FCA North Georgia Coaches Show

• My Country 993 WCON - The Music That Made Country Great

• Fellowship of Christian Athletes North Georgia – Learn more about the mission and events of FCA in North Georgia.

• Longstreet Cafe

Coach Segment: Michael Davis – Hebron Christian Offensive Coordinator

Coach Michael Davis brings a rare blend of football excellence, deep faith, and contagious passion to Hebron Christian Academy. After more than three decades in public school football—including a celebrated run at Rabun County—Davis stepped into Hebron's program and immediately embraced its mission of developing young men both on and off the field.

Episode Summary In this episode of the FCA North Georgia Coaches Show, Joel Williams and Clint Fair sit down with Hebron Christian offensive coordinator Michael Davis to talk about faith-driven football from the ground up. Coach Davis shares how Hebron develops athletes starting as early as flag football, the unique advantages of a Christ-centered private school, and the profound impact of weekly chapel, FCA-style "7:25" devotions, and even post-practice baptisms on campus. He reflects on his years at Rabun County coaching current UGA quarterback Gunner Stockton, describes life and friendly chaos inside the ultra-competitive Lamb/Davis family, and explains how high school sports can be a vehicle for education, discipleship, and life change.

• My Country 993 WCON - The Music That Made Country Great

• Fellowship of Christian Athletes North Georgia – Learn more about the mission and events of FCA in North Georgia.

• Longstreet Cafe

Coach Joel Lulinski is the head coach of the Lanier Lightning at Lanier Christian Academy. With a background in working at children's homes for 12 years, Joel transitioned into coaching and teaching at Lanier Christian Academy. He has coached under notable mentors like Blake Anderson and Bruce Miller and has led his team to compete at high levels of state championships in the GAPS association.

In this engaging episode of the FCA North Georgia Coaches Podcast, Joel Williams and Clint Fair sit down with Coach Joel Lulinski from Lanier Christian Academy to discuss his journey from working in children's homes to leading a high school football team to a state championship. The conversation, recorded live from Longstreet Café in Gainesville, Georgia, explores the highs and challenges of coaching football at a small faith-based school where roster sizes and community engagement play pivotal roles in the academy's sports program.

Coach Joel Lulinski shares his unique insights into the workings of a small Christian school where sports are intertwined with faith, and every student is encouraged to participate in athletics. Highlighting an impressive statistic with 80% of Lanier Christian Academy's student body participating in sports, Coach Lulinski emphasizes the critical role of leadership and teamwork on and off the field. The episode also delves deep into the evolving dynamics of high school sports, the importance of maintaining core values through success, and the strategic thinking involved in nurturing a young, vibrant team amidst challenges like limited player numbers and injuries.

• Coach Joel Lulinski's journey from children's home work to coaching football at Lanier Christian Academy emphasizes the integration of faith and sports.

• Lanier Christian Academy boasts a unique model where 80% of students engage in sports, necessitating shared athletes between different sports seasons.

• Lulinski's coaching philosophy centers on making each player a leader, facilitating a culture of accountability and growth within the team.

• Despite the challenges of managing a small squad of 27 players, the team thrives through strategic player positioning and resilience.

• Commitment to Christ-centered values remains paramount for Lulinski and his coaching staff, even amidst the pressures of athletic success.

• My Country 993 WCON - The Music That Made Country Great

• Fellowship of Christian Athletes North Georgia – Learn more about the mission and events of FCA in North Georgia.

• Longstreet Cafe

Kory Mobbs

Kory Mobbs is the Head Football Coach of the Jackson County Panthers, guiding the team to success in high school football. With a storied coaching career beginning at Collins Hill High School and flourishing at Lanier High School where he served as head coach for seven years, Coach Mobbs brought his expertise to Jackson County to inspire change and elevate the program. Recognized for his strategic insight and commitment to building men through football, he remains a passionate leader and community advocate.

Ben Hildebrandt

Ben Hildebrandt serves as the Director of North Georgia Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) for Jackson and Banks Counties. With a background that includes seven years of dedicated service to FCA, Ben is committed to nurturing the spiritual and character development of student-athletes across multiple schools. His leadership facilitates numerous huddles and events that foster faith, integrity, and unity within the community.

Join host Joel Williams as he delves into a captivating conversation with Kory Mobbs, Head Football Coach of the Jackson County Panthers, and Ben Hildebrandt from North Georgia FCA in this episode of the FCA North Georgia Coaches Podcast. Set against the backdrop of Longstreet Cafe, the dialogue highlights enriching themes of community, coaching philosophy, and the intersection of faith and athletics.

Coach Kory Mobbs discusses his journey navigating the challenges and triumphs of leading the Jackson County Panthers to an impressive season, underscoring the impact of high school football as a "builder of men." With a nuanced understanding of both the strategic and cultural aspects of coaching, Mobbs reflects on creating a nurturing environment where both athletes and the wider community thrive. His heartfelt insights into the resilience of players, the importance of leadership, and the anticipation surrounding football reclassification are central to this engaging discussion.

Meanwhile, Ben Hildebrandt speaks passionately about the pivotal role of FCA in local schools, emphasizing the organization's enduring influence on students and staff. Highlighting the importance of genuine connections and a burgeoning sense of purpose among the youth, Hildebrandt articulates how FCA events foster a thriving spiritual community. The conversation concludes with a compelling reflection on maintaining momentum in the face of societal changes, urging listeners to recognize and support the transformative power of sports and faith.

• Coach Mobbs underscores football as a "great builder of men," emphasizing its role in personal growth and community strength.

• Facing school reclassification, Mobbs shares insights on the balance between preserving tradition and embracing competitive challenges.

• Ben Hildebrandt highlights the significance of FCA's influence in nurturing faith and integrity within student-athletes.

• Both guests emphasize the essential role of community in creating an enriching and supportive environment for youth development.

• The discussion touches on the evolving nature of high school sports, exploring possibilities for sustained growth and improvement.

1. "Football is a great builder of men, and I truly believe in the power it has to influence young lives." – Kory Mobbs

2. "Our entire community is moving in the right direction, with everyone pulling together and making great things happen." – Kory Mobbs

3. "There's an energy in the community right now, and we're seeing a lot of success across various sports." – Ben Hildebrandt

4. "Today's generation is hungry for truth and ready to see real change in their communities." – Ben Hildebrandt

5. "Building a community that people want to be p

• My Country 993 WCON - The Music That Made Country Great

• Fellowship of Christian Athletes North Georgia – Learn more about the mission and events of FCA in North Georgia.

• Longstreet Cafe

Josh Niblett Josh Niblett is the Head Football Coach of the Gainesville High Red Elephants. With a rich history in coaching, Niblett has made significant strides in developing successful football programs. His leadership and innovative coaching strategies took form over an illustrious tenure at Hoover High School, where he clinched several state titles and cemented his legacy. Renowned for his dedication to fostering a positive culture and emphasizing character development alongside athletic prowess, Niblett continues to inspire both players and the community through his resilient and faith-driven coaching style.

In this engaging episode of the FCA North Georgia Coaches Show, Joel Williams and Clint Fair have an in-depth conversation with Josh Niblett, Gainesville High's Head Football Coach. Hosting from Longstreet Cafe, Niblett shares his insights on coaching, creating a winning culture, and his spiritual journey that intertwines with football. The discussion explores the competitive season the Gainesville Red Elephants have had, the challenges faced, and the continued pursuit of excellence both on and off the field.

The conversation delves into Team Culture and Values, unpacking Niblett's emphasis on character, integrity, and choosing the hard path to achieve greatness. Niblett highlights how the values of choosing hard, embracing the truth, and looking beyond personal gain define the Gainesville culture. The episode also covers pivotal moments from his coaching career, his transition to Gainesville, the role of his family, and his perspective on leadership and life. Through notable quotes and takeaways, listeners gain valuable insights into effective coaching and personal growth, garnished with a rich tapestry of personal anecdotes and professional wisdom.

• Building a Winning Culture: Niblett emphasizes the significance of setting standards and expectations that transcend the football field to encompass all aspects of life.

• Spiritual and Motivational Leadership: Coach Niblett views his career as a ministry, utilizing his position to inspire players towards spiritual growth and personal development.

• Fostering Integrity and Accountability: The importance of maintaining integrity and accountability, both on and off the field, is central to Niblett's coaching philosophy.

• Emphasis on Team Values: 'Choose Hard,' 'High Truths,' and 'G+Me' are shared as core values essential in cultivating a cohesive and successful team environment.

• Impactful Coaching and Influences: Niblett's account of how family, particularly his mother's guidance, plays a crucial role in his decision-making process and outlook on challenges.

• My Country 993 WCON - The Music That Made Country Great

• Fellowship of Christian Athletes North Georgia – Learn more about the mission and events of FCA in North Georgia.

• Longstreet Cafe

Chuck Holland is the head coach of the Franklin County Lions football team. Raised in Franklin County, Livonia, Georgia, Chuck comes from a sports-oriented family, with his father having played basketball at the University of Georgia. After a journey that included playing football at Western Carolina and finding his faith at the University of Georgia, Chuck transitioned into youth ministry for six years. He eventually brought his passion for impacting young people to the education field, teaching and coaching a variety of sports. In his third year as head coach of the Franklin County Lions, Chuck emphasizes character building and the holistic development of his players, both on and off the field.

Join hosts Joel Williams and Clint Fair in an engaging dialogue with Coach Chuck Holland on the FCA North Georgia Coaches Podcast. Recorded live at Longstreet Cafe, this episode delves into the role of faith, family, and sports in education today. From Chuck's early days learning the ropes in youth ministry to his impactful tenure as the head coach of the Franklin County Lions, discover how he balances his love for Jesus, family, and football. As Chuck reflects on an outstanding year in 2025 for his team, the conversation shifts to the intricacies of molding young men through sports, buoyed by an evolving yet consistent faith journey.

Explore the vibrant culture of small-town high school sports and the dynamic challenges coaches face. Chuck Holland shares his strategic approach to blending traditional sports with a forward-thinking mindset, highlighting the unique culture in Carnesville and the bonds formed over years in the community. Discover how Chuck navigates the increasingly competitive and demanding world of high school football while staying true to his mission of enriching young lives through coaching. This episode offers a peek behind the scenes of high school coaching, filled with inspirational insights and professional anecdotes tailored to resonate with educators, coaches, and sports enthusiasts alike.

• Faith-Driven Coaching: Chuck Holland emphasizes the importance of faith in his coaching methodology, focusing on character development and spiritual growth alongside athletic success.

• Community and Cultural Building: Leveraging a cohesive community environment, Franklin County's single high school benefits from strong local support and a family-like atmosphere.

• Relationships in Coaching: Emphasized the role of building relationships with players and staff as a critical factor in fostering a successful team dynamic around commitment, accountability, and brotherhood.

• Adapting to Challenges: Chuck discusses the evolution of high school sports, noting the challenges in attracting athletes to football compared to other, less demanding sports.

• Personal and Professional Growth: Highlighting his journey from youth ministry to head coach, Chuck's story is one of perseverance, patience, and the transformative power of sports as a ministry tool.

1. "Football is a small part of the big picture, and we try to use football to turn boys into young men."

2. "What I learned in youth ministry for those six years prepared me for just about everything I faced as a coach."

3. "Many are the plans of a man's heart, but it's the Lord's purpose that will prevail."

4. "When looking at culture piece, it's huge... community support is amazing in Franklin county."

5. "We're here to impact the young men... coaching is more a mission field to raise them.

• My Country 993 WCON - The Music That Made Country Great

• Fellowship of Christian Athletes North Georgia – Learn more about the mission and events of FCA in North Georgia.

• Longstreet Cafe

Coach Heath Webb Coach Heath Webb is the head football coach of the Lumpkin County Indians. With a career spanning multiple schools, Coach Webb has gained a reputation for revitalizing football programs and engaging communities with his coaching style. Under his leadership, Lumpkin County has seen significant success, reflected in Coach Webb's recent achievement as the winningest coach in the school's history. His approach emphasizes the fit within the community, player involvement, and integrating faith into sports.

Join hosts Joel Williams and Clint Fair as they welcome Coach Heath Webb of Lumpkin County High School to the FCA North Georgia Coaches Show, set against the backdrop of Longstreet Cafe. This episode dives into Coach Webb's journey to becoming the winningest coach in Lumpkin County history, exploring his methods for fostering community involvement and building a successful football program. Listen in as the trio discusses the role of faith through Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), community spirit, and the journey from being a football player to a coach.

Coach Webb shares insightful stories of his tenure at various schools, highlighting the importance of community fit and the impact of strong mentorship on his career. The episode touches on the role of faith and community in high school sports, with Coach Webb celebrating the unique support Lumpkin County receives from local churches that provide pregame meals and devotions. As the conversation unfolds, key themes such as the significance of community, the evolution of football coaching, and the role of faith and mentorship in sports are explored, offering a deep dive into the world of high school sports coaching.

• Community Engagement: Coach Webb highlights the vital role of community support, emphasizing how local churches and fans rally around Lumpkin County sports, leading to a unique high school sports environment.

• Faith and Sports Integration: The episode discusses how faith plays a crucial role in the team's culture, with churches providing weekly devotions and meals, underscoring the FCA's influence.

• Coaching Journey: Webb's career path and success demonstrate the importance of finding the right fit in a community and how that alignment can influence a program's success.

• Mentorship and Development: The discussion reinforces the impact of mentors like Arnold Meeks on Coach Webb's career, showcasing how effective mentorship can shape coaching methodologies.

• Player-Coach Dynamics: The episode sheds light on how communication styles with players have evolved over the years and the importance of adapting to modern communication methods to engage effectively with athletes.

1. "We want for nothing. We get everything that we need. Our community shows up every Friday night." – Coach Heath Webb

2. "It's not he said himself. You know, I didn't come to be served, but to serve and to see that played out in the community with those local churches, that's a special thing." – Clint Fair

3. "When I show up at the Pearly Gates, he's not going to ask me how many games I won." – Coach Heath Webb

4. "At the end of the day, our purpose is really our stewardship of our influence." – Clint Fair

5. "I learned a lot from him that way. And through the course of that, he was making me a better person." – Coach Heath Webb, referring to Coach Arnold Meeks

• My Country 993 WCON - The Music That Made Country Great

• Fellowship of Christian Athletes North Georgia – Learn more about the mission and events of FCA in North Georgia.

• Longstreet Cafe

Sean Pender is the Head Coach of the North Hall Trojans, bringing with him years of experience in high school football coaching. He began his head coaching career at the age of 27 in Brantley County, Georgia. Over the years, he has developed a reputation for inspiring and effectively leading young athletes, focusing not only on their athletic abilities but also on their personal growth and community engagement.

In this episode of the FCA North Georgia Coaches Podcast, host Joel Williams and Clint Fair dive deep into the heart of high school football with Coach Sean Pender of the North Hall Trojans. Broadcasted from Longstreet Cafe in Gainesville, the episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the dynamics of high school sports, the community's role in education, and a coach's vision for the future. The conversation branches into Coach Pender's experiences and his philosophy on coaching as a means of life preparation.

Coach Pender reflects on the current structure of high school football, discussing the nuances of a long-season schedule and the importance of multi-sport participation among athletes. The conversation touches on Georgia's prominent position in the national high school football landscape. Notably, Pender emphasizes a transparent coaching philosophy, community support, and the necessity of balancing player development with academic and extracurricular success. Through their in-depth dialogue, the podcast provides insights into the North Hall community's avid support and how such involvement contributes to the success of various school programs.

• High school football should incorporate teaching life lessons, focusing on development both on and off the field.

• The balance between sports participation and educational attainment is crucial for well-rounded student-athletes.

• Community support, including from local churches and families, significantly enhances the high school sports experience.

• Embracing multi-sport participation helps foster diverse skills and resilience among athletes.

• The profession of coaching is likened to a service industry, emphasizing the importance of teaching and guiding young athletes.

• "In high school, I really feel that you should try to get your players to play as many sports as possible and get them to do all that stuff."

• "When you look at the athletes that play football, for the most part, you look at the makeup of them in your student body and what they represent that, the type of attitude they can control and do."

• "We're in a service business. As teachers, we're there to serve."

• "Where there's no vision, the people will perish."

• "Have fun, that's what we do and you know, we talk about one of o

• My Country 993 WCON - The Music That Made Country Great

• Fellowship of Christian Athletes North Georgia – Learn more about the mission and events of FCA in North Georgia.

• Longstreet Cafe

Chad Bennett is the head coach of the White County Warriors football team. With a rich coaching history, Chad began his career in 2004 at Flowery Branch, coaching at Davis Middle School before moving to Flowery Branch High School's varsity team. He later served as offensive coordinator and assistant head coach at Rabun County and returned to Flowery Branch before assuming the head coaching role at White County. His coaching philosophy emphasizes building relationships and developing young athletes both on and off the field.

In this engaging episode of the FCA North Georgia Coaches Podcast, hosts My Country 99.3 WCON's Joel Williams and North Georgia's FCA's Clint Ferris sit down with Chad Bennett, head coach of the White County Warriors, to delve into the essence of coaching high school football. Broadcasting from the vibrant atmosphere of Longstreet Cafe, Gainesville, the discussion highlights the importance of cultivating relationships in coaching and the profound impact of football as a tool for teaching life lessons. With Clint's perspective, particularly his involvement with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), the narrative strongly underscores the spiritual and character-building aspects of being a coach.

Chad Bennett shares his journey through various coaching roles, illustrating the lessons learned along the way. As the conversation unfolds, Chad discusses his methodologies in mentoring young athletes, stressing the crucial role of patience, resilience, and community support—essential values that align closely with FCA's mission. This episode is a must-listen for those interested in the transformational power of high school sports and its capacity to prepare young men for future challenges by fostering both personal and team growth, presenting a balanced view on the intricate layers of coaching, beyond just the wins and losses.

• Transformative Coaching: Chad Bennett emphasizes the need for coaches to act as mentors, guiding young athletes through personal and professional development.

• Building Relationships: A key component of Chad's coaching philosophy is developing strong, supportive relationships with players to positively impact their performance on and off the field.

• Facing Adversity: Discussing the current 0-6 season, Chad highlights the importance of resilience and the lessons learned through facing challenges head-on.

• Faith and Lead: Clint Ferris emphasizes the integration of Christian values with sports to build character, leveraging biblical teachings to instill resilience in athletes.

• Community Support: The discussion highlights the indispensable role that supportive communities play in nurturing high school sports programs.

• "I love helping young men not only in the game of football, but, you know, football teaches life." - Chad Bennett

• "Football is the greatest team sport there is. I mean, it teaches you life, you know, life is hard." - Chad Bennett

• "Our job is to help build and raise men." - Chad Bennett

• "When you keep pouring in and keep doing it, we will see the fruits of our labor." - Chad Bennett

• "I don't feel like I've worked today in 22 years. It's just really what you want to do is what you do." - Chad Bennett

• My Country 993 WCON - The Music That Made Country Great

• Fellowship of Christian Athletes North Georgia – Learn more about the mission and events of FCA in North Georgia.

• Longstreet Cafe

Michael Perry is the Head Coach of the Flowery Branch Falcons, now in his first year with the team. A Gainesville High School alum, Perry boasts an extensive coaching background, having previously worked at Union County, Coffee Douglas, Centennial High School, and East Hall. His wealth of experience includes coaching under Bruce Miller from 2006 to 2015, contributing to Gainesville's 2012 state championship. Michael Perry is known for his ability to connect with players and foster a winning team culture.

In this engaging episode of the FCA North Georgia Coaches Show, host Joel Williams is joined by Clint Fair, as they welcome Michael Perry, the head coach of the Flowery Branch Falcons. Recorded live at Longstreet Cafe's Riverside Terrace, this episode dives into Michael Perry's journey in high school football coaching, highlighting the immense dedication and passion behind the sport. Despite being his first year at Flowery Branch, Coach Perry has successfully led his team to a promising start, thanks to the strong buy-in from senior players and exceptional assistant coaches.

Throughout the discussion, key themes include the current landscape of high school football, with topics like recruitment, maintaining student engagement, and the importance of community support. Coach Perry also delves into the challenges of modern coaching, touching on balancing rigorous practice schedules and fostering a supportive, fun environment for players. Furthermore, audience learn about the influence of family, faith, and tradition in creating a cohesive team atmosphere. This episode is teeming with insights and personal anecdotes, making it a must-listen for sports enthusiasts and aspiring coaches alike.

• Recruitment & Team Dynamics: Coach Perry emphasizes the significance of making the game fun and engaging to maintain student interest amidst the various options available today.

• Coaching Philosophy: Balancing effective training with positive, meaningful interactions is crucial in today's high school sports environment.

• Community & Faith: Emphasizing community involvement and integrating faith-based activities can enhance team culture and unity.

• Balancing Tradition and Innovation: Recognizing and preserving past successes while being open to new ideas is vital in managing a high school sports program successfully.

• Family Influence: Personal anecdotes reveal how family values influence coaching style and the importance of maintaining work-life balance in high-intensity roles.

1. "You never see a team win a championship without having, like, extremely great players." — Michael Perry

2. "I always tell every assistant coach I've ever hired... you'll never have a divorce because of me." — Michael Perry

3. "It was not the Super Bowl. The season continues." — Michael Perry

4. "No matter what happens Friday, we shake hands with opponents and our players go straight to the band with the cheerleaders, and they sing the alma mater song." — Michael Perry

• My Country 993 WCON - The Music That Made Country Great

• Fellowship of Christian Athletes North Georgia – Learn more about the mission and events of FCA in North Georgia.

• Longstreet Cafe

Travis Nolan is the esteemed Head Football Coach of the Jefferson Dragons in Georgia. With a coaching career spanning over three decades, Nolan has cultivated a reputation for excellence and leadership in high school football. Originally hailing from western North Carolina, he played college football at Appalachian State before dedicating himself to coaching at the high school level. Coach Nolan has a rich history of coaching success in North Carolina and Georgia, including significant tenures at Stevens County and Oconee County before his current position at Jefferson.

In this engaging episode of the FCA North Georgia Coaches Podcast, hosted at Longstreet Cafe, Travis Nolan, the Head Coach of the Jefferson Dragons, offers a deep dive into the life of a dedicated high school football coach. Joel Williams and Clint Fair introduce Coach Nolan, who discusses his journey from a young athlete in Western North Carolina to a respected coach in Georgia. Nolan shares valuable insights into his coaching philosophy, the importance of maintaining an even keel, and his commitment to fostering a positive environment for his players.

Throughout the conversation, Coach Nolan reflects on the influences that shaped his career, emphasizing the role of mentors like Hall of Fame coach Jerry Moore at Appalachian State. He articulates the impactful role coaches play in athletes' lives and highlights the balance needed between professional demands and personal life, especially throughout his extensive coaching career. The discussion also touches on broader themes in high school sports, such as the pressures on coaches, the evolving landscape of competitive athletics, and Nolan's commitment to personal development and community contributions.

• Coaching Philosophy: Coach Nolan maintains an "even keel" approach, believing in consistency and modeling the behavior he desires in his players.
• Influence of Mentors: The significant impact mentors like Jerry Moore have had on his career and personal development.
• Balancing Life and Coaching: Highlights strategies for maintaining work-life balance, such as strategic scheduling and respecting coaches' personal time.
• Challenges in High School Sports: Discusses the pressures and potential changes in high school sports, emphasizing the need for respect and sportsmanship.
• Role of Community and Family: Nolan values the importance of family and community, striving to make decisions that are centered around student and community benefit.

• "I've never been too high, never been too low kind of guy."
• "Every young man that walks through those doors is somebody's son, and I've always wanted to be the kind of man that I would want coaching my son."
• "Coaching is not just about wins and losses; it's about how you do your business in that process."
• "I've always wanted to be a sheriff…if I wouldn't have been a coach, I would have gone into law enforcement."
• "I worry about the longevity of coaches more than I do about kids in the game of football because of the schedule."

• Jefferson Dragons Football: Jefferson High School Athletics
• Appalachian State University Athletics: Appalachian State Football
• Longstreet Cafe Locations: Find Out More
• Fellowship of Christian Athletes North Georgia: NGAFCA Website

Listeners are encouraged to delve into the full episode for more inspiring anecdotes and insights from Coach Nolan. Stay tuned for more enriching discussions with influential coaches and community leaders on the FCA North Georgia Coaches Podcast!