Today in the Award Winner series of the Coach and Coordinator podcast, Keith Grabowski is joined by coach Marcus Hilliard. Hilliard serves as assistant coach and defensive coordinator and was awarded AFCA assistant coach of the year. Hilliard discusses his journey, what qualities an assistant should have and Virginia Union’s defensive line.

Following coach Hilliard, Keith Grabowski interacts with coaches in a “Your Call” segment. This segment is meant to share ideas from coaches for coaches through frequently asked questions and help the coaching community enhance the experience for their players. This segment we ae introduced to the “L.E.A.P Awards” from coach Alfredo Siva, head coach of Bolsa Grande high school.

01:00 Coach Hilliard’s start in coaching

03:00 Qualities that got coach Hilliard recognized

04:55 Being a self-starter

06:10 Pillars of Virginia Union

07:50 Importance of giving back

09:17 Best ways of teaching the defense

10:35 Coach Hilliard’s favorite defensive schemes

11:55 Key coaching points coaching line movement

13:20 Best way to start the RPO

14:40 How to maintain the pace with players

16:05 Finding the advantage against offensive linemen

18:00 What is taught to the Virginia Union defensive linemen

20:22 Grading guys on film

21:50 Winning edge

23:00 Connect with coach:

@vuusports

Your Call: L.E.A.P Awards

24:55 L.E.A.P

Leadership

Effort

Attitude

Preparation

25:30 L.E.A.P evaluation

26:20 Award criteria

27:55 Checking in with the coaches

28:35 Giving the kids something tangible

29:18 L.E.A.P during the season

32:55 L.E.A.P in post season awards

34:15 How is decided?

35:10 Connect with coach:

@fbcoachsilva

@Bolsafootball

Bolsafootball.com