Marina Vikings Head Coach
My football philosophy can be summed up in one thought:
To mold the athlete's character in a positive manner through the development of a successful program which has "WINNING" as its ultimate goal.
In order to fully explain my philosophy, I must discuss my beliefs on what defines a winning team. Winning does not occur by chance. You control your own destiny and those around you by your attitude and your work ethic.
There are many areas to consider in developing a personal philosophy. No one area can stand alone and all areas have an equal weight. These are, but are not limited to, staff experience and expectations, coordination of offense, defense, special teams, students/players achievement, parent roles, administrative support, and all adjunct areas required to make the football team successful. I have clearly defined high expectations of those individuals.
1. We have an experienced and knowledgeable staff. The team is a reflection of the coaches attitudes. We must develop positive attitudes built upon respect for each other. The staff must demonstrate their knowledge of football and their specific coaching areas. The team will be fundamentally sound due to the coaching on and off of the field. The staff must display loyalty to the school and the program. The staff must be prompt and come to practices and games prepared to do their job to the best of their ability. They must understand their role in the chain of command. The staff must always model the behavior they expect from students and players.
2. My offensive philosophy is to protect the football and win the field position battle. You must be able to run the clock with a strong running game and a short controlled passing game. Turnovers must be limited and players must be ready to capitalize on any mistakes made by our opponents. We will continuously reevaluate our game plan and adapt to the skills of our players and opponents.
3. Our defense strategy will be a swarming attacking defense to cause our opponents to make critical errors and act in confusion. Our attack will be based upon being able to run to the ball, pursue relentlessly, and tackle our opponents. Fundamentals will be the backbone of our defense and will be incorporated in daily practice drills. The defensive strategy must be easily adaptable and our players must be comfortable and knowledgeable with all plays.
4. Special Teams must be given time for the players to master these critical skills. Special teams can turn the momentum of a game in a single play and we must be sound in these areas.
5. Coaches and players must have a sense of respect for each other. Through respect, comes accountability and a commitment to work together for a greater cause. Football is the ultimate team game and without respect a winning team is not achievable. The students must have pride in their school and instill that pride in others to have a winning team attitude. Our school motto is "Victory to the Valiant" and our team, including coaches, will reflect this motto.
6. Parents are a key component to the program and their involvement must be guided and focused. An open door policy and communication with parents is welcomed. Two areas that are not open for debate are playing time and play calling. The parents are to support the students and will treat all players and coaches with respect. Our parents have expertise in many areas and these strengths must be drawn upon in order to run a successful program.
7. Administrators are an important aspect of building a solid program and without their support a winning team is unachievable. They support athletics by hiring experienced and knowledgeable coaches, being visible at games, and setting the tone of the school. Honest two-way communication between the staff and administration is paramount in creating a win-win scenario for students, parents, staff and the community and fosters a strong positive relationship for all.
