Tom Rinaldi Presents: Sacred Acre

FOX Sports
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Tom Rinaldi Presents: Sacred Acre

Step into the world of Sacred Acre with Tom Rinaldi, who's back for Season 2 as he uncovers the profound story of Ed Thomas, the legendary high school football coach from Parkersburg, Iowa. In this gripping 6-part series, Rinaldi takes you back to explore Thomas’s remarkable journey—from his acclaimed role as the 2005 NFL High School Coach of the Year to his pivotal role in rebuilding Parkersburg after a devastating EF-5 tornado. Just a year later, Thomas's life was tragically cut short when he was murdered by a troubled former player. Experience the impact of Thomas’s values of Faith, Family, Football, and Forgiveness through intimate interviews with those who knew him best. Each episode reveals how his legacy continues to shape and inspire his community even fifteen years after his death. New episodes of Sacred Acre drop every Thursday.  Follow & Subscribe to never miss an episode.

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  1. EPISODE 1

    S02 Episode 01: Coach and Community

    Episode One explores the life and legacy of Ed Thomas, a legendary football coach from Aplington-Parkersburg, Iowa, who was tragically killed. Over 36 seasons, he led his team to two state titles and helped four players reach the NFL, all from a town of just 2,000. Hear from NFL alumni Casey Wiegmann, Brad Meester, Jared DeVries, and Aaron Kampman as they share their experiences with Coach Thomas. We examine why he was named the NFL's National Coach of the Year in 2005 and his coaching philosophy that emphasized effort and character. We also hear from Ed’s grandson, Gavin, the quarterback for the 2023 Falcons, reflecting on his grandfather's lasting influence. Join us for a tribute to a coach who made a profound impact on his community and the sport. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    34 min

  2. EPISODE 2

    S02 Episode 02: The Beckers

    Episode Two explores Ed Thomas's early years as head coach in Parkersburg, focusing on his first captain, Dave Becker. A standout player who set multiple tackling records, Becker formed a strong bond with Thomas, who even helped him meet his future wife, Joan.   We delve into the Becker family's story and their connection to Ed and the football program. Additionally, we address the challenges faced by their son, Mark, as he navigates mental health issues and substance use. Join us as we examine the lasting impact Ed Thomas had on the families he inspired. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    35 min

  3. EPISODE 3

    S02 Episode 03: Concrete's Dry

    In May 2008, An EF-5 ravaged Iowa and tore up most of the town of Parkersburg. The damage was near atomic. The Thomas family lost their home. Applington-Parkersburg High School was unrecognizable. But the recovery happened immediately. Ed Thomas was undeterred in his goal of getting the football field ready for play within 100 days. His leadership would be covered by media outlets throughout Iowa and the nation. Thomas had become his town's most-beloved citizen. Tom Rinaldi takes you behind the scenes in episode 3 as Thomas and his team inspire their town. Thomas gives a resounding and emotional locker room speech and the Falcons win on the Sacred Acre. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    38 min

  4. EPISODE 4

    S02 Episode 04: June 24th

    *Producer's Note: Please be advised that there are graphic descriptions of gun violence in this episode. Listener discretion is advised. Episode 4 reveals the origins of Mark’s struggles with the law and his mental health. We take you through the fatal day on June 24th, when Ed Thomas was murdered. Eyewitness testimony from the scene reveals the drama in rich detail. We hear the shooter, Mark Becker, in a psychotic state after the shooting.  In a stunning gesture that resonated nationwide, we experience the grace and forgiveness displayed by the Thomas family to the Beckers. And we hear Aaron’s moving words and sentiments of forgiveness, asking for prayers for the Becker family in the midst of the tragedy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    41 min

  5. EPISODE 5

    S02 Episode 05: Lots of questions why...

    In Episode 5, we explore the aftermath of Ed Thomas' tragic killing and how the Parkersburg community struggled to reconcile with the devastating circumstances. Through heartfelt interviews with friends, former players, family, and even local politicians, we capture the profound impact Coach Thomas had on those around him. This episode also delves into the extraordinary grace and forgiveness extended by the Thomas family to the Beckers, a gesture that held deep significance in the wake of the tragedy. We take you inside the courtroom for the gripping testimony during Mark Becker’s murder trial. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    37 min

  6. EPISODE 9

    S02 Episode 06: Burden and Blessing

    In the final episode of 'Sacred Acre,' we return to Parkersburg to see how Ed Thomas is still impacting the town and the football program. A new interim head coach carries on the traditions, including an inspirational pregame speech.   Earlier in 2024, another school shooting in the state, this time in Perry. The circumstances, and the victims, hit close to home with the Thomas family.   And those closest to Ed Thomas reflect on his enduring legacy and the lessons learned from the tragedy of his murder. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    34 min
  7. Season 2 Preview

    SEASON 2 TRAILER

    Season 2 Preview

    Tom Rinaldi is back with Season 2 of Tom Rinaldi Presents: Sacred Acre as he delves into the inspiring legacy of Ed Thomas, the revered high school football coach from Parkersburg, Iowa. This 6-part series chronicles Thomas’s journey from being the 2005 NFL High School Coach of the Year to his heroic efforts in rebuilding his community after an EF-5 tornado. Tragically, Thomas's life was cut short when he was murdered by a former player. Through powerful interviews, discover how his values of Faith, Family, Football, and Forgiveness continue to resonate in Parkersburg today. New episodes every Thursday. Follow & Subscribe to stay updated. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    3 min
See All Season 2 (7)

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Step into the world of Sacred Acre with Tom Rinaldi, who's back for Season 2 as he uncovers the profound story of Ed Thomas, the legendary high school football coach from Parkersburg, Iowa. In this gripping 6-part series, Rinaldi takes you back to explore Thomas’s remarkable journey—from his acclaimed role as the 2005 NFL High School Coach of the Year to his pivotal role in rebuilding Parkersburg after a devastating EF-5 tornado. Just a year later, Thomas's life was tragically cut short when he was murdered by a troubled former player. Experience the impact of Thomas’s values of Faith, Family, Football, and Forgiveness through intimate interviews with those who knew him best. Each episode reveals how his legacy continues to shape and inspire his community even fifteen years after his death. New episodes of Sacred Acre drop every Thursday.  Follow & Subscribe to never miss an episode.

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