“Pinyan” continued from page 1 7 NCC: WHO HAD THE TOUGHEST TEAMS YOU COACHED AGAINST? “ Thomasville, coached by Allen Brown beyond a doubt. Always well coached and prepared. There was no doubt that those games were physical, and every possession was priceless. Because of that, those were some epic football games. ” NCC: WHAT CHANGES WOULD YOU MAKE TO THE CURRENT RULES IN YOUR SPORT? “ The game of football is played at such a high rate of speed and with violent collisions. Steps have been taken to protect the athletes and coaches are provided the opportunity to educate themselves to provide a safe environment. Safety is a priority as it should be. The puzzling part to me is that the “tush push” is allowed and/or whistles are blown late when a runner is stood up but getting pushed by others. The opportunity for injury seems to be at such a risk in those situations. ”
NCC: WHAT ONE PIECE OF ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A BEGINNING COACH? “ ‘Coach’ is more than a title---so much more. Because of that, you are going have go “all in” to understand what this profession is all about. Too many coaches focus on coaching one sport when they can be extremely valuable helping with other sports. The reward for working other sports is that you meet other athletes who can help your sport be successful and you learn more about the athletes that play for you. Also, the administration (Principal, AD, etc.) really enjoy filling those coaching spots. I can’t tell you how many years that I coached three sports each school year. I really believe you appreciate and understand athletes when they perform outside of your sport. The athletes see a different side of you. These added opportunities also develop relationships between coaches to sometimes share athletes. The final piece of this little puzzle is that being more invested in the profession makes you realize that the time you have invested is impactful on you and the athletes. That leads to the desire to stay with the profession instead of getting out after a few years. ” See “Pinyan” on page 20
NC Coach • Spring 2026 • Page 19 • nccoach.org
Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker