Coach and Coordinator Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Make the Most of the Playoff Experience – Cris Reisert (Tiffin), Kirk Fridrich (Union HS), Ty Gower (Plano West HS) Oct 31, 2023

Show notes

As coaches, we all know leading a team through the playoffs can be an exhilarating, yet demanding, experience. The pressure to perform, the increased responsibilities, and the distractions outside the game can easily derail our focus. However, by implementing effective strategies, we can ensure we stay on track and give our teams the best chance to succeed.

In this episode, three coaches share what they learned from their experiences to stay focused and maximize playoff success. Learn about delegating non-game-related responsibilities, maintaining a consistent schedule, and leaving it all on the field. Remember, the playoffs are a rare opportunity, and it is essential to enjoy the journey and savor the moments of triumph. So as you lead your team through the playoffs, stay focused, stay prepared, and most importantly, enjoy the ride.

Coaches Featured in This Episode:

Cris Reisert, Head Coach, Tiffin University
Kirk Fridrich, Head Coach, Union High School (OK)
Ty Gower, Defensive Coordinator, Plano West High School (TX)

Show Notes:

Delegate Outside Responsibilities to Stay Focused on the Game
Have Someone Manage Non-Game-Related Tasks
Leave Nothing on the Field and Call Trick Plays
Peak at the Right Time and Build Confidence
Slow Down and Enjoy the Moment
Embrace the Journey of a Successful Season

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Planning, Practicing, and Calling Trick Plays Oct 30, 2023

Show notes

In this episode from our archives, Coach Keith Grabowski gives us a page out his notebook on trick plays. Trick plays can be fun and valuable tools for a team. They give room for creativity on offense and confusion for opposing defenses.

Listen to insight on some of the most popular trick plays and some new ones. This episode supplies coaches with a multitude of ideas that can be implemented as the end of the season approaches.

Show Notes:

Trick Play Article
Oberlin Trick Play
History of Philly Special
Kevin Kelly’s Approach
Skill Components
Multiple Player Exchange
Exchange to Pass
Jump Pass
Double Pass
Catch and Pitch
Throwbacks
Specials
Categories of Plays
Favorite Throwback
Don’t Forget the Linemen
St. Johnsbury Academy (VT) Tackle Screen
Tricks by Procedure
How To Practice Trick Plays
Circus Circuit
Hook & Ladder
Heidelberg’s Hook & Ladder
How To Plan Trick Plays
Know Your Opponent
When and Where to Call Trick Plays
Set Up a Play That Fits the Game Plan

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How Exit Interviews Shape Team Dynamics and Development – Jonathan Himebauch (Arlington Renegades), Loren Johnson (Highland Springs HS), Siddiq Haynes (UTSA) Oct 26, 2023

Show notes

Exit interviews provide a valuable opportunity for coaches to gather feedback from players at the conclusion of a season. This feedback can have a profound impact on coaching methods and strategies, ultimately contributing to team development and success. This commitment to open communication and continuous improvement lays the foundation for successful future seasons and ultimately contributes to long-term growth and achievements of both the team and its players.

In this episode, three coaches explore the importance of exit interviews, how they influence coaching approaches, and the benefits they bring to team dynamics and individual player development.

Coaches Featured in This Episode:

Jonathan Himebauch, Offensive Line Coach, Arlington Renegades
Loren Johnson, Highland Springs High School (VA)
Siddiq Haynes, Defensive Line Coach, UTSA

Show Notes:

Give Players Time to Process Their Emotions
Include Feedback on Scheduling, Installation, and Daily Routine
Goal Sheets and Personality Tests to Understand Players' Development and Maturation
Open Communication and Honesty
Provide Specific Feedback to Players on Performance, Strengths, and Areas for Improvement
Encourage Players to Provide Feedback on How You Can Be a Better Coach

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The Focus to Rise Above the Pressure in the Postseason – Levi Nelson (PCA), Chris Kappas (Louisville HS), Jeremy Hawkins (EKU), Randy Jackson (Texas HS) Oct 25, 2023

Show notes

Maintaining focus during postseason weeks is essential for coaches and players to perform their best and make the most of their achievements. As coaches, we understand the immense pressure that comes with postseason games. It is crucial to not only instruct players to remain focused but also equip them with practical tools to do so.

In this episode, we explore effective strategies for keeping athletes focused during postseason weeks. These techniques include implementing mistake rituals, maintaining a consistent approach, and minimizing distractions. Additionally, we discuss the significance of routine in enhancing performance, the importance of over-communication with parents during critical moments, and the detrimental effects of creating unnecessary pressure.

Coaches Featured in This Episode:

Levi Nelson, Positive Coach Alliance
Chris Kappas, Head Coach, Louisville High School (OH)
Jeremy Hawkins, Run Game Coordinator and DL Coach, Eastern Kentucky
Randy Jackson, Texas High School Coach

Show Notes:

The Importance of Teaching Focus
Moving on from Mistakes
Treat Every Game the Same
Maintain the Same Preparation and Mindset Throughout the Year
Balancing Focus on the Game While Also Savoring the Moment
Have Older Players Share Their Experiences
Practical Advice to Clear Your Plate as a Coach
Focus on Winning Each Day

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3 Tips for Effective Game Planning in the Postseason – Todd Drury (Western Illinois), Josh Herring (Lassiter HS), Deonte Gibson (Youngstown State) Oct 23, 2023

Show notes

As we turn our focus to the postseason, we start with one of its most critical aspects – game planning. Game planning in the postseason requires a meticulous and well-rounded approach. By staying focused on main objectives, being prepared for adjustments, and utilizing clues for what the opponent is about to do, coaches develop effective strategies to counter opponents' strengths. The ability to adapt quickly and provide players with information ensures a team is well-prepared to face any challenges that arise during playoff games.

