To borrow a line from famed Notre Dame sports writer Grantland Rice, outlined against a blue, gray April sky the Alercio OLine Clinic rode again at the Hun School of Princeton this past Sunday. The historic campus provided the perfect backdrop for our tradition of offensive line development excellence.
Players rotated through specialized stations focusing on fundamental skills: proper stance and first-step explosion, hand placement techniques for both blocking scenarios, and communication protocols for various defensive fronts. The progress from morning to afternoon was remarkable, with many young men showing dramatic improvement in their technique and understanding of leverage points.
As stated in last week’s blog, the clinic also provided an opportunity for players to connect with teammates and build relationships. I watched with pride as veterans took underclassmen under their wing, demonstrating drills and offering encouragement. During breaks, camaraderie was palpable as stories were shared across school boundaries—rivals on Friday nights becoming colleagues in the craft of line play.
Another benefit was exposure to different coaching styles and philosophies, expanding players’ understanding of their unique position in football. Our diverse coaching staff brought multiple perspectives on technique and mindset.
Participants should build upon this experience by continuing to gather throughout Spring and Summer. Remember, championships aren’t won on Friday nights in the fall—they’re earned through the invisible work put in during these crucial development months.
Our next clinic is on Sunday, May 25th at West Orange High School in New Jersey. Bring your hard hat and lunch pail attitude—we’ll provide the knowledge and skills to help you dominate the line of scrimmage this fall.
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!
O Line Skills 