Coach and Coordinator Podcast Keith Grabowski

In this episode, AJ Antonescu, Offensive Live Coach at Lake Travis High School in Austin, Texas, discusses how the Cavaliers deploy technology to improve their self-scouting and game planning.
Through real-time data analysis and opponent tendencies from Modern Football Technology, Coach Antonescu explores how this technology platform enhances game strategy, player performance, and staff efficiency. Antonescu also highlights time-saving benefits and workflow improvements, emphasizing the crucial role Modern Football Technology plays in optimizing game plans and program efficiency.

Show Notes:

Rule Changes in Texas

Live Data in California

Workflow Efficiency Benefits

Utilizing Technology on Game Day

Position-Specific Data Analysis

Impact of Technology on the Program

Workflow Streamlining with Technology

Future of Technology in Football

Work-Life Balance Benefits

Winning Edge


Follow AJ Atonescu on X at @AJAntonescu.

Additional Coach Antonescu Episode:
The Use of Technology for a More Efficient and Effective Self-Scout

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 today’s episode of Coaching Coordinator presented by Vertical Raise, we are joined by Rob Zimmerman, the head coach of the DeWitt Panthers, who has had a remarkable career spanning 27 years. Under his leadership, the team has achieved an impressive record of 250 wins and 54 losses, reaching the semifinals or finals 14 times and winning the state championship in 2020. Zimmerman shares his sustained passion for coaching and discusses the importance of adapting to the evolving nature of the game. He emphasizes the significance of building strong relationships with players, the community's support, and the stability provided by his long-term coaching staff.

Zimmerman also shares his challenges, particularly during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, and his strategies to maintain consistency and success in his program. He highlights the importance of making football enjoyable for players through team activities and community involvement and the joy he brings to the game. Additionally, he touches on the effective use of the fundraising platform Vertical Raise, which has significantly streamlined their fundraising efforts. Zimmerman concludes by discussing his offensive strategies, emphasizing the adaptability of their schemes to fit their players' strengths, which keeps the game exciting and challenging for both the team and their opponents.

Chapters:

Coach Zimmerman's Energy and Passion

Adapting to Changes in Football Coaching

Challenges Faced During the Season

Building Consistency in the Program

Utilizing Technology for Fundraising

Offensive Schemes and Strategies

Simplifying Complex Plays for Players

Making Football Fun for Players

Importance of Building Relationships

Winning Edge


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.

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In today's episode of Coach and Coordinator, Tyler Hopperton, the head football coach at Mount St. Joseph, joins us to discuss his innovative approach to building a program and ideas that raise the bar.

Coach Hoperton was named head coach at 27 years old, without prior coordinator experience. In his first 7 seasons as Head Football Coach, Hopperton has earned a 51-17 overall record (41-9 HCAC) and has led the Lions to the program’s 5th HCAC Championship in 2018, 6th HCAC Championship and NCAA Playoff appearance in 2022, and 7th HCAC Championship and NCAA Playoff appearance in 2023. He was named the HCAC Coach of the Year in 2022 and 2023. 

In our conversation, he shares his journey and coaching philosophy, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and transparency with his players. He discusses organizing his coaching staff, focusing on transparency, and aligning with the program's values. He offers unique insights into special teams, highlighting the need for clear drills and efficient practice time. 

We highlight one of his innovative strategies: not having a traditional depth chart during training camp. This promotes competition and accelerated learning among players and benefits the program.

Show Notes:

Setting the Bar High

Building the Coaching Staff

Focusing on Special Teams

Revolutionizing Training Camps

Nurturing True Depth

Embracing Change and Growth

Reflecting and Improving

Adding Value and Solving Problems

Winning Edge


Coach Hopperton's Course on Special Teams:
Systematizing Your Return Units

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.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this segment from his presentation at the 2024 C.O.O.L. Clinic, LSU Offensive Line Coach Brad Davis discusses his coaching philosophy, focusing on preparing learners for long-term success by developing critical decision-making skills and a deep understanding of the game's principles. 

He emphasizes creating a seamless learning environment from the classroom to the field using visual aids, movement-based teaching, and individualized education plans. Encouraging effort, communication, and a culture of relentless preparation through coaching acronyms like PEAK prepares players for optimal performance in high-stakes games like those in the SEC. The holistic approach aims to instill adaptability, teamwork, and continuous learning, essential for success in competitive football.

Show Notes:

Progression and Philosophy

Learning Environment

Visual Learning Aids

Active Learning Techniques

Teaching Progression and Effort

Coaching Acronym - PEAK

Winning Edge


Coach and Coordinator 10% Tool Kit
Are you ready to take your game to the next level? At the Coach and Coordinator Podcast, we're on a mission to develop The 10% Coach. That’s why we've created The 10% Toolkit – your go-to repository for the latest and greatest products and services in the coaching marketplace.

Coach Davis’ C.O.O.L. Clinic Presentation:
Brad Davis - The Progression: Teaching Run and Pass Game
This is a thorough look at Coach Davis’ philosophy and application to a game week.  He takes you through each day of the week and his work as an offensive line coach to prepare his players for game day.  He includes his approach to the classroom and walkthroughs and the aspects of teaching that best prepare his players.  This is a template for a detailed approach to a week of coaching regardless of the position you coach.

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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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.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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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