In this episode, three coaches share strategies for effective game planning in the postseason. They address what an opponent does best, planning for contingencies, and finding clues to help your position players.

Coaches Featured in This Episode:

Todd Drury, Defensive Coordinator, Western Illinois
Josh Herring, QB Coach, Lassiter High School (GA)
Deonte Gibson, Defensive Line Coach, Youngstown State

Show Notes:

Stay Focused on the Main Thing
Don't Chase Unnecessary Rabbit Trails
Defend Against the Opponent's Strengths
Stick to Established Practice Routines
Prepare to Adapt When the Opponents Make Adjustments
Utilize Analytics to Identify Tendencies and Weaknesses
Watch Player Alignments and Movements
Tailor Game Plans to Your Players' Learning Preferences

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Insight on Film Break Down in the Late Season – Rob Everett, Senior Offensive Analyst, Wisconsin Oct 20, 2023

Show notes

From our archives, we revisit a conversation with Rob Everett, currently an analyst at Wisconsin, formerly the TE coach of the AAF’s Memphis Express and the defensive coordinator at Bridgewater College.

In this episode, Coach Everett shares his philosophies and ideas for giving your team a late-season advantage. He specifically discusses different strategies for dissecting opponent film that can give your team the edge going into the playoffs.

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Keys to Late-Season Focus – Dan Carrel (Coastal Carolina), Jordan Hogan (SF 49ers), Jonathan Himebauch (XFL Arlington Renegades), Tyler Roehl (North Dakota St) Oct 18, 2023

Show notes

As we hit the late season, we face the challenge of keeping our players motivated and focused. Whether it's competing for a championship or struggling to salvage a disappointing season, maintaining a positive atmosphere is crucial for success. In this episode, we explore strategies utilized by four coaches to keep players motivated during the late season.

Coaches Featured in This Episode:

Dan Carrel, Co-Defensive Coordinator and LB Coach, Coastal Carolina
Jordan Hogan, Offensive Assistant, San Francisco 49ers
Jonathan Himebacuh, Offensive Line Coach, Arlington Renegades
Tyler Roehl, Offensive Coordinator, North Dakota State

Show Notes:

Emphasize Team Culture and Why Players Love the Game
Maintain Motivation Through Strong Partnerships Between Coaches and Players
Always Be Positive
Start Meetings with Music and Casual Conversation
Focus on Daily Wins
Acknowledge Player Efforts
Spend Time Together Outside the Practice Facility
Be the Same Person Every Day
Have a Growth Mindset, Discipline, Accountability
Be Supportive Rather Than Negative

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Stay Sharp Physically and Mentally in the Late Season – Morgan Scalley (Utah), Chris Softley (Lubbock Christian), Mike Elder (Avon HS) Oct 17, 2023

Show notes

As the season progresses into the late stages, teams face unique challenges in maintaining their performance levels and motivation. And coaches play pivotal roles in ensuring players remain sharp and focused on achieving their goals. In this episode, three coaches delve into their strategies for navigating the late season successfully and keeping teams performing at their best.

Coaches Featured in This Episode:

Morgan Scalley, Defensive Coordinator, University of Utah
Chris Softley, Head Coach, Lubbock Christian School (TX)
Mike Elder, Head Coach, Avon High School (OH)

Show Notes:

Prevent Complacency and Distractions
Remind Players That Every Game Is a One-Week Season
Instill Belief That Each Game Carries Equal Weight
Reflect on Past Experiences
Understand the Type of Team You Have
Equip Players with Tools for Success
Use Psychology and Positive Reinforcement
Keep the Team Physically Sharp
Develop Depth

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Personnel, Workload, and Positive Morale on Special Teams – Charlie Coiner (NFL), Bobby April (NFL), Brett Arkelian (Fresno State) Oct 11, 2023

Show notes

In the late season, special teams face different challenges than in the earlier parts of the year. These considerations include personnel management, practice workload, and maintaining positive morale within the team. By carefully addressing these aspects, coaches optimize special teams performance and increase the chances of success in the late-season games.

In this episode, three special teams coaches share important considerations for managing these units during the last weeks of the regular season and into the playoffs.

Coaches Featured in This Episode:

Charlie Coiner, Retired NFL Coach
Bobby April, Two-Time NFL Special Teams Coach of the Year
Brett Arkelian, Special Teams Coach, Fresno State University

Show Notes:

Charlie Coiner

Late-Season Special Teams Considerations
Building Depth and Managing Personnel
Incorporating Fakes and Practice Strategies

Bobby April

Adjusting Practice Techniques for the Late Season
Weather Conditions and Game Planning
Balancing Player Workload and Starters on Special Teams

Brett Arkelian

Maintaining Positive Morale and Atmosphere
Emphasizing Communication and Team Bonding
Recognizing Effort and Boosting Morale
Highlighting the Bigger Picture and Creating a Unified Team

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Keep Your Defense in Battle Rhythm – Todd Drury (Western Illinois), John Mumford (NFL), Vince DiGaetano (Fordham) Oct 10, 2023

Show notes

As the season progresses, coaches and coordinators must ensure their defensive units remain sharp and perform at their best. The late season brings unique challenges, such as maintaining fresh and game-ready players, managing injuries, and countering opponents who are familiar with our team’s tendencies.

In this episode, we explore three key strategies to navigate the late season successfully and keep defenses in battle rhythm.

Coaches Featured in This Episode: