As many of you know, I live on four acres south of Upper Sandusky (no not Cedar Point) in a farmhouse that was built in 1851. With the nest totally empty, I do not get involved with sports in the town. That is what I prefer, because I do not have the experience to contribute to athletics. There are far more frustrated "jocks" who know more that I. Shoot, there are more dads who never played a sport, but have watched Ohio State and the Cleveland Browns, and, now they have forgotten more about football than I will ever know.
At McD's this morning, a parent told me that a midget league team in Upper Sandusky beat another team by the score of 66-0. Supposedly, the coach did everything he could to keep the score down. 66-0!!! I bet if for some reason, his son was on the losing team, he would not have scored 66 points. Wait, knowing that he had a highly successful athletic career at Upper Sandusky, he might have. No character assassination here, but just another high school player trying to live the dream of being a coach.
A few years ago, I was driving by a midget league practice and the coach become upset at the kids. He made them run over 300 yards, and they went right back to scrimmaging. They were 10-12 year kids. But I am sure that they were tougher and more disciplined because of that move. Many years ago, a group of parents got to together and had a midget league head coach replaced in mid-season. Now this is midget league, not the NFL. He was not replaced for his treatment of kids, but because he was not winning. Midget league, do not forget.
My suggestion this morning was every year in March the league put all of the names in a hat and redraft every player, regardless of what team that he played on. Obviously, the league has enough equipment. One of the boys on the team that was beaten 66-0, would have a chance to be on the team that scored the 66 points. Of course, the coach might redshirt him or put him on the practice squad. Just think of the new team comraderie that would develop. Also, a boy would have a chance to learn from a new coach.
A few years ago I brought my idea up to some midget league coaches. Answers ---" But we have our systems and our depth charts set. We would have to reteach our techniques, and players would have to learn a new defense and offense." I just put my head down and walked away.
A friend of mine who is a successful lawyer once told me that he played both seventh and eighth grade football and never got into a game. I know a coach who would substitute players, until the other team started closing the gap. Then he would call a timeout and put the first group back in the game. This coach is a teacher/coach in the system and does a lot for athletics. But is he really developing character, or feeding his own ego?
What really set me off today was a news story on the noon flatscreen news. A seventh grade coach hit a player who was running along the sideline on the last play of the game. The game was in Utah. The player suffered a concussion, but should be alright. The 30-40 something coach actually looks like he would hit his 90 year old mother for spilling some milk. He also looks like he does not know if you blow up a football or stuff it. I am guessing he never got much playing time in high school, but he did get a senior letter given to all seniors.
They are filing child abuse charges against him. His lawyer made sure that people realize that he did not step on the field. That's huge. Not step on the field, but still gave a seventh grader a concussion. That makes sense! I mean the guy is a coach of a school sponsored team. Schools develop young people academically and socially. Sports are a part of that. Hopefully, a school is not desperate to the point where they have to hire guys with a mentality like this seventh grade coach.
One more war story. A few years there was a local head football coach who had no communication skills when it came to coaching football. None. Absolutely none. Four letter words, the Lord's name in vain. Remembering a player's name. No communication skills, period. I asked my eight graders what would happen if I swore in class, or used the "F-bomb, or used the Lord's name in vain? They said that I would get "fired! I asked them how does a junior high or high school coach could get away with using that language. Their answer - " He is a coach, you are just a teacher."
Someone has to step up and say, "Enough." If the good people are not working with the kids, find the good people who can develop into good coaches. The league commisssioner, the schools athletic director, or a group of parents (possibly) needs to take responsibilty and get good people who can work with young people. Might be hard for the person in charge to make those decisions, but that goes with the position.
John McCallister is not going to change youth sports in Upper Sandusky. But you, as a parent, use good judgment in youth sports. If you coach, let the big time coaching to Urban Meyer or Brady Hoke. Develop young people for the next level of competition. Do not try to make the finish product, just be part of the process. By the way, my two boys played high school football, but their late mother d said,"No," to youth football.
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Be Careful What You Say
Read in the Dispatch this morning that freshman backup quarterback Cardale Jones was suspended for the Nebraska game for sending out a stupid/silly message tweet. On Friday, being the sometimes funny young man that he is, Cardale questioned why college football players had to go to classes when they were there to play football.
Knowing Cardale a little bit, he was probably trying to be "cute." First met Cardale when he quarterbacking at Cleveland Glenville. Always thought he had potential, but was not always coachable, and he listened to too many "experts" in the recruiting world. However, he is just a young man entering the real world of college football. Cardale is just one of many that I deal with from time to time. And like grown men playing a sport and saying or tweeting something to be "cute," he has apologized to Coach Meyer. Cardale Jones is a good young man. When we see each other, we always chat a few minutes.
This is not about Cardale Jones and being silly. Not about the discipline of Coach Urban Meyer. Not about crackin on Jones for using twitter. Anytime an athlete wants to get some attention, he or she goes to their Twitter account and vents. Of course, when he or she is confronted, they will say that they acted out of frustration, and then apologize and everything is forgiven. This article is about using good judgment as an athlete.
I have unfriended prospects on facebook, because of the slang and because of some of the "stupid," not "silly" comments being made. Trust me, I am not "Clean Gene," by any stretch of the imagination. But I want to remind athletes that they must be aware that anything that they say can be put into any form of print, and be almost guaranteed that comment will be out there. Cell phone photos are so easy to use that even my 86 year old mother can take a pic with a cell phone.. Sad, but anytime an athlete is in public, he or she is fair game, regardless of the name.
Media people need content. Whether a beat reporter, a flat screen personality, internet person, or a sports talk host. Everybody is looking the "story." Better yet, these same people want to be the ones to break the "story." It is their job and, sometimes, that means"take no prisoners." Because an athlete is trying to be "cute," a comment on twitter, or facebook, or a picture, can turn that "cute" into "ugly." Nobody really wants that.
A picture or quote can appear anywhere. Everybody knows that. But, when the chance to be "cute," or as Coach Meyer used the word, "ignorant," an athlete really has to use good judgment. The consequences are not worth the bad choice. Plus, good or bad, public perception can be a very narrow, one way street. I always told my own three adult kids when they were in college, " be careful with the internet or cell phone, you will have to get a job someday."
Being an old 64 run teacher/coach, most of the young readers will smile and think that the old guy has to get in the modern world. But, "common sense" has been around for many years. It never goes away. Put our pride and ego aside, and use some common sense. Sometimes it can make all of the difference in making a choice.
Knowing Cardale a little bit, he was probably trying to be "cute." First met Cardale when he quarterbacking at Cleveland Glenville. Always thought he had potential, but was not always coachable, and he listened to too many "experts" in the recruiting world. However, he is just a young man entering the real world of college football. Cardale is just one of many that I deal with from time to time. And like grown men playing a sport and saying or tweeting something to be "cute," he has apologized to Coach Meyer. Cardale Jones is a good young man. When we see each other, we always chat a few minutes.
This is not about Cardale Jones and being silly. Not about the discipline of Coach Urban Meyer. Not about crackin on Jones for using twitter. Anytime an athlete wants to get some attention, he or she goes to their Twitter account and vents. Of course, when he or she is confronted, they will say that they acted out of frustration, and then apologize and everything is forgiven. This article is about using good judgment as an athlete.
I have unfriended prospects on facebook, because of the slang and because of some of the "stupid," not "silly" comments being made. Trust me, I am not "Clean Gene," by any stretch of the imagination. But I want to remind athletes that they must be aware that anything that they say can be put into any form of print, and be almost guaranteed that comment will be out there. Cell phone photos are so easy to use that even my 86 year old mother can take a pic with a cell phone.. Sad, but anytime an athlete is in public, he or she is fair game, regardless of the name.
Media people need content. Whether a beat reporter, a flat screen personality, internet person, or a sports talk host. Everybody is looking the "story." Better yet, these same people want to be the ones to break the "story." It is their job and, sometimes, that means"take no prisoners." Because an athlete is trying to be "cute," a comment on twitter, or facebook, or a picture, can turn that "cute" into "ugly." Nobody really wants that.
A picture or quote can appear anywhere. Everybody knows that. But, when the chance to be "cute," or as Coach Meyer used the word, "ignorant," an athlete really has to use good judgment. The consequences are not worth the bad choice. Plus, good or bad, public perception can be a very narrow, one way street. I always told my own three adult kids when they were in college, " be careful with the internet or cell phone, you will have to get a job someday."
Being an old 64 run teacher/coach, most of the young readers will smile and think that the old guy has to get in the modern world. But, "common sense" has been around for many years. It never goes away. Put our pride and ego aside, and use some common sense. Sometimes it can make all of the difference in making a choice.
Friday, October 5, 2012
Ty Howard - Twenty Years Later
When you have been in the football recruiting/evaluation business for almost twenty-five years, you meet many good people along the way. Being on the sidelines before and during games, once in a while a player from the past will walk up to me and introduce himself. Always fun to renew memories and friendships. Before last night's game at New Albany, I was totally surprised to see Ty Howard.
Ty Howard? First, I will tell you that Ty played football for the Buckeyes way back when. I am guessin about 1995-1997. At 5'9-180, he played with every ounce of ability that he had. He could run and, most of all, would finish. Excellent open field tackler. Good recovery speed. All of the tools, but only 5'9. What I remember most was not his football talents. Ty was a Columbus inner-city guy who respected people, and, most of all, did everything with class.
One story. Back then I did more or a "Lemming-type thing" where I met the propects, took their picture, and interviewd them. I met Ty at his home and visited with him on his front porch. After about ten minutes, I asked him to quit answering my every question with "Yes sir," or "No sir.." That lasted for about five minutes and then it was back to "Yes sir," or "No, sir."
Second story. When I saw him play against Columbus South High School, I knew he was special. He had a bad knee and the defenders were trying to hurt his knee. I believe it was still in the first half that Ty had had enough. He fought back and was ejected from the game. Since he was the only college prospect on the field, my work was over. I made a point to tell him that I had driven 65 miles to watch him play for a quarter and a half. Went on to say that I was disappointed (maybe some slang) and that he is going have to learn to control his emotions (maybe some more slang). After graduating from Briggs High School and Ohio State University, he spent four or five years in the League. Last team was with the Bengals, I believe.
Ty has moved back to Central Ohio and is coaching football at New Albany High School. His son Tyrell (2014) is a starting corner for New Albany. Like his father, Tyrell plays with all of his ability. Backpedals well and has good hips. Like his father, he was not blessed with height, but he gives effort. Only a junior, if he continues to work hard and stretch an inch, or maybe two, he should be fine. Obviously, sizes and times have increased since "Pop" ran the ball for Briggs High School over twenty years ago, but strength of character will always be important. If he is like his dad, Tyrell should have a chance.
As crazy as this may sound, I still have a picture from the Columbus Dispatch of Ty and his family celebrating the Christmas season. At least, it is in a drawer someplace. Not a Christmas present, but seeing Ty Howard last night was really good. Reminising for five minutes was good for me. Of course, I gave him my "five minute Woody Hayes lecture," on paying forward. Seeing young Africian American coaches who have "been there" working with high school football players is huge.
Now that I think about it, I can not remember Ty saying, "Yes sir," or "No sir," last night. But the class was still there. I would expect none the less.
Ty Howard? First, I will tell you that Ty played football for the Buckeyes way back when. I am guessin about 1995-1997. At 5'9-180, he played with every ounce of ability that he had. He could run and, most of all, would finish. Excellent open field tackler. Good recovery speed. All of the tools, but only 5'9. What I remember most was not his football talents. Ty was a Columbus inner-city guy who respected people, and, most of all, did everything with class.
One story. Back then I did more or a "Lemming-type thing" where I met the propects, took their picture, and interviewd them. I met Ty at his home and visited with him on his front porch. After about ten minutes, I asked him to quit answering my every question with "Yes sir," or "No sir.." That lasted for about five minutes and then it was back to "Yes sir," or "No, sir."
Second story. When I saw him play against Columbus South High School, I knew he was special. He had a bad knee and the defenders were trying to hurt his knee. I believe it was still in the first half that Ty had had enough. He fought back and was ejected from the game. Since he was the only college prospect on the field, my work was over. I made a point to tell him that I had driven 65 miles to watch him play for a quarter and a half. Went on to say that I was disappointed (maybe some slang) and that he is going have to learn to control his emotions (maybe some more slang). After graduating from Briggs High School and Ohio State University, he spent four or five years in the League. Last team was with the Bengals, I believe.
Ty has moved back to Central Ohio and is coaching football at New Albany High School. His son Tyrell (2014) is a starting corner for New Albany. Like his father, Tyrell plays with all of his ability. Backpedals well and has good hips. Like his father, he was not blessed with height, but he gives effort. Only a junior, if he continues to work hard and stretch an inch, or maybe two, he should be fine. Obviously, sizes and times have increased since "Pop" ran the ball for Briggs High School over twenty years ago, but strength of character will always be important. If he is like his dad, Tyrell should have a chance.
As crazy as this may sound, I still have a picture from the Columbus Dispatch of Ty and his family celebrating the Christmas season. At least, it is in a drawer someplace. Not a Christmas present, but seeing Ty Howard last night was really good. Reminising for five minutes was good for me. Of course, I gave him my "five minute Woody Hayes lecture," on paying forward. Seeing young Africian American coaches who have "been there" working with high school football players is huge.
Now that I think about it, I can not remember Ty saying, "Yes sir," or "No sir," last night. But the class was still there. I would expect none the less.
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Hats Off to Coach John Cooper Again
I have mentioned former Ohio State University Head Football Coach John Cooper in blogs before, but I want to applaude him one more time. Whether it is "old age wisdom," or simply "big time class," Coach Cooper has done it again.
Loyalty is huge for me. Always has been and always will be. Sometimes being loyal can almost be a fault. Ohio State football players, just like anyother college football program, are, for the most part, loyal to the coach for whom they played. Coach Hayes had "Woody's boys;" Coach Bruce had "Earle's boys;" Coach Cooper had "Coop's boys;" Coach Tressell had "Tress's boys;" Of course, Coach Meyers will have "Urban's boys."
Head football Coach Bo Pellini at Nebraska was recruited by and played two years for Coach Bruce. The final two years he played for John Cooper. Two different coaching philosophies. Of course, Coach Bruce's exit was not good for many Buckeye fans and Buckeye football players. I remember how some of the players handled the change in coaching, which is understandable.
If you read the comments that John Cooper made to the Dispatch recently about Bo Pellini's years at Ohio State, you appreciate the class of John Cooper. If you read futher about the communications that they have had over the years since, you appreciate the class of John Cooper. Bo Pellini was a 4.65 guy who played with every bit of ability that he had. He was a hard nosed blue collar guy from Youngstown. But I remember watching the sidelines during Ohio Sate games, and I appreciate the class of John Cooper.
Loyalty is huge for me. Always has been and always will be. Sometimes being loyal can almost be a fault. Ohio State football players, just like anyother college football program, are, for the most part, loyal to the coach for whom they played. Coach Hayes had "Woody's boys;" Coach Bruce had "Earle's boys;" Coach Cooper had "Coop's boys;" Coach Tressell had "Tress's boys;" Of course, Coach Meyers will have "Urban's boys."
Head football Coach Bo Pellini at Nebraska was recruited by and played two years for Coach Bruce. The final two years he played for John Cooper. Two different coaching philosophies. Of course, Coach Bruce's exit was not good for many Buckeye fans and Buckeye football players. I remember how some of the players handled the change in coaching, which is understandable.
If you read the comments that John Cooper made to the Dispatch recently about Bo Pellini's years at Ohio State, you appreciate the class of John Cooper. If you read futher about the communications that they have had over the years since, you appreciate the class of John Cooper. Bo Pellini was a 4.65 guy who played with every bit of ability that he had. He was a hard nosed blue collar guy from Youngstown. But I remember watching the sidelines during Ohio Sate games, and I appreciate the class of John Cooper.
Thursday Night Football in Central Ohio
Thursday night football is now in Central Ohio. Last week I made the trip to watch an excellent game between city powers Marion Franklin and Walnut Ridge. Tonight's televised game is between Olentangy and New Albany. Good coaches and good programs. Should be fun.
Looking forward to watching Olentangy's Andrew Simms who came to my camp last summer. Listed at 6'3-250, but getting bigger and stronger. Really athletic. Also his nasty streak. Have watched DB Buchi Okafor and QB Andrew Horstman mature over the years. Both came to my both my combine and my camp coming out of their sophomore years. Buchi plays FS and has committeed to Miami. Andrew is really coming into his own as a quarterback, but I do not know what level that he can play. OL Austin Schmidt, an Illinois commit is having a good season, as well.
Also have watched New Albany's Darron Lee for three years. First saw him at the OSU summer football camp. Last year, evaluated him during New Albany's run in the playoffs. After a very successful Ohio State camp, he earned an offer from OSU. A QB/SS now, the Buckeyes want him on defense. Physicality, along with his athleticism, make him a special player.
Olentangy head coach, Ed Terwilliger, probably does as good a job as any coach in Ohio with regards to rebuilding programs. Olentangy Liberty started back in 2003 and Olentangy Orange, maybe five years ago. Terwilliger lost players to both of the new schools and had to "remodel" his progam. Although he lost players to two new high schools, he has done well. Currently this year the "Braves" are 5-0.
The game will be well coached and intense. Knowing both programs, I would expect nothing less.
Looking forward to watching Olentangy's Andrew Simms who came to my camp last summer. Listed at 6'3-250, but getting bigger and stronger. Really athletic. Also his nasty streak. Have watched DB Buchi Okafor and QB Andrew Horstman mature over the years. Both came to my both my combine and my camp coming out of their sophomore years. Buchi plays FS and has committeed to Miami. Andrew is really coming into his own as a quarterback, but I do not know what level that he can play. OL Austin Schmidt, an Illinois commit is having a good season, as well.
Also have watched New Albany's Darron Lee for three years. First saw him at the OSU summer football camp. Last year, evaluated him during New Albany's run in the playoffs. After a very successful Ohio State camp, he earned an offer from OSU. A QB/SS now, the Buckeyes want him on defense. Physicality, along with his athleticism, make him a special player.
Olentangy head coach, Ed Terwilliger, probably does as good a job as any coach in Ohio with regards to rebuilding programs. Olentangy Liberty started back in 2003 and Olentangy Orange, maybe five years ago. Terwilliger lost players to both of the new schools and had to "remodel" his progam. Although he lost players to two new high schools, he has done well. Currently this year the "Braves" are 5-0.
The game will be well coached and intense. Knowing both programs, I would expect nothing less.
Monday, October 1, 2012
Player Interviews for Media
As an assistant high school football coach told me last Saturday night, "the new age" in high school recruiting is now. Of course, many of you whom read this blog, realize that I am always guarding the high school college prospect with the media. Not just internet media, but all media. After games, interviewing players has been going on for years. Even being on the flatscreen or radio has been going on for a long time. No problem, but becareful what you say to a reporter.
Calling players on the cell phone or contacting a player through Facebook goes on all of the time. In fact, many years ago, I wrote recruiting bios on the players in the Midwest for Allen Wallace of Super Prep. He wanted me to be more aggressive with my questions to the recruits not only in Ohio, but in all of the Midwest states. Moreover, he told me not to worry about upsetting high school or college coaches. As you can guess, that lasted for a year. Well known football recruiting reporter, Bill Kurelic took my position.
A football recruiting reporter in Northeast Ohio did an interview two weeks ago with a quarterback in the Class of 2014. When the story came out, there were quotes about college coaches that were never made. There were other mistakes, too. My advice to the recruit is to be careful with the answers. If the recruit is unhappy with the story, refuse to do another interview with that reporter. Simple as that.
I guess I am reacting to two recruiting articles on a website that covers Ohio State University.
1. A recruit does not have to answer every question.
2. Do not compare your official or unofficial visits to other schools. That should be something you keep among your family and high school coach.
3. Be careful commenting about college football coaches from any college program. If you do, blow them up and do not say anything negative to be made public.
4. Let the reporter find out what different terms mean. If someone asks what a " non-committable offer," is, tell them to ask a college coach. That is what I did, when someone told me that he had a "preferred walk-on redshirt."
5. Be careful about listing your three favorite schools. Be sure that all of the schools are recruiting you and that you do not forget a school who is really recruiting you. Again, show class and not disrepect a football program by what you say.
6. After visiting a school, ask your dad not to gain recognition by saying something "stupid" about a program or a visit. Look what happen to Colt McCoy after his dad had to "pop off." A dad has already done that after a recent gameday visit.
Football recruiting reporters want to develop a relationship with a recruit or a recruit's parents. Good chance that the reporter will casually, and often, remind a recruit to "break the news to him first," when he decides to commit. The more the recruit communicates with a reporter, the better the chance that this can happen.
Going through the football recruiting process can be one of the best times of a recruit's life. Try to keep everything in perspective. Use good judgment in what you say to be made public. Never forget - Recruiting is a business. Treat it that way.
Calling players on the cell phone or contacting a player through Facebook goes on all of the time. In fact, many years ago, I wrote recruiting bios on the players in the Midwest for Allen Wallace of Super Prep. He wanted me to be more aggressive with my questions to the recruits not only in Ohio, but in all of the Midwest states. Moreover, he told me not to worry about upsetting high school or college coaches. As you can guess, that lasted for a year. Well known football recruiting reporter, Bill Kurelic took my position.
A football recruiting reporter in Northeast Ohio did an interview two weeks ago with a quarterback in the Class of 2014. When the story came out, there were quotes about college coaches that were never made. There were other mistakes, too. My advice to the recruit is to be careful with the answers. If the recruit is unhappy with the story, refuse to do another interview with that reporter. Simple as that.
I guess I am reacting to two recruiting articles on a website that covers Ohio State University.
1. A recruit does not have to answer every question.
2. Do not compare your official or unofficial visits to other schools. That should be something you keep among your family and high school coach.
3. Be careful commenting about college football coaches from any college program. If you do, blow them up and do not say anything negative to be made public.
4. Let the reporter find out what different terms mean. If someone asks what a " non-committable offer," is, tell them to ask a college coach. That is what I did, when someone told me that he had a "preferred walk-on redshirt."
5. Be careful about listing your three favorite schools. Be sure that all of the schools are recruiting you and that you do not forget a school who is really recruiting you. Again, show class and not disrepect a football program by what you say.
6. After visiting a school, ask your dad not to gain recognition by saying something "stupid" about a program or a visit. Look what happen to Colt McCoy after his dad had to "pop off." A dad has already done that after a recent gameday visit.
Football recruiting reporters want to develop a relationship with a recruit or a recruit's parents. Good chance that the reporter will casually, and often, remind a recruit to "break the news to him first," when he decides to commit. The more the recruit communicates with a reporter, the better the chance that this can happen.
Going through the football recruiting process can be one of the best times of a recruit's life. Try to keep everything in perspective. Use good judgment in what you say to be made public. Never forget - Recruiting is a business. Treat it that way.
Friday, September 28, 2012
Columbus City League Game
Central Ohio now has a high school football game on Thursday night that fans can watch on the flatscreen, Northeast Ohio and Southwestern Ohio have been televising aThursday night game for the past three years. The games make another travel day for me, but also provide for a chance to watch more football.
Last night, Marion Franklin invaded Walnut Ridge and escaped with a 7-6 victory. The game was an exciting game, but not necessarily a well played game. Penalties and mistakes slowed the game down. Blocked and missed kicks actually hurt Walnut Ridge bigtime. But both teams played tough hard nose football.
Two high profile college bound prospects both did well. WR Jaron Dukes, Michigan bound, caught a ten yard touchdown pass late in the fourth quarter. Really did not get many passes thrown his way, but he made the big catch at the end. WR/DB Rob Wheelwright, Wisconsin bound, had a big punt return for six called back and made some athletic catches. Also liked his play at corner.
Both Walnut Ridge and Marion Franklin have some underclassmen who, I believe, are going to be top rated prospects going into their senior years. Of course, so much depends how hard they work in the weight room, in the classroom, and on the field. But LB Anthony McKee (2015), listed 6'2-189, from Walnut Ridge jumps out at linebacker. DE/OLB Robert Bowers (2014), listed 6'5-27, also from Walnut Ridge runs really well and makes plays. Do not like his "showtime attitude" but he can make plays. OL Martesse Patterson (2014), from Marion Franklin, listed 6'5-299, really impressed with his quick feet and OL instincts. Need to see more of Walnut Ridge's CB Brandon Paschal(2014). Listed 5'9-163 and had one pick. Problem, he played the game with a soft cast on his arm. What would he be full strength?
Need to mention Walnut Ridge senior Terry Cole. Actually have watched him since his freshman year. Plays some OL and defensive end. Also plays some linebacker. Listed 6'1-244. Ultimate team player. Size may be of some concern for some college recruiters, but he has a chance.
Just one note for young people who are thinking about becoming a football official. The field judge in this game was so concerned about players and coaches being "behind the line," that he could not concentrate on field play. When the offense has the ball "going in" on the 15 yard line and you are the field judge, do not worry about the coach stepping on the field to give a play to his quarterback. Worse yet do not throw a flag for a "bench warning" when the ball is in the red zone going in. Worse than worse, do not do this in the fourth quarter of a 7-6 ball game. That is not the intent of the rule. Above all, do not miss an offsides on a player who blocks an extra point with 4:35 remaining in the game with the score 7-6. Officials need to concentrate on the game.
This game was one that I hated to see either team lose. Both teams were well coached and played good tough football. Always next year, and with the underclassmen on the field last night, that game will be just as exciting.
Last night, Marion Franklin invaded Walnut Ridge and escaped with a 7-6 victory. The game was an exciting game, but not necessarily a well played game. Penalties and mistakes slowed the game down. Blocked and missed kicks actually hurt Walnut Ridge bigtime. But both teams played tough hard nose football.
Two high profile college bound prospects both did well. WR Jaron Dukes, Michigan bound, caught a ten yard touchdown pass late in the fourth quarter. Really did not get many passes thrown his way, but he made the big catch at the end. WR/DB Rob Wheelwright, Wisconsin bound, had a big punt return for six called back and made some athletic catches. Also liked his play at corner.
Both Walnut Ridge and Marion Franklin have some underclassmen who, I believe, are going to be top rated prospects going into their senior years. Of course, so much depends how hard they work in the weight room, in the classroom, and on the field. But LB Anthony McKee (2015), listed 6'2-189, from Walnut Ridge jumps out at linebacker. DE/OLB Robert Bowers (2014), listed 6'5-27, also from Walnut Ridge runs really well and makes plays. Do not like his "showtime attitude" but he can make plays. OL Martesse Patterson (2014), from Marion Franklin, listed 6'5-299, really impressed with his quick feet and OL instincts. Need to see more of Walnut Ridge's CB Brandon Paschal(2014). Listed 5'9-163 and had one pick. Problem, he played the game with a soft cast on his arm. What would he be full strength?
Need to mention Walnut Ridge senior Terry Cole. Actually have watched him since his freshman year. Plays some OL and defensive end. Also plays some linebacker. Listed 6'1-244. Ultimate team player. Size may be of some concern for some college recruiters, but he has a chance.
Just one note for young people who are thinking about becoming a football official. The field judge in this game was so concerned about players and coaches being "behind the line," that he could not concentrate on field play. When the offense has the ball "going in" on the 15 yard line and you are the field judge, do not worry about the coach stepping on the field to give a play to his quarterback. Worse yet do not throw a flag for a "bench warning" when the ball is in the red zone going in. Worse than worse, do not do this in the fourth quarter of a 7-6 ball game. That is not the intent of the rule. Above all, do not miss an offsides on a player who blocks an extra point with 4:35 remaining in the game with the score 7-6. Officials need to concentrate on the game.
This game was one that I hated to see either team lose. Both teams were well coached and played good tough football. Always next year, and with the underclassmen on the field last night, that game will be just as exciting.
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Marketing in High School Football
Two weeks ago I was watchiing the Shaker Heights team warm-up and this guy was walking around the field taking notes from certain players. The players were stretching and he was asking them questions. After the initial stretching, this same guy had probably 6 players circled around him on the sidelines, and he was getting phone numbers. Remember- this was while they were in pregame warm-ups. I asked some guy from Shaker who that guy was. Answer, "I think that he is from ESPN." I guess I should have known.
After this coach told me that, I just shook my head. His answer, "I guess it is all about marketing." Why would a head football coach allow this to happen? Do you think Chuck Kyle, Steve Specht, Mike Mauk, or Tom Bolden would let this happen. Regardless of the success of the program, this is silly. No - do not tell me about marketing. I deal with colleges all over the country. They know about the kids in Ohio.
Hudl has recently taken Ohio by storm. Video is instantly available to the colleges. Players can make their own highlight tapes, either during the season or after the season. I get video from players using Hudl all of the time, asking me either just to evaluate them or to promote them if I feel that they are good enough. Type in a player's name and his video is available on youtube. Cap City Preps, out of Columbus does a nice job with video. Scouting Ohio has more players than anyone on their site.
A recruiting service sent me an email last week reqesting my list of the Ohio players in the Class of 2013. Are you kiddin me!!! They charge kids alot of money. A few years ago, a recruitng company near Cleveland me wanted to work for them. Their fee began at 600 dollars and ended at 2,000 dollars. Began at 600 dollars! I told him that I was not qualified. He "ripped" me. Of course that hurt me for about thirty seconds. That company, by the way, is now "bottoms-up.
Marketing. If you are good enough, college coaches will find you. If you go to one day camps, college coaches will find you. If you play your "butt" off, college coaches will find you. If your high school coach works hard to promote you, colleges will find you. If you attend good creditable football combines, college coaches will find you.
Game day visits. Somewhere on this site there is an article about game day visits. I would add this advice to that article. When the college coach is talking to you, look him in the eyes and listen to what he says. Analyze him. Game day visits are two fold. One - You get a chance to see the campus and the game day environment. You get to go home and tell your friends about the trip. Parents can boast about (let's use Ohio State) invited "him to game day." Last year, a dad told me his soon was invited to four OSU games. The player ended up going to a D-III school. Two - College coaches get to "eyeball" you and chat with you.
Handlers. Three different men have talked with me recently. They intorduce themselves and, eventually, get to the point of telling me they are working this player to get him more exposure. They are trying to get colleges to take notice to of him. Two guys who I know fairly well have learned some of the inside working with their own sons to get exposure for other players. Self-annointed handlers. I wonder where money comes into play. I hope that the inflated ego is what it is about, instead of money.
With the growth of recruiting internet media, I realize times are changing. Be careful. One thing has not changed over the years. I was the youngest little league baseball head coach ever in Upper Sandusky. I began coaching in 1969. I was a head coach at 24. I was a D-III assistant for one year and went to being a head football coach in high school. I was a high school track official for 15 years. I spent 31 years in the academic classroom. In all of those years of working with kids, one thing has not changed --- Parents will hear what they want to hear. If you do not tell them what they want to hear, they will find somebody to tell them what they want to hear. If that somebody does not tell them what they want to hear, they will go until somebody says the right thing. For many parents, that scene never changes over the years.
I have a deep appreciation for high school football coaches. Their jobs get tougher and tougher. And, you know, the Vanlue's of Ohio have the same problems as the Massillon's and the McKinley's. Just not as many. Marketing is a crucial part of being a head football coach.
One final note. Not trying to crack on parents at all. This past week a parent from a smaller school football program told me his son ran a 4.5/forty. Warn you, I have seen his son run. My question to him was- Does that mean your son could run away from Colerain defenders? Good guy, but I am sure he is looking for the next "somebody."
Off to C-bus to see Marion Franklin - Walnut Ridge.
After this coach told me that, I just shook my head. His answer, "I guess it is all about marketing." Why would a head football coach allow this to happen? Do you think Chuck Kyle, Steve Specht, Mike Mauk, or Tom Bolden would let this happen. Regardless of the success of the program, this is silly. No - do not tell me about marketing. I deal with colleges all over the country. They know about the kids in Ohio.
Hudl has recently taken Ohio by storm. Video is instantly available to the colleges. Players can make their own highlight tapes, either during the season or after the season. I get video from players using Hudl all of the time, asking me either just to evaluate them or to promote them if I feel that they are good enough. Type in a player's name and his video is available on youtube. Cap City Preps, out of Columbus does a nice job with video. Scouting Ohio has more players than anyone on their site.
A recruiting service sent me an email last week reqesting my list of the Ohio players in the Class of 2013. Are you kiddin me!!! They charge kids alot of money. A few years ago, a recruitng company near Cleveland me wanted to work for them. Their fee began at 600 dollars and ended at 2,000 dollars. Began at 600 dollars! I told him that I was not qualified. He "ripped" me. Of course that hurt me for about thirty seconds. That company, by the way, is now "bottoms-up.
Marketing. If you are good enough, college coaches will find you. If you go to one day camps, college coaches will find you. If you play your "butt" off, college coaches will find you. If your high school coach works hard to promote you, colleges will find you. If you attend good creditable football combines, college coaches will find you.
Game day visits. Somewhere on this site there is an article about game day visits. I would add this advice to that article. When the college coach is talking to you, look him in the eyes and listen to what he says. Analyze him. Game day visits are two fold. One - You get a chance to see the campus and the game day environment. You get to go home and tell your friends about the trip. Parents can boast about (let's use Ohio State) invited "him to game day." Last year, a dad told me his soon was invited to four OSU games. The player ended up going to a D-III school. Two - College coaches get to "eyeball" you and chat with you.
Handlers. Three different men have talked with me recently. They intorduce themselves and, eventually, get to the point of telling me they are working this player to get him more exposure. They are trying to get colleges to take notice to of him. Two guys who I know fairly well have learned some of the inside working with their own sons to get exposure for other players. Self-annointed handlers. I wonder where money comes into play. I hope that the inflated ego is what it is about, instead of money.
With the growth of recruiting internet media, I realize times are changing. Be careful. One thing has not changed over the years. I was the youngest little league baseball head coach ever in Upper Sandusky. I began coaching in 1969. I was a head coach at 24. I was a D-III assistant for one year and went to being a head football coach in high school. I was a high school track official for 15 years. I spent 31 years in the academic classroom. In all of those years of working with kids, one thing has not changed --- Parents will hear what they want to hear. If you do not tell them what they want to hear, they will find somebody to tell them what they want to hear. If that somebody does not tell them what they want to hear, they will go until somebody says the right thing. For many parents, that scene never changes over the years.
I have a deep appreciation for high school football coaches. Their jobs get tougher and tougher. And, you know, the Vanlue's of Ohio have the same problems as the Massillon's and the McKinley's. Just not as many. Marketing is a crucial part of being a head football coach.
One final note. Not trying to crack on parents at all. This past week a parent from a smaller school football program told me his son ran a 4.5/forty. Warn you, I have seen his son run. My question to him was- Does that mean your son could run away from Colerain defenders? Good guy, but I am sure he is looking for the next "somebody."
Off to C-bus to see Marion Franklin - Walnut Ridge.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Elyria Catholic QB Jeremy Holley Done for Season
Last week as I was making out my travel plans for the next three weeks, I told one on my coaching friends in Lorain County that I needed to see Eyria Catholic play. Told him that I liked their big tackle, Dakota Tallman, and their quarterback, Jeremy Holley. Right away, he told me that Holley broke a lower leg bone during game four.
Jeremy and I have a long history, and I feel really bad for him. Coming out of his freshman year, I watched him at the Gary Stevens QB Camp at Lakewood St Ed's that summer. QB coaches were everywhere yelling and trying to correct kids of all ages on the passing mechanics. After watching Jeremy throw ball after ball for twenty minutes, he still could not throw a spiral, or spin-it. Standing 6'3, he moved his feet okay, but could not throw a spiral. Anytime I see a 6'3 QB, I watch him closely.
Finally, I just mumbled to him some things on which he could work. Not being an instructor, I tried to stay out of the way. The main point I told him was simple. "On your follow thru, your right thumb should come to the inside of your right thigh, or really close. Make it natural." Just watch Tom Brady.
Anyway, long story short, after some work, Jeremy could spin-it. He completed some passes in some 7on7 competition. Trust me, I am no great QB guru, but sometimes a simple coaching point can do a lot. The suggestion worked for Jeremy. Anytime you see a 6'3 freshman QB, make sure he throw a spiral. (Honestly, I never cared for Gary Stevens.)
Jeremy broke his lower leg bone during game four. Actually he was able to walk off of the field. He told me he felt something happen after a defensive man tackled him. Using crutches now, he does not know when the cast will be removed. Then rehab and see what happens. Football is over for this season, but basketball season is around the corner. Last year, he averaged 17.2 ppg and 11 rebounds per game. Of course, alot of rehab time in between.
Elyria Catholic went into the game 2-1, and actually won the game to go to 3-1. In Jeremy's four game season, he threw 10 TD passes, rushed for 1, and threw for 880 yards.
In this evaluating of high school football players business, you tend to get to know some of the players personally. I do not know Jeremy Holley really well, but I feel for him. But I also feel with some hard work and dedication in the off season, he should be fine. Sure hope that he will be able to still "spin-it."
Jeremy and I have a long history, and I feel really bad for him. Coming out of his freshman year, I watched him at the Gary Stevens QB Camp at Lakewood St Ed's that summer. QB coaches were everywhere yelling and trying to correct kids of all ages on the passing mechanics. After watching Jeremy throw ball after ball for twenty minutes, he still could not throw a spiral, or spin-it. Standing 6'3, he moved his feet okay, but could not throw a spiral. Anytime I see a 6'3 QB, I watch him closely.
Finally, I just mumbled to him some things on which he could work. Not being an instructor, I tried to stay out of the way. The main point I told him was simple. "On your follow thru, your right thumb should come to the inside of your right thigh, or really close. Make it natural." Just watch Tom Brady.
Anyway, long story short, after some work, Jeremy could spin-it. He completed some passes in some 7on7 competition. Trust me, I am no great QB guru, but sometimes a simple coaching point can do a lot. The suggestion worked for Jeremy. Anytime you see a 6'3 freshman QB, make sure he throw a spiral. (Honestly, I never cared for Gary Stevens.)
Jeremy broke his lower leg bone during game four. Actually he was able to walk off of the field. He told me he felt something happen after a defensive man tackled him. Using crutches now, he does not know when the cast will be removed. Then rehab and see what happens. Football is over for this season, but basketball season is around the corner. Last year, he averaged 17.2 ppg and 11 rebounds per game. Of course, alot of rehab time in between.
Elyria Catholic went into the game 2-1, and actually won the game to go to 3-1. In Jeremy's four game season, he threw 10 TD passes, rushed for 1, and threw for 880 yards.
In this evaluating of high school football players business, you tend to get to know some of the players personally. I do not know Jeremy Holley really well, but I feel for him. But I also feel with some hard work and dedication in the off season, he should be fine. Sure hope that he will be able to still "spin-it."
No Wooden Bleachers in Southern Ohio
As I had mentioned a couple of weeks ago, I had not been to southern Ohio for sometime. Last trip was to Portsmouth five years ago. Recently, I watched Jackson High School and last week, I traveled to Portsmouth and then to Minford High School. Both schools were subjects mentioned in my blogs. For what it means coming from me, but I was really impressed with the "whole picture" of the schools that I visited.
Portsmouth's athletic complex is really top shelf. Turf, plenty of seating, and easy to get to where I want to go. Minford's football field has plenty of seating. No turf, but the grass is really taken care of by the athletic staff. I am making this, because all that I could think of was wooden bleachers, maxing out about fifteen feet high. Also thought the field would be rough and the grass would be high or no grass at all. Nothing could be farther from the truth.
Every game that I have attended is the "only game in town." Tremendous small town environment. Local graduates who have played the game and can make the right call everytime are along the ropes. Good bands-lots of noise. Players play hard. Just like in the rural communties in Northwest Ohio, not a a bunch of Division I college prospects, but alot of really good high school players, including D-II and D-III propects.
You have to realize that John McCallister is no "big time guy," being sarcastic about southern Ohio football. After all, growing up in Upper Sandusky is not quite on par with growing up in Upper Arlington. I have a huge respect for small town life and for small town football. Kenton, Ohio plays pretty good football and is one of those small towns in Northwest. Northeast football programs are familiar with names like Coldwater and Marion Local.
I just want the fans in Minford to know that I now know where Minford is and that I really enjoyed watching the second half last week.
Portsmouth's athletic complex is really top shelf. Turf, plenty of seating, and easy to get to where I want to go. Minford's football field has plenty of seating. No turf, but the grass is really taken care of by the athletic staff. I am making this, because all that I could think of was wooden bleachers, maxing out about fifteen feet high. Also thought the field would be rough and the grass would be high or no grass at all. Nothing could be farther from the truth.
Every game that I have attended is the "only game in town." Tremendous small town environment. Local graduates who have played the game and can make the right call everytime are along the ropes. Good bands-lots of noise. Players play hard. Just like in the rural communties in Northwest Ohio, not a a bunch of Division I college prospects, but alot of really good high school players, including D-II and D-III propects.
You have to realize that John McCallister is no "big time guy," being sarcastic about southern Ohio football. After all, growing up in Upper Sandusky is not quite on par with growing up in Upper Arlington. I have a huge respect for small town life and for small town football. Kenton, Ohio plays pretty good football and is one of those small towns in Northwest. Northeast football programs are familiar with names like Coldwater and Marion Local.
I just want the fans in Minford to know that I now know where Minford is and that I really enjoyed watching the second half last week.
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