Coach and Coordinator Podcast Keith Grabowski

Today’s episode of Coach and Coordinator is with Justin Robinson, the Defensive Coordinator at Marian University who was honored as the AFCA 2023 NAIA Assistant Coach of the Year. In this conversation, Coach Robinson uncovers valuable wisdom and practical strategies that can aid your coaching approach. His journey is one of inspiration, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence, and his methods and insights have helped him propel his team to new heights.

In this episode, we explore three important concepts that every coach can implement to elevate their performance and impact: the powerful "Three I's" approach, the importance of building authentic relationships, and the art of developing superior confidence in players. Additionally, we'll explore Coach Robinson’s defensive strategy known as the "divorced front defense," which has been a game-changer against today’s RPO-heavy offenses. We'll also uncover his philosophy of "Any Front, Any Blitz, Any Time," showcasing his fearless and adaptable approach to defense.

Stay tuned after the episode as we share our winning edge takeaways from our conversation with Justin Robinson, the 2023 NAIA Assistant Coach of the Year.

Show Notes:

Formative Coaching Years

The Three I's: Inspire, Impact, Ignite

Playing with NFL Talents

Building Strong Relationships

Defensive Philosophy: Any Front, Any Blitz, Any Time

Defensive Strategy: Divorce Front

Coaching Aspirations and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Winning Edge


Thank you for supporting our partners:
Learn More about Vertical Raise:
Vertical Raise is the premier online fundraising platform, using innovative technology to create the easiest and most efficient system available. Raise more money in less time, with a local fundraising coach who works with your team every step of the way to customize the ideal fundraiser. With options for online donations, digital discount cards, premium product sales, and even spirit shops, Vertical Raise has top-of-the-line solutions for every fundraising style. To find out more, visit VerticalRaise.com, and get connected with an exclusive offer on your first fundraiser.
Learn More about FirstDown Playbook:
FirstDown PlayBook is a coaching tool and program management system with over 35,000 customizable plays, defenses, and special teams schemes. With tools such as video pairing, practice schedules, wristband creation, practice scripts, scouting reports, and a player app, FirstDown PlayBook helps save time and organize your program all in one place. Schedule a 15-minute Zoom meeting with former NFL coach Charlie Coiner or call  (512) 814-6158 to receive a one-week free trial. Or use the coupon code COACH24 to receive a $100 discount on a team membership.
Learn More about Modern Football Technology:
Battle-tested, Modern Football’s platform provides real-time self-scout and opponent tendencies, while eliminating manual tagging into HUDL, DV Sport, and XOS. Trusted by teams at every level, see how top coaches leverage this platform for in-game decision-making and play-calling success. To book a demo, visit www.teammofo.com/demo. Mention Coach and Coordinator Podcast or use the coupon code CC10 when signing up for a demo to receive 10% off your first year.
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On this Coach and Coordinator Podcast, we bring you a story of transformation, resilience, and the unyielding spirit of coaching.  

We sit down with Zach Crespo, a former college football coach who transitioned from the high-stakes world of coaching in the Power 5 to a fulfilling career that keeps him close to the game he loves.

Zach's journey is marked by dedication, adaptability, and the courage to balance professional ambition with personal fulfillment. From his early days as a student assistant at the University of Central Florida under legendary coach George O'Leary, to coaching at top-tier programs, Zach's experiences have shaped him into a mentor and leader off the field.

Zach shares the lessons he learned in college football, the pivotal moments that led him to step away from coaching, and how he found new purpose and success with Vertical Raise, a company revolutionizing fundraising for athletic programs.

Zach's story resonates with situations we all must face within our careers. The crossroads he faced are something we all reflect on. I know every year in November I get calls from college coaches contemplating what their next steps are inside or outside of the game. For Zach, it led to a lucrative career while still getting his coaching fix as a “fundraising coach.”

While Zach decided a pivot was necessary, his insight is valuable to any coach inside or outside of the game right now, especially as you think about how you develop your skills and relationships.


Show Notes:

Zack Crespo's Coaching Journey Begins

Working Under George O'Leary

Transition to GA and Scott Frost Era

Moving to Nebraska and North Carolina

Decision to Leave Coaching

Challenges of Transitioning Careers

Importance of Organization

Building Relationships in and out of Coaching

Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Coaches

Winning Edge


Zach Crespo Contact Info:
Email: ZachCrespo@VerticalRaise.com
Phone: 919-704-1351
X: @CoachZachCrespo

Interested in a career with Vertical Raise click here. Mention Coach and Coordinator Podcast in the message.

Learn more about Vertical Raise - Elevate your program's Online  Fundraising to new heights
Use Vertical Raise’s online fundraising system and raise more money in less time:

https://verticalraise.com

Multiple fundraising solutions to fit all your program needs

Leverage best-in-class technology, texting & email deliverability.

An in-person local fundraising coach walks your team through every step of the process.


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In this episode of Kileleni - To The Summit with host Patrick Steenberge, Troy Calhoun, head coach at the United States Air Force Academy, discusses leadership, resilience, and commitment. He highlights leading by example, building team chemistry, and continuous learning. Troy shares his journey from upbringing to coaching future leaders, emphasizing the importance of education and personal growth. The conversation also reflects on visiting troops overseas and the traits of courage, initiative, and commitment in facing challenges. The interview underscores supporting and guiding the next generation and offers valuable insights on coaching, leadership, and personal development for individuals of all backgrounds.

Show Notes:

Life and Coaching Reflections

Overcoming Adversity

Early Challenges and Growth

Goals and Discoveries

Unexpected Opportunities

Team Success and Chemistry

Military Visits and Gratitude

Winning Edge


Learn more about Global Football and how you can create an experience that will provide an impactful life experience for your football program.

https://www.globalfootball.com/

Learn more about Vertical Raise - Elevate your program's Online  Fundraising to new heights
Use Vertical Raise’s online fundraising system and raise more money in less time:

https://verticalraise.com

Multiple fundraising solutions to fit all your program needs

Leverage best-in-class technology, texting & email deliverability.

An in-person local fundraising coach walks your team through every step of the process. 


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In this clinic segment, AJ Smith, the innovative offensive coordinator for the San Antonio Brahmas sheds light on the philosophy and strategy behind an offense. Coach Smith brings a unique perspective on the hybrid offense, blending elements of the air raid and run and shoot styles. He talks about the intricacies of his coaching philosophy and how he orchestrates a high-octane offense.

Show Notes:

Background on the hybrid offense

Similarities between run and shoot and air raid

The significance of "the box"

Being different in offensive strategies

Identifying a run and shoot team

Benefits of the half-roll system

The importance of the sprint draw play

Execution of the sprint draw play

Defining your offensive philosophy

Winning Edge


Remember to sign up for the National Air Raid Clinic - One Back Edition being held virtually 
https://2024airraid.coachesclinic.com/

Episodes with AJ Smith:
Keeping It Simple and Continuing to Evolve Your Style 
OC Office Hour - Trends Showing Up Early Season
The Most Important Components Of Offense

Thank you for supporting our partners:
Learn More about Vertical Raise:
Vertical Raise is the premier online fundraising platform, using innovative technology to create the easiest and most efficient system available. Raise more money in less time, with a local fundraising coach who works with your team every step of the way to customize the ideal fundraiser. With options for online donations, digital discount cards, premium product sales, and even spirit shops, Vertical Raise has top-of-the-line solutions for every fundraising style. To find out more, visit VerticalRaise.com, and get connected with an exclusive offer on your first fundraiser.
Learn More about FirstDown Playbook:
FirstDown PlayBook is a coaching tool and program management system with over 35,000 customizable plays, defenses, and special teams schemes. With tools such as video pairing, practice schedules, wristband creation, practice scripts, scouting reports, and a 
player app, FirstDown PlayBook helps save time and organize your program all in one place. Schedule a 15-minute Zoom meeting with former NFL coach Charlie Coiner or call  (512) 814-6158 to receive a one-week free trial. Or use the coupon code COACH24 to receive a $100 discount on a team membership.
Learn More about Modern Football Technology:
Battle-tested, Modern Football’s platform provides real-time self-scout and opponent tendencies, while eliminating manual tagging into HUDL, DV Sport, and XOS. Trusted by teams at every level, see how top coaches leverage this platform for in-game decision making and play-calling success. To book a demo, visit www.teammofo.com/demo. Mention Coach and Coordinator Podcast or use the coupon code CC10 when signing up for a demo to receive 10% off your first year.
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In this episode, Patrick Steenberge, the CEO and founder of Global Football is joined by Ray Priori, the head coach at Penn. Their discussion covers a range of topics, from their experiences on their trip to China, to the importance of trust, perseverance, leadership, and stewardship in coaching and team success. We explore the valuable insights shared by Coach Priori in this engaging and enlightening conversation.

Show Notes:

Building a first-class team trip to China.

Mentor influences in coaching career.

Overcoming adversity and team success.

Perseverance and leadership in football.

Identifying ideal student-athletes for Penn.

Success factors: trust, perseverance, leadership, stewardship.

Winning Edge


Learn more about Global Football and how you can create an experience that will provide an impactful life experience for your football program:
https://www.globalfootball.com/
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Thank you for supporting our partners:
Learn More about Vertical Raise:
Vertical Raise is the premier online fundraising platform, using innovative technology to create the easiest and most efficient system available. Raise more money in less time, with a local fundraising coach who works with your team every step of the way to customize the ideal fundraiser. With options for online donations, digital discount cards, premium product sales, and even spirit shops, Vertical Raise has top-of-the-line solutions for every fundraising style. To find out more, visit VerticalRaise.com, and get connected with an exclusive offer on your first fundraiser.
Learn More about FirstDown Playbook:
FirstDown PlayBook is a coaching tool and program management system with over 35,000 customizable plays, defenses, and special teams schemes. With tools such as video pairing, practice schedules, wristband creation, practice scripts, scouting reports, and a player app, FirstDown PlayBook helps save time and organize your program all in one place. Schedule a 15-minute Zoom meeting with former NFL coach Charlie Coiner or call  (512) 814-6158 to receive a one-week free trial. Or use the coupon code COACH24 to receive a $100 discount on a team membership.
Learn More about Modern Football Technology:
Battle-tested, Modern Football’s platform provides real-time self-scout and opponent tendencies, while eliminating manual tagging into HUDL, DV Sport, and XOS. Trusted by teams at every level, see how top coaches leverage this platform for in-game decision making and play-calling success. To book a demo, visit www.teammofo.com/demo. Mention Coach and Coordinator Podcast or use the coupon code CC10 when signing up for a demo to receive 10% off your first year.
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In this Clinic Series episode from the 2024 COOL Clinic, we gain insight into becoming a head coach after starting as an offensive line coach from Andy Reid and Sherrone Moore. Andy Reid discusses why offensive line coaches excel as head coaches, emphasizing the unique qualities they bring to leadership roles.
Then Sherrone Moore reflects on his journey from an offensive line coach to a head coach, shedding light on the challenges and transitions he encountered along the way.

Show Notes:

Andy Reid on Why O-Line Coaches Make Great Head Coaches

Sherrone Moore's Journey to Head Coach

The Transition from Coach to Head Coach

Importance of Continuous Learning in Coaching

Coaching Individuals and Player Development

Responsibilities of an Offensive Line Coach

Advancing from O-Line Coach to Coordinator

Managing Time and Responsibilities as a Coordinator

The Story of the Game from an O-Line Perspective

The Role and Challenges of a Head Coach


Full Presentations from the 2024 C.O.O.L. Clinic™:
Andy Reid - From OL Coach to Head Coach
Sherrone Moore - Coaching Transition & Two Back Run Game Development

Thank you for supporting our partners:
Learn More about Vertical Raise:
Vertical Raise is the premier online fundraising platform, using innovative technology to create the easiest and most efficient system available. To find out more, visit VerticalRaise.com, and get connected with an exclusive offer on your first fundraiser.
Learn More about FirstDown Playbook:
FirstDown PlayBook is a coaching tool and program management system with over 35,000 customizable plays, defenses, and special teams schemes. Schedule a 15-minute Zoom meeting with former NFL coach Charlie Coiner or call  (512) 814-6158 to receive a one-week free trial. Or use the coupon code COACH24 to receive a $100 discount on a team membership.
Learn More about Modern Football Technology:
Battle-tested, Modern Football’s platform provides real-time self-scout and opponent tendencies, while eliminating manual tagging into HUDL, DV Sport, and XOS. To book a demo, visit www.teammofo.com/demo. Mention Coach and Coordinator Podcast or use the coupon code CC10 when signing up for a demo to receive 10% off your first year.
Learn More about Signature Championship Rings:
Signature Championship Rings is a leading designer and supplier of championship rings, serving over 10,000 teams and organizations. With a focus on quality craftsmanship, easy team ordering processes, and affordability, Signature Champions celebrate every champion and their achievements, making their moment last a lifetime. For more information, visit www.signaturechampions.com/podcast.

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