Every season provides a new set of challenges: replacing starters, cultivating new leaders, forming, storming, and norming a new team. This season presents never seen before challenges: no linemen in 7v7, no running game, no blocking and tackling, no locker room, no weight room and no opportunity to again compete for a state championship.
The culture of our program is born in our weight room, thrives in our locker room and is driven by the pursuit of championships. We use the complementary effects of these elements to reinforce character, culture, and commitment. Without those things, both players and coaches may have a perception this year is different, and therefore brings a different level of expectation…
The guiding principles and core values of our program will never change. Adherence to the culture remains the expectation and the standard. Common vision, common purpose, common values… Together, we are so much more than any of us could be alone.
In a recent conversation on this topic with a friend of over 40 years who now coaches football in Florida, he shared an analogy with me “Commitment is key… A plug that is halfway in and halfway out of an outlet does not work.” Every year we adopt a slogan or motto that we put on every practice schedule so that the players are reminded of it every day. This year, despite the difference in circumstances, the Hilltoppers will be “Plugged In,” and committed.
Coach Rich Alercio is available to discuss coaching philosophy, X’s & O’s, or teach his O-Line “techniques in the trenches.” Contact Coach at richalercio@gmail.com and share http://www.olineskills.com with your colleagues and friends. Thanks for supporting this blog and joining our conversations, and as always, thanks for your time!
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