bill McGregor and NFL Alumnus JB Brown (Dolphins DB), sharing what makes football and student life at DeMatha Catholic HS so special.For Coach McGregor, it starts with the faculty and administration and extends throughout the school and community.  The "it" in this case is clear and consistent communication!  For JB Brown it was understanding and living up to the standards and expectations set forth within the long-standing culture at DeMatha.Both men discuss the value and stress the importance of "relationships" in setting the foundation for long-term success.  Relationships grounded in a faith-based environment and nurtured through the platform of football...to produce great results on the field and better men in "life after the game!"Intro music "Next Level" used under license by Composer Rujay Torres.

Episode 4 features Coach June Jones, renowned champion of the "run-and-shoot" offense.  His introduction to the run-and-shoot took place as a player at Portland State University under head coach Mouse Davis.  He has since, enjoyed success at every level of football from high school up through the NFL, teaching and employing those same principles.Coach June Jones' career is unique in that he had stops as a player, assistant coach, and head coach in both college (at the University of Hawaii) and in the NFL (with the Atlanta Falcons).  The perspective he gained through these experiences has served him well in getting "buy-in" from players at every stop...to maximize the fun and potential of the run-and-shoot!  I caught up with Coach Jones from his home in Hawaii and had a great conversation about all things run and shoot, as well as his insights on "relationships."Intro music "Next Level" used under license by Composer Rujay Torres.

FTGOTG S2, E3 | During their time together in Buffalo, Bruce Smith and Ted Cottrell developed a bond that would ultimately lead Bruce to the Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. This interview offers some unique insights into their relationship and how the game of football provides opportunities for such growth...even at the professional level.Coming out of Virginia Tech, Bruce Smith entered the NFL as the number one overall pick in 1985, so there was immediate pressure to perform! His early days in Buffalo weren't always smooth, but the calming presence and mentorship provided by his coach (Ted Cottrell) helped Bruce Smith thrive and become the dominant force on the Bills defense.Their relationship demonstrates how trust and confidence can turn a love for the game into true passion. It also proves that while superior talent is important, the value of trusted communication and team culture cannot be understated. In the end, their mutual love and respect led Bruce to invite Ted to introduce and present him at his NFL Hall of Fame induction in Canton.Intro music "Next Level" used under license by Composer Rujay Torres.

FTGOTG S2, E2 | Episode 2 features my interview with Coach Bill Curry.  Inspired by his video, entitled "The Huddle," our theme for Season 2 is "Relationships."  This episode leads off with The Huddle, to set the stage for not only the interview, but subsequent episodes.Coach Curry is the consumate storyteller and engages in a marvelous interview.  Sharing recollections of events and people that influenced his playing and coaching career, as well as his life.  His interactions with College and NFL personalities is like a walk through football history...names such as Bart Starr, Willie Davis, Vince Lombardi, Don Shula and others.The lessons learned from a lifetime in football and the relationships he built, make for a great interview...and one that I will always cherish.  I hope you enjoy watching this episode as much as I enjoyed creating it!Intro music "Next Level" used under license by Composer Rujay Torres.

The "pilot" episode (E1) for Season 2 features my interview with Anthony Munoz (HoF98) & Coach Jim McNally. This awesome duo shares stories about their 13 seasons together with the Cincinnati Bengals.Since our "theme" for Season 2 is "Relationships," I though it appropriate that Anthony & Coach McNally share their experiences & thoughts on building trust as player and coach. They each provide their opinions on how the game has changed and impacted the way players and coaches interact.Intro music "Next Level" used under license by Composer Rujay Torres.

Our Season 1 regular lineup will close on a high note with Episode 23, featuring Coach Mark Evans.  I couldn't be prouder to present a guest who has brought so much to the game and the lives of those he touches.Coach Evans is currently serving as the Head Football Coach and a School Counselor for Manheim Township HS in Pennsylvania. In 2019, Mark coached the Blue Streaks to their fourth undefeated regular season in school history! Over the past three season, Coach Evans has led the team to an impressive 33-5 record enroute to three consecutive Section 1 Championships and one District 3 Championship.Amazingly, Mark didn't begin his football journey until his Senior year at Cedar Crest HS in Lebanon, PA! Upon graduation, Mark attended Scottsdale Community College in Arizona, where he honed his skills and gained valuable playing time, earning All-Conference honors as a Sophomore. Although he was offered several major Div 1 scholarships, he chose to attend the University of Miami and play for Jimmy Johnson and Dennis Erickson. While Mark was earning a BA in History/Education, he was blessed to play on both the 1987 & 1989 National Championship teams at Miami.Mark began his coaching career as a GA at Shippensburg University, while earning a Masters in Education/Secondary School Counseling. He was eventually hired by his HS Alma Mater as a school counselor, while he simultaneously coached offensive line at Lebanon Valley College. After four years at Lebanon Valley, Mark was offered the opportunity and accepted the Head Coach job at Eastern Lebanon County HS (ELCO) and was the Head Football Coach and a school counselor there for 14 years. Mark's perineal success at ELCO landed him the job at Manheim Township, where he has continued to successfully build tradition!Throughout his career, Coach Evans has held a variety of positions that also serve the great game of football. He is a past President of the Pennsylvania Scholastic Football Coaches Association and has been either Head or Assistant coach on numerous All-Star Teams and Bowl Games. As if that's not enough, Mark is also a devoted husband and father of three, all of whom he has coached!Intro music "Next Level" used under license by Composer Rujay Torres.

