On today’s podcast, host Keith Grabowski is joined by Mike Cummings, Offensive Line Coach at Central Michigan. Cummings is entering his fourth season in his current position having come over from VMI. Coach has a variety of experience which includes additional stops at Marshall, Connecticut, Western Michigan and Eastern Michigan, to name a few.  Coach Cummings joins the podcast today for Part 1 of his talk about the Importance of Basics. 

1:40 Coach’s Journey
2:56 Takeaways that have helped shape coach
9:20 Understanding what motivates any given player
15:54 Process of building the offensive line
23:51 Helping players solve problems
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Importance of the Basics- Mike Cummings, Offensive Line Coach, Central Michigan

Keith Grabowski interviews the most knowledgeable head coaches, coordinators, and position coaches from professional, college, and high school football. Keith and his guests discuss the philosophy, concepts, schemes, and strategies that they have learned throughout their careers. Each show includes a specific idea that can be applied to help coaches at every level find the winning edge.

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Kileleni - To The Summit - Lou Holtz, Hall of Fame Coach

Patrick Steenberge, Founder and CEO of Global Football joins Coach and Coordinator to kick off the series Kileleni - To the Summit. 

Patrick did This podcast series on his own during the pandemic, and we are editing and republishing the episodes he did with football coaches as a series on Coach and Coordinator.

Keith and Patrick share the story of how they met, the genesis of Global Football, and the series' purpose before the interview with Coach Lou Holtz.

Join host Patrick Steenberge as he engages in a captivating conversation with legendary coach and broadcaster Lou Holtz. Together, they delve into topics such as the power of mentorship, setting meaningful goals, and cultivating passion and positivity. Lou Holtz shares valuable insights and anecdotes from his illustrious career, offering inspiration and wisdom for athletes, coaches, and listeners alike. Tune in to gain valuable perspectives and be motivated by the engaging discussion in this episode.

Show Notes:

The Meaning of Kilalini

Mission Behind Global Football

How to Learn More about Global Football

Conversation with Coach Lou Holtz

Achieving Greatness Through Passion

Memories of Japan Trip

Importance of Making People Feel Important

Winning Edge


Learn more about Global Football and how you can create an experience that will provide an impactful life experience for your football program.

https://www.globalfootball.com/

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An in-person local fundraising coach walks your team through every step of the process. 


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Kileleni - To the Summit - Lou Holtz, Hall of Fame Coach

In this episode, Josh Sabinas, defensive coordinator at Merrillville High School in Indiana, joins us to share his defensive strategies enhanced by analytics. We explore how coaches utilize data-driven insights to optimize their defensive game plans. We also discuss the impact of tackle-for-loss statistics, efficiency rates, and other key analytics on defensive performance, and learn how these insights influence coaching philosophies, game-planning strategies, and player development, ultimately shaping a more effective and competitive defense.

Show Notes:

Introduction to Defensive Analytics

Importance of Tackle for Loss in Defense

Impact of Tackle for Loss on Defensive Success

Correlation Between Tackles for Loss and Scoring

Analyzing Missed Tackles for Loss

Coaching Players on Tackling Techniques

Deep Dive into Defensive Analytics Data

Understanding Stop Rates and Tackle for Loss

Analyzing Potential Yardage Given Up

Implementing Analytics into Game Planning

Winning Edge


Follow Josh Sabinas on Twitter/X @_Coach_Sabinas_.
Email Coach Sabinas at jsabinas@mvsc.k12.in.us.

Thank you for supporting our partners:
Learn More about Modern Football Technology:
Battle-tested, Modern Football’s platform provides real-time self-scout and opponent tendencies, while eliminating manual tagging into HUDL, DV Sport, and XOS. Trusted by teams at every level, see how top coaches leverage this platform for in-game decision making and play-calling success. To book a demo, visit www.teammofo.com/demo. Mention Coach and Coordinator Podcast or use the coupon code CC10 when signing up for a demo to receive 10% off your first year.

Learn More about FirstDown Playbook:
FirstDown PlayBook is a coaching tool and program management system with over 35,000 customizable plays, defenses, and special teams schemes. With tools such as video pairing, practice schedules, wristband creation, practice scripts, scouting reports, and a player app, FirstDown PlayBook helps save time and organize your program all in one place. Schedule a 15-minute Zoom meeting with former NFL coach Charlie Coiner or call  (512) 814-6158 to receive a one-week free trial. Or use the coupon code COACH24 to receive a $100 discount on a team membership.

Learn More about Vertical Raise:
Vertical Raise is the premier online fundraising platform, using innovative technology to create the easiest and most efficient system available. Raise more money in less time, with a local fundraising coach who works with your team every step of the way to customize the ideal fundraiser. With options for online donations, digital discount cards, premium product sales, and even spirit shops, Vertical Raise has top-of-the-line solutions for every fundraising style. To find out more, visit VerticalRaise.com, and get connected with an exclusive offer on your first fundraiser.

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Building a Defense with Analytics – Josh Sabinas, Merrillville High School (IN)

In this segment from the Lauren’s First and Goal Spring Series, PJ Fleck focuses on personal and professional development. Coach Fleck outlines the philosophy behind his "Row the Boat" mantra that embodies resilience and unity and shapes the culture of the team. Coach Fleck also provides valuable perspectives on coaching, leadership, and personal growth through insight on navigating challenges, building a strong team culture, and continually striving for excellence.

Show Notes:

Row the Boat

The Power of the Oar in Life

Importance of Sacrifice in achieving Goals

Building Big Boats for Collective Success

The Significance of the Compass in Life Direction

Focus Areas for Aspiring Elite Coaches

Letting Go of Control for Professional Growth

Continuous Improvement and Personal Development

Winning Edge


Follow PJ Fleck on Twitter/X @Coach_Fleck.

Gain access to this full discussion and all the talks from the Lauren’s First and Goal Clinic, plus all Spring Series Sessions with Minnesota Head Coach PJ Fleck, Kansas Head Coach Lance Leipold, and Washington Commanders Head Coach Dan Quinn.
Lauren’s First and Goal Premium Memberships:
LFGF Premium Membership
LFGF Premium Staff Membership

Thank you for supporting our partners:
Learn More about Modern Football Technology:
Battle-tested, Modern Football’s platform provides real-time self-scout and opponent tendencies, while eliminating manual tagging into HUDL, DV Sport, and XOS. Trusted by teams at every level, see how top coaches leverage this platform for in-game decision making and play-calling success. To book a demo, visit www.teammofo.com/demo. Mention Coach and Coordinator Podcast or use the coupon code CC10 when signing up for a demo to receive 10% off your first year.

Learn More about FirstDown Playbook:
FirstDown PlayBook is a coaching tool and program management system with over 35,000 customizable plays, defenses, and special teams schemes. With tools such as video pairing, practice schedules, wristband creation, practice scripts, scouting reports, and a player app, FirstDown PlayBook helps save time and organize your program all in one place. Schedule a 15-minute Zoom meeting with former NFL coach Charlie Coiner or call  (512) 814-6158 to receive a one-week free trial. Or use the coupon code COACH24 to receive a $100 discount on a team membership.

Learn More about Vertical Raise:
Vertical Raise is the premier online fundraising platform, using innovative technology to create the easiest and most efficient system available. Raise more money in less time, with a local fundraising coach who works with your team every step of the way to customize the ideal fundraiser. With options for online donations, digital discount cards, premium product sales, and even spirit shops, Vertical Raise has top-of-the-line solutions for every fundraising style. To find out more, visit VerticalRaise.com, and get connected with an exclusive offer on your first fundraiser.

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Clinic Series: Personal and Professional Growth – PJ Fleck, Head Coach, Minnesota

In this Champions Series episode, presented by Signature Championship Rings, we talk with a seven-in-a-row state champion with a special focus on embracing the uniqueness of each team and season.
Steve Steele, head coach at Pierre Riggs High School in South Dakota, shares his wisdom and experiences from leading his team to seven consecutive state championships. We dig into the the key elements of success, the importance of team dynamics, and the journey of preparing for a new season with a fresh theme.

Show Notes:

Embracing Every Team and Year as Unique

Importance of Each Year's Differences

Non-Negotiables: TOTD and Family

Creativity in Team Training

Turn Off the Dark

Formulating the Unique Identity of Each Team

Story Behind the 2023 Team Identity

Translating Team Identity to Practice and Field

Adapting Coaching Style to Fit the Team's Needs

Celebrating the Team's Success Before Moving On

Opportunity at Tampa Bay Buccaneers Coaching Academy

Advice to Coaches Looking for Their First State Championship

Winning Edge


Follow Steve Steele on Twitter/X @Steele_House.

Follow All We Are Doing:
Follow us on Twitter/X @CoachKGrabowski.
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Thank you for supporting our partners:
Learn More about Signature Championship Rings:
Signature Championship Rings is a leading designer and supplier of championship rings, serving over 10,000 teams and organizations. With a focus on quality craftsmanship, easy team ordering processes, and affordability, Signature Champions celebrate every champion and their achievements, making their moment last a lifetime. For more information, visit www.signaturechampions.com/podcast.

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Champions: Become the Mountain – Steve Steele, Head Coach, Riggs High School (SD)

In this clinic segment, Coach Tujague shares insights and strategies related to offensive line play. He emphasizes the importance of attributes like toughness and selflessness in players. He discusses teaching methods, including utilizing technology for coaching during the COVID-19 pandemic, and emphasizes the need for continuous learning and adaptation in coaching practices. He finishes up with a concept he calls “stealing energy” from opponents to gain a physical advantage in the 4th quarter.

Show Notes:

Introduction and Purpose of the Clinic

Importance of Toughness and Leadership

Teaching Progressions during COVID

Key Points for Efficient Run Blocking

Importance of Stance and Productivity

Rules for Handling Unexpected Situations

Protocol for Player Execution on the Field

Mantra for Feet, Hands, Hat in Gameplay

Strategy of Stealing Energy from Opponents

Winning Edge


Get access to this and all the talks from Lauren’s First and Goal Clinic, plus the Spring Series Sessions which begin April 10th with Minnesota Head Coach PJ Fleck. Upcoming sessions include Kansas Head Coach Lance Leipold and Washington Commanders Head Coach Dan Quinn. 

Link to Lauren’s First and Goal Premium Memberships:
LFGF Premium Membership
LFGF Premium Staff Membership
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Importance of the Basics- Mike Cummings, Offensive Line Coach, Central Michigan

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