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Kauling the Shots - A Conversation With Ray Kauling
In Episode 63 of Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee — presented by the Swinford Media Group and sponsored by Adrenaline Fundraising, Marion Plumbing, and Swinford Wedding Photography and Videography — host Kerry Martin sits down with Southern Illinois coaching icon Ray Kauling, a Hall of Famer whose career spans more than two decades of leadership, program building, and postseason success.
Kauling spent 21 seasons as a head football coach at Mater Dei, Centralia, and Trenton Wesclin, compiling a 120–88 career record and leading his teams to 10 IHSA playoff appearances. His résumé includes a state runner-up finish in 2006, a semifinal run in 2008, multiple Coach of the Year honors, and induction into the Illinois High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2025. Through it all, Kauling built a reputation not just for winning, but for developing players, staffs, and programs the right way.
From small-town roots in Bessemer to playoff runs under the brightest Friday night lights, Kauling’s journey reflects the evolution of high school football itself. He discusses growing up at Mater Dei, playing college football at Illinois College, and the mentors who shaped his philosophy — along with the moment early in his career when he realized coaching was more than a job, but a calling.
Kerry and Kauling dive deep into the craft of coaching: learning at clinics, sitting in on game-planning meetings, evolving practice structure from “more reps” to “better reps,” and adapting schemes to fit personnel. Kauling shares insights into offensive philosophy, defensive innovation, and the constant balancing act between preparation, tempo, and player development.
The conversation also revisits some of the defining moments of Kauling’s career — including Centralia’s program turnaround, a memorable playoff run that culminated in a state championship appearance, and the high-pressure decisions that can define a season. He reflects on leadership under pressure, trusting assistants, and the lessons learned from both victories and setbacks.
In this candid, thoughtful episode, Kauling offers perspective for young coaches navigating today’s landscape: the value of humility, the importance of listening before leading, and why passion for practice often matters more than the scoreboard on Friday night. It’s a masterclass in longevity, adaptability, and love for the game — delivered by one of Southern Illinois football’s most respected voices.
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By Swinford Media GroupIn Episode 63 of Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee — presented by the Swinford Media Group and sponsored by Adrenaline Fundraising, Marion Plumbing, and Swinford Wedding Photography and Videography — host Kerry Martin sits down with Southern Illinois coaching icon Ray Kauling, a Hall of Famer whose career spans more than two decades of leadership, program building, and postseason success.
Kauling spent 21 seasons as a head football coach at Mater Dei, Centralia, and Trenton Wesclin, compiling a 120–88 career record and leading his teams to 10 IHSA playoff appearances. His résumé includes a state runner-up finish in 2006, a semifinal run in 2008, multiple Coach of the Year honors, and induction into the Illinois High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2025. Through it all, Kauling built a reputation not just for winning, but for developing players, staffs, and programs the right way.
From small-town roots in Bessemer to playoff runs under the brightest Friday night lights, Kauling’s journey reflects the evolution of high school football itself. He discusses growing up at Mater Dei, playing college football at Illinois College, and the mentors who shaped his philosophy — along with the moment early in his career when he realized coaching was more than a job, but a calling.
Kerry and Kauling dive deep into the craft of coaching: learning at clinics, sitting in on game-planning meetings, evolving practice structure from “more reps” to “better reps,” and adapting schemes to fit personnel. Kauling shares insights into offensive philosophy, defensive innovation, and the constant balancing act between preparation, tempo, and player development.
The conversation also revisits some of the defining moments of Kauling’s career — including Centralia’s program turnaround, a memorable playoff run that culminated in a state championship appearance, and the high-pressure decisions that can define a season. He reflects on leadership under pressure, trusting assistants, and the lessons learned from both victories and setbacks.
In this candid, thoughtful episode, Kauling offers perspective for young coaches navigating today’s landscape: the value of humility, the importance of listening before leading, and why passion for practice often matters more than the scoreboard on Friday night. It’s a masterclass in longevity, adaptability, and love for the game — delivered by one of Southern Illinois football’s most respected voices.