Episode 22 features my interview with Liffort Hobley, former LSU Tiger and Miami Dolphin. Liffort is the current President of the Dallas Chapter of the NFL Alumni Association and as such, stays very active in the Dallas/Fort Worth communities.A Louisiana native, Liffort played Quarterback at C.E. Byrd HS. It wasn't until later in his career that he transitioned to Defense and eventually Safety. Although he had multiple D-I offers coming out of Byrd, he was "partial to the purple and gold" and felt comfortable staying home and playing for the LSU Tigers!He was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the third round of the 1985 NFL Draft, ending up initially with the St. Louis Cardinals. After being released, Liffort followed the advice of his college coach and signed with the Dolphins. Despite not making the team and spending a year out of the NFL, Liffort seized an opportunity to return and play for the Dolphins. He made the team and began a successful seven year career playing Safety.Today, in addition to working full-time, Liffort is active in recruiting, organizing and participating in many activities with the NFL Alumni Association. They are a "Caring For Kids" chapter that also focuses on "taking care of their own," by assisting former players with current issues, including health care.Intro music "Next Level" used under license by Composer Rujay Torres.

Episode 20 features my interview with a true "Texas gem," Coach Robert Ford. Coach Ford's unassuming, quiet demeanor gives way to boundless energy when his passion for the game is unleashed on the field. His energetic, demonstrative coaching style is not only fun to watch, but very motivating to any athlete having the privilege to learn from his experience.Coach Ford grew up and played high school football in Belton, Texas...spending his HS career as a running back. Passing on opportunities to play at several more "high profile" colleges, Robert stayed in-state and played college football at the University of Houston. In college, he became a wide receiver, which enabled the Cougars to capitalize on his world-class speed! During his time at UofH, he became the first player in NCAA history to have two 99-yard touchdown receptions in a career...a record that still stands today!Although his coaching career began at the high school level in Saginaw, Michigan, Coach Ford's reputation propelled him to gain extensive college coaching experience. All this experience culminated in being hired by Jimmy Johnson as the tight ends coach for the Dallas Cowboys in 1991. Robert spent seven seasons with the Cowboys and was instrumental in the development of All-Pro Jay Novacek, as well as contributing to the Cowboys' three Super Bowl wins! He remained in the NFL for eight more seasons, coaching with the Miami Dolphins, Arizona Cardinals and Oakland Raiders...before returning to the college game.During this interview, Coach Ford shares his unique "journey through football," as well as opinions and techniques on player development. His unparalleled experience and sage advice contribute to an enjoyable, entertaining career in review! Considering his career, both as a player and coach...leaves no doubt as to why Robert Ford is honored to be an inductee in both the University of Houston's Athletic Hall of Honor and the Central Texas Sports Hall of Fame!Intro music "Next Level" used under license by Composer Rujay Torres.

Episode 19 features my interview with Quintin Smith, former Kansas Jayhawk and Chicago Bears wide receiver. Quintin's depth of experience provides a unique perspective of the game. After earning All Big Eight honors at Kansas in 1989, he signed as a free agent with the Bears and spent two season there. Quintin then spent six years as an NFL Scout, five with Kansas City and one with Minnesota. His scouting experience led to an opportunity as the Director of Player Personnel for the (first edition) XFL's Chicago Enforcers.Since 2001, Quintin has been coaching, making multiple stops at the High School and College levels, including his Alma Mater - Yates HS in Houston. He had the privilege of playing for Yates as a Senior in 1985 when they became the first UIL Class 5 team to go 16-0, as well as the first UIL State Champion from the Houston ISD. The 1985 Yates HS team is considered one of the greatest teams in Texas HS football history!Quintin is a self-proclained "old school" football coach, who subscribes to the philosophy of earning your way through hard work and perseverance. He believes true football talent will be visible, no matter where you play...hence the statement, "If you can play, they'll find you!" Quintin's advice to young athletes today is to set goals and choose your friends wisely. Hang out with "like-minded" people who will encourage and support your growth, rather than drag you backwards.Intro music "Next Level" used under license by Composer Rujay Torres.