Coach Mike Simons is a longtime wrestling coach at Thurston High School in Springfield, Oregon, where he has led both the boys’ and girls’ programs since the early 2000s. He is known for building competitive teams with strong participation and depth, developing one of Oregon’s top girls wrestling programs, and emphasizing academics, character, and life skills in addition to athletic achievement. Coach Simons