Head Coach

Shaped by Coaches – Shaping Players

For Antonio Graham, head coach at Owasso High School, football is more than just a game. It has served as his lifeline, guiding him through some of life’s hardest moments. Growing up in a challenging environment, Graham relied on football for structure and a way forward. It shaped him into the man and coach he…

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How Peter Stuursma Uses Staff Autonomy, Culture Building, and Outside Evaluation to Drive Winning Programs

Peter Stuursma, head coach of Hope College football, has built a successful program. He joined the Coach and Coordinator Podcast and shared three components that are a part of this succes. By developing staff autonomy, a strong team culture, and seeking continuous improvement through outside evaluation, the Dutchmen have experienced success. In seven seasons, Stuursma…

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Getting More Out of Your Scout Teams

Scout teams are often the unsung heroes of a successful football program. They help prepare the first-string players for the real action on game day, simulating the opposition’s tactics and testing your starters. But let’s face it – scout teams are tough to manage. Players on these teams don’t see a lot of playing time,…

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Using Film Grading and Game Goals to Improve and Stay Process-Oriented

Hall of Fame Coach Bill Walsh was known for his process-oriented approach to the game. He once said, “The score takes care of itself if you take care of the process. It’s not about playing for the scoreboard, but about preparing in a way that will lead to success.” It’s a sound approach that allows…

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The Shift from Play Caller to Game Manager

With back-to-back state championships, Kyle Schmitt, the head coach at Archbishop Spalding High School in Maryland, has proven that effective game management is as important as the talent on the field. Like all coaches, he valued his role as a player caller, but a shift in perspective as a head coach, he recognized the need…

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