Coach and Coordinator Podcast

In this week’s Game Planning Tips, Coach Keith Grabowski brings you three coaches who show how clarity and intentional teaching create smarter, faster football in every phase of the game. On defense, John Loose, Associate Head Coach and Safeties Coach at Army West Point, breaks down his Cover 6 Toolbox and explains how moving stress — not adding calls — helps players play fast with clear rules. Learn how he adapts field and boundary coverage, manages 3x1 formations, and builds a structure that fits high school football. On offense, Matt Drinkall, Head Coach at Central Michigan, delivers one of the cleanest explanations of RPO football you’ll hear. His filter — Shorter, Faster, Simpler — keeps quarterbacks efficient and keeps the offense operating within its identity. Drinkall outlines what makes RPOs work, what often goes wrong, and how to package them into any system. On special teams, Pete Lembo, now the Head Coach at the University at Buffalo, shows why elite special teams start with top-down support. He details how head coach involvement, shared terminology, and organized teaching turn special teams from a transition period into a program-wide advantage. Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation funds pediatric brain tumor research and supports families affected by cancer through football. The foundation has raised over $3 million through clinics and events led by coaches nationwide. 👉 Learn more, donate, or register at laurensfirstandgoal.org 🌐 coachandcoordinator.com 📱 Follow @CoachKGrabowski Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Hansen Ratings D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week, presented by Tully, hosts Logan and John bring together three powerful conversations that highlight leadership, strategy, and personal development across Division III football. First, Delaware Valley OC Mike Isgro shares insights into the art of offensive strategy, emphasizing adaptability in play calling, red zone efficiency, and the importance of decision-making in creating consistent scoring opportunities. Next, Bethel HC/DC Mike McElroy dives into a coaching philosophy centered on cultivating potential in young athletes. He discusses how the right environment or “soil” - helps players and individuals grow stronger, more resilient, and better prepared to succeed both on and off the field. Finally, Hope College HC Peter Stuursma explores the human side of coaching through weekly player wellness surveys and open communication. He reflects on the responsibility coaches have to support athletes beyond the game - helping them navigate challenges and build habits that serve them throughout life. This episode captures what makes Division III football special: growth-minded coaches, programs rooted in care and accountability, and a shared commitment to developing great players and even better people. Chapters Introduction with Logan and John Mike Isgro on Offensive Strategy and Adaptability Scoring, Red Zone Focus, and Play Calling Philosophy Mike McElroy on Cultivating Growth in Young Players The Importance of Environment and Nourishment in Development Peter Stuursma on Player Well-Being and Leadership Beyond the Game Building Brotherhood and Accountability in Football Closing Reflections on Growth, Grit, and Coaching Purpose Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski John Snell: @jsnellbwfb Logan Hansen: @LogHanRatings Mike Isgro: @Coach_Isgro Mike McElroy: @McElroy26 Peter Stuursma: @PStuursm Tully: @TullyTracking Presented by Tully — the perfect tool for high school and Division III programs. Tully helps coaches track readiness, performance, and player development so teams can stay strong and confident deep into the season. Learn more at tully.app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of National Coach of the Week, presented by Modern Football Technology, we dive into a powerful conversation with Santavious Bryant, Head Coach at Grayson HS (GA), who breaks down how relationships form the foundation of team success. Coach Bryant emphasizes that genuine care between players and staff strengthens communication, opens the door to constructive criticism, and fuels personal growth on and off the field. He shares how intentional relationship-building - player to player, staff to staff, and across the entire program - creates an environment where athletes feel supported, accountable, and empowered to receive coaching. This episode highlights why connection, trust, and authentic communication remain at the heart of strong football cultures and sustained team development. Chapters Introduction to Grayson Rams’ Success Developing Players Through Relationships and Leadership How Connection Improves Communication and Coaching The Role of Care, Trust, and Constructive Criticism Growing Athletes On and Off the Field Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Santavious Bryant: @CoachSB_4theG Modern Football Technology: @modernFB Ready to gain an edge on game night? Modern Football Technology helps coaches make smarter real-time decisions with in-game analytics. It’s simple to get started, and you can be up and running by Friday night. Book a demo today and see the difference this week: https://www.modernfootball.com/demo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s Game Planning Tips presented by Lauren's First and Goal Foundation, Coach Keith Grabowski brings you insights from three coaches who define what championship preparation looks like across every phase of the game. On offense, Joe Moorhead, Head Coach at Akron, breaks down his red zone framework and RPO structure that create simplicity for the quarterback and conflict for the defense. Learn how he divides the field into planning zones and builds an aggressive yet efficient scoring approach. On defense, Mike Elko, Head Coach at Texas A&M, shares how great defenses are built on habits, not calls. His five non-negotiables — relentless effort, pursuit, tackling, ball disruption, and explosive-play prevention — define the culture that drives consistency. On special teams, Sean Saturnio, Special Teams Coordinator at Army West Point, details his ABCs of Punt Blocking: Attack, Block or Bust, and Capture the Field. His system focuses on pressure, discipline, and hidden yardage — treating punt block as the first offensive play. Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation supports pediatric brain tumor research and families affected by cancer through football. Since its founding, LFG has raised more than $2 million through clinics and events led by coaches nationwide. Learn more, donate, or register for this year’s clinic series at laurensfirstandgoal.org coachandcoordinator.com Follow @CoachKGrabowski Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Hansen Ratings D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week, presented by Tully, hosts Logan and John spotlight four outstanding Division III coaches who share how preparation, mindset, and strategy drive consistent performance on and off the field. First, Carnegie Mellon HC Ryan Larsen and OC Andy Helms discuss how practice efficiency, game simulation, and structured communication elevate their program’s offensive execution. They also detail how balancing academics with athletics keeps players focused and disciplined throughout the season. Next, Susquehanna DC Tim Kologrivov breaks down his philosophy of setting high expectations for players every day. He explains how treating each play as its own opportunity builds resilience and accountability — and how strategic thinking can elevate performance beyond physical ability. Finally, UW River Falls HC Matt Walker offers insights into game-day decision-making, exploring the connection between team dynamics, player psychology, and sports science. He reflects on how confidence and versatility influence strategy, and how success often depends on clear communication and trust within the team. Chapters Trends in D3 Football Carnegie Mellon’s Offensive Strategy and Practice Efficiency Balancing Academics and Athletic Preparation Tim Kologrivov on Defensive Mindset and Daily Expectations Developing Strategic Thinking Beyond Physical Talent Matt Walker on Game-Day Strategy and Team Dynamics Sports Science and Player Confidence in Decision Making Adapting Coaching Philosophy for Sustained Success Closing Reflections on Collaboration and Preparation Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski John Snell: @jsnellbwfb Logan Hansen: @LogHanRatings Ryan Larsen: @CoachRyanLarsen Andy Helms: @CoachAndyHelms Tim Kologrivov: @CoachKolo Matt Walker: @CoachWalkerRF Tully: @TullyTracking Presented by Tully — the perfect tool for high school and Division III programs. Tully helps coaches track readiness, performance, and player development so teams can stay strong and confident deep into the season. Learn more at tully.app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of National Coach of the Week, presented by Modern Football, Keith Grabowski sits down with Chris Greisen, head coach at West De Pere High School, to discuss how he’s built a football program defined by culture, accountability, and innovation. Coach Greisen shares how his team lives by the acronym GRIT — Grind, Responsibility, Intensity, and Trust — and how that mindset drives both player development and strong team chemistry. He also breaks down his approach to simplifying complex offensive concepts, teaching players to “flip the switch” with urgency, and promoting a staff culture built on shared ownership and leadership. Chapters Introduction and Coach Recognition Building a Unified Coaching Staff Defining GRIT: The Four Pillars of Culture Simplifying Offense for Player Success Innovative Play Calling and Team Execution Developing Leadership and Accountability Closing Reflections on Growth and Future Goals Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Chris Greisen: @CGQBAcademy Modern Football Technology: @modernFB Ready to gain an edge on game night? Modern Football Technology helps coaches make smarter real-time decisions with in-game analytics. It’s simple to get started, and you can be up and running by Friday night. Book a demo today and see the difference this week: https://www.modernfootball.com/demo Tune into Kegan Wirtz's Modern Football story mentioned in the podcast here: Kegan Wirtz Story Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of National Coach of the Week, presented by Modern Football, Keith Grabowski talks with Travis Dixon, Head Coach of Hamilton HS (AZ), about the essential role defense plays in his team’s success. Dixon highlights the preparation, strategy, and adaptability led by Coach Barrett, whose defensive unit challenges the offense daily—sharpening the team’s overall performance come game night. He explains how facing an elite defense in practice provides unique looks and situations that push the offense to grow, promoting a competitive culture built on preparation and teamwork. The conversation highlights how communication and collaboration between the coaching staff translates into consistent success on Fridays. Chapters Introduction to the Week’s Feature Travis Dixon on Defense and Team Growth Coach Barrett’s Preparation and Strategic Approach How Practice Challenges Translate to Game Success Complementary Football and Coach Collaboration Final Thoughts on Team Identity and Consistent Success Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Travis Dixon: @CoachDixonDBs Parker Barrett: @CoachPTBarrett Justin Garman: @coachgarman11 Modern Football Technology: @modernFB Ready to gain an edge on game night? Modern Football Technology helps coaches make smarter real-time decisions with in-game analytics. It’s simple to get started, and you can be up and running by Friday night. Book a demo today and see the difference this week: https://www.modernfootball.com/demo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Art of Practice, presented by GoRout, Coach Keith Grabowski sits down with Phil Kleckler, HC at Lindsey Wilson University, to explore how his program balances efficiency, competition, and development to drive sustained success. Coach Kleckler explains how technology like GoRout streamlines communication and enhances practice structure, allowing players to get more quality reps in less time. He also highlights how his staff builds competition across all positions, develops roster depth, and adjusts practice plans to maintain performance throughout the season. This conversation delivers actionable strategies for coaches at every level who want to make practices more intentional and impactful — from integrating modern tools to mastering the fundamentals of player development. Chapters: Introduction to Lindsay Wilson Football and Coaching Philosophy Creating a Competitive Practice Environment Maximizing Efficiency Through Quality Reps Integrating GoRout into Daily Practice Structure Building Depth and Confidence Across the Roster Adjusting Practice Plans Late in the Season Film Review and Continuous Improvement Advice for Young Coaches on Practice Design Developing Energy, Consistency, and Player Buy-In Closing Reflections on Team Development Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Phil Kleckler: @CoachKleckler GoRout: @Go_Rout Learn More About Our Partner - GoRout GoRout helps coaches eliminate huddles, increase reps, and maximize efficiency with their game-changing technology. Sign up using code “coordinator” for up to 50% off setup fees at gorout.com/podcast/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Presented by Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation In this week’s Game Planning Tips, Coach Keith Grabowski brings together three coaches who define what preparation looks like across every phase of the game. On offense, Mark Carney, Head Coach at Kent State University, shares how to use shifts and motions with intent — to control defensive structure, create leverage, and give the quarterback clarity before the snap. On defense, Adam Fuller, Safeties Coach for the LA Chargers, explains his third-down system built on mindset and organization. He teaches players to categorize situations, anticipate concepts, and communicate through shared language so everyone on the field sees the same picture. And on special teams, Jake Schoonover, Special Teams Coordinator at Ole Miss, breaks down how to coach kickoff coverage through time and space. He teaches players to play fast, stay connected, and finish with precision using his three-zone system — speed, combat, and finish. Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation supports pediatric brain tumor research and families affected by cancer through football. Since its founding, the organization has raised over $2 million through clinics and community events led by coaches nationwide. Learn more, donate, or register for this year’s clinic series at laurensfirstandgoal.org coachandcoordinator.com Follow @CoachKGrabowski 🎧 Subscribe for weekly Game Planning Tips and insight from top coaches in football. Presented by Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Hansen Ratings D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week, presented by Tully, hosts Logan and John sit down with three standout coaches who share the philosophies and preparation that drive their programs’ success in Division III football. First, Eric Stuedemann, Offensive Coordinator at North Central College (IL), explains how structured practice design, teamwork, and a balanced offensive approach fuel one of the most explosive programs in D3. Next, Ethan Nichol, Defensive Coordinator at Baldwin Wallace University (OH), discusses his creative use of “success cut-ups” — highlight reels that help players visualize their potential, build confidence, and reinforce positive habits. Finally, Head Coach Matt Janus of the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse reflects on the emotional and mental challenges of coaching, emphasizing accountability, self-reflection, and the importance of resetting under pressure. Together, these conversations offer powerful insights into how top D3 programs develop athletes, build trust, and sustain excellence on and off the field. Chapters Introduction with Logan and John, setting up the week’s featured Division III coaches Eric Stuedemann on North Central College’s offensive identity and system design Building balance and tempo within North Central’s offensive attack How practice structure mirrors real game conditions Team chemistry, collaboration, and shared accountability among coaches Ethan Nichol introduces the “success cut-up” concept and its impact on players Reinforcing confidence and motivation through positive film study The mindset behind creating repeatable success on defense Matt Janus on handling pressure and practicing self-reflection in coaching Resetting after setbacks and finding growth through accountability How mentorship and support sustain long-term coaching excellence Closing reflections on culture, preparation, and the drive to keep improving Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski John Snell: @jsnellbwfb Logan Hansen: @LogHanRatings Eric Stuedemann: @CoachStuedemann Ethan Nichol: @EthanNichol10 Matt Janus: @UWLCoachJanus Tully: @TullyTracking Presented by Tully — the perfect tool for high school and Division III programs. Tully helps coaches track readiness, performance, and player development so teams can stay strong and confident deep into the season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit tully.app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices