Head Coach

Constant Evaluation for Continuous Improvement

The Hardin-Simmons Cowboys, under the leadership of head coach Jesse Burleson, thrives on a foundational principle of constant evaluation. This approach goes beyond typical game-week adjustments; it is a daily practice that drives the program’s success. Burleson emphasizes that while constant evaluation is a broad concept, it must be focused to ensure the team is…

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Balancing Head Coaching and Coordinating Roles

In most of the coaching profession, especially at the high school and small college levels, coaches often wear multiple hats. For many, the combination of head coach and coordinator can feel like juggling two full-time jobs. The task is challenging, but many coaches, like Bethel University’s Mike McElroy, work to master it. In his first…

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A Holistic Approach to Technical, Tactical, and Psychological Preparation

In the past, success in football was primarily about physical conditioning, memorizing plays, and putting those together on game day. Now it’s about how well coaches can prepare their teams on three essential fronts. Technical execution, tactical mastery, and psychological resilience are three key areas that Justin Hemm, head coach at Skyridge High School in…

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Quarterback-Centric, Tempo Based Offense

Matt Walker, head coach at University of River Falls, was recently recognized as the Coach and Coordinator Head Coach of the Week presented by Hansen Ratings for his leadership and staff. Under his guidance the team puts the quarterback at the middle of everything. On top of that, they are tempo based in practice which…

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National Coach of the Week – John Peacock, Head Coach, Venice HS (FL)

Our National Coach of the Week, presented by Modern Football Technology, is John Peacock, Head Coach at Venice High School in Florida. On September 20th, the Indians defeated Cocoa High School 54-51. Max Preps ranked Cocoa 15th in the country, but the win propelled Venice to #19. Coach Peacock enters his 26th year in the…

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Building the Brotherhood

At Springfield College, football goes beyond the field; it’s a foundation for building a lifelong brotherhood. Head Coach Mike Cerasuolo builds a culture rooted in personal relationships, accountability, and purpose. His philosophy ties success on the field to the bonds formed off it, shaping Springfield’s team culture into one of the strongest in Division III…

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D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week – Ryan Fleetwood – Salisbury, Ryan McElwain – DePauw, Mike Cerasuolo, Springfield

Keith Grabowski and Logan Hanson review standout performances and coaching achievements from the second week of the Division III football season. They feature Salisbury University’s Ryan Fleetwood for his high-scoring offense in a 59-38 win over Muhlenberg, DePauw College’s Ryan McElwain for a 33-0 shutout against Berry College, and Springfield College’s Mike Cerasuolo, who emphasizes…

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National Coach of the Week – Craig Stump, Atasocita High School (TX)

Our National Coach of the Week presented by Modern Football Technology is Atascocita Head Coach Craig Stump. Atascocita had a nig win over #4 ranked Westlake High School (ranked #29 in the nation).  That’s following two big wins over Lamar and Katy to start the season. Coach Stump discusses his team’s growth since 2015, consistently…

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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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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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