Building Community: A Cornerstone of High School Football Success
In the realm of high school football, victories on the field are undoubtedly significant. However, there exists a vital, often overlooked aspect of success that extends far beyond the game itself: community building. Coach Mike Coe, a championship coach in two states with a penchant for nurturing strong relationships, recently shared his invaluable insights on The Board Drill Podcast. Let's delve into how Coach Coe's strategies for cultivating a tight-knit community contribute to the success of his football program.
Establishing Connections within the School
Coach Coe's coaching philosophy begins with establishing robust connections within the school environment. He recognizes that success isn't solely measured by wins and losses but also by the quality of relationships forged within the educational institution. From teachers and counselors to cafeteria staff, Coach Coe ensures that everyone associated with the school feels valued and respected. By fostering an inclusive culture that celebrates the contributions of all members, Coach Coe sets the foundation for a supportive football program.
I'll send out an email around lunchtime and I'll ask the teachers, is there any young man in your class that deserves a helmet sticker? And you can determine why and let us know why you're giving it to him. Then at pregame meal on Fridays, I print them and I give them to their position coach and they read them out verbatim what the teacher said, and then we hand them a helmet sticker. -Coach Coe
Just be a normal dude, right? Be one of the faculty. When you can go to faculty meetings, go interact with them. Don't walk around like you're Mr. Big Shot and all this and that, man, because you already got that kind of, that label as it is, you know what I mean? So just be a normal dude, man, and interact with them and pop in in the classrooms and visit your kids and things like that. You'll be amazed at how much it helps you and how much.
Engaging with Parents
Effective communication with parents is paramount to Coach Coe's approach. He understands the importance of keeping parents informed about their child's progress, both on and off the field. Whether sharing positive updates or addressing areas for improvement, Coach Coe maintains open lines of communication to build trust and encourage parental involvement. By actively engaging with parents, Coach Coe creates a collaborative partnership that enhances the overall experience for student-athletes.
Alright, parents, I think that's the key to it all. And I think we do a good job of this. You you got to communicate regularly with them, the good, the bad, the ugly, right? Have your parent nights, but it's got to be more than that.
Involvement in the Local Community
Beyond the confines of the school, Coach Coe actively engages with the local community. He attends civic events, speaks at churches, and visits businesses to promote the football program and its values. By immersing himself in the community, Coach Coe fosters connections that extend beyond game day. These interactions not only garner support for the team but also instill a sense of pride and unity within the community. Coach Coe's commitment to community involvement underscores the broader impact of high school football beyond the gridiron.
Promote the program, the kids, & your brand and model it after your community, right? So ours is gritty, tough, hardworking. So our program follows suit and the community loves it. They feel a part of it.
Emphasizing Accountability and Transparency
Coach Coe believes in the principles of accountability and transparency as pillars of his coaching philosophy. He holds everyone within the football program, including players, coaches, and himself, to high standards of conduct and performance. By promoting accountability, Coach Coe creates a culture of responsibility where individuals take ownership of their actions. Additionally, he ensures transparency in decision-making processes, fostering trust and cohesion within the team. Through accountability and transparency, Coach Coe instills values that extend far beyond the football field and into the lives of his players.
Conclusion
Coach Mike Coe's dedication to community building serves as a blueprint for success in high school football. By prioritizing relationships within the school and local community, Coach Coe creates a supportive environment where student-athletes can thrive both on and off the field. His emphasis on communication, engagement, and integrity underscores the transformative power of high school football in shaping the lives of young individuals. As Coach Coe exemplifies, building a strong community is not just a means to victory but a fundamental aspect of creating meaningful and lasting impacts in the lives of student-athletes.
Action Items
Building a culture like Coach Coe's involves deliberate actions aimed at fostering connections, promoting accountability, and engaging with the community. Here are some actionable steps to help build a similar culture within your football program or any other community-oriented environment:
Establish Personal Connections: Take the time to get to know everyone involved in your program, from players and coaches to teachers and support staff. Show genuine interest in their lives and experiences, and make them feel valued and respected.
Communicate Openly and Frequently: Prioritize transparent communication with all stakeholders, including parents, players, and school administrators. Keep them informed about team activities, expectations, and any developments that may impact them.
Promote Accountability: Set clear expectations for behavior and performance, and hold everyone accountable for upholding these standards. Encourage players to take ownership of their actions and responsibilities both on and off the field.
Lead by Example: Demonstrate the values and behaviors you wish to instill in others. Model integrity, dedication, and respect in your interactions with others, and hold yourself to the same standards you expect from your players and staff.
Engage with the Community: Actively participate in community events, outreach programs, and local initiatives. Build relationships with local businesses, churches, and civic organizations to garner support for your program and foster a sense of unity within the community.
Celebrate Achievements: Recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of individuals and the team as a whole. Whether it's academic achievements, athletic successes, or acts of kindness, acknowledge and praise efforts that contribute to the program's goals and values.
Provide Mentorship and Support: Offer guidance and mentorship to players, coaches, and staff members. Create opportunities for personal and professional growth, and provide support to help individuals overcome challenges and reach their full potential.
Encourage Inclusivity and Diversity: Foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and valued regardless of their background, identity, or abilities. Embrace diversity and encourage collaboration and mutual respect among team members and community members alike.
Lead with Empathy: Show empathy and understanding towards others, especially during difficult times or moments of adversity. Take the time to listen to concerns, offer support, and provide encouragement to those who may be struggling.
Reflect and Adapt: Continuously evaluate the culture of your program and identify areas for improvement. Solicit feedback from players, coaches, and stakeholders, and be willing to adapt your approach based on their input and evolving needs.