Insights from Navy’s Eric Lewis
When the offseason hits, smart coaches don’t just update résumés—they reflect. United States Naval Academy Assistant Coach Eric Lewis says evaluating your next move isn’t about chasing the next big job. It’s about asking the right questions in order to make the best coaching career decision.
“There is no perfect job,” Lewis says, “but the best coaches know when the job is no longer the right fit or when it has room to help them grow.”
Lewis offers five powerful questions to help you decide whether to stay or go if you’re at a career crossroads.
1. Am I Still Growing?
Growth fuels passion. When it slows, so does performance. Lewis encourages coaches to check their internal drive.
“You have to be honest with yourself. Is this a role that you can continue to do and give your whole heart, your whole self, all your energy into daily?”
If your answer isn’t a firm yes, it may be time to reevaluate your path.
2. Is This a Healthy Environment for Me and My Family?
Coaching careers often demand relocation, long hours, and sacrifice. But those pressures don’t exist in a vacuum.
“Is this an environment healthy for me and my family?”
Lewis, now in the Navy, speaks from experience. He praises his current position for its work-life balance and leadership, noting how vital a supportive system can be—especially for coaches with families.
3. Do I Still Believe in the Direction of the Program?
Culture and leadership make or break a coaching environment. If you no longer trust the direction, leading authentically is hard.
“You have to believe in your leadership because part of being a good assistant coach is being a good soldier.”
If you’re struggling to align with your head coach, coordinators, or administration, it’s time for a hard conversation—or a clean break.
4. Am I Getting the Recognition and Opportunities I’ve Earned?
While humility is key in coaching, so is advancement.
“The best way to get your recognition is to do a great job of where you’re at… We always say the film is your resume.”
Lewis reminds coaches to stay locked in and be honest about whether their growth is being supported.
5. Would I Regret Leaving or Staying?
This final question is often the clearest guide.
“If I had that job already, would I leave and take my current job? If the answer is no, it’s probably a good decision to go.”
Lewis acknowledges the risk but also stresses the reward. Coaches should act boldly, trust their instincts, and never let fear hold them back.
“Don’t be afraid to be fired… Believe in yourself and just take advantage of the opportunities when they present themselves.”
Make Your Next Move with Confidence
If these questions sparked reflection, you’re not alone. Every coach hits this point. What matters most is how you respond.
When it comes to making your coaching career decisions, take the next step in your coaching journey at Coach-Portal.com—a platform built for coaches to explore new opportunities, connect with programs, and confidently manage their careers.
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About Coach Eric Lewis
Eric Lewis serves as the Defensive Passing Game Coordinator and Safeties Coach at the United States Naval Academy. In his first year with the Midshipmen, Lewis’s defense tied for the most shutouts in the nation and ranked prominently in several defensive categories, including second in fumble recoveries and third in red zone defense. Prior to joining Navy, Lewis held coaching positions at Bowling Green, Boston College, and Colorado State, among others. He played collegiate football at San Diego State, where he was a four-year starter and set the school’s career record for pass breakups. For a comprehensive overview of his coaching career and achievements, visit his official Navy Athletics bio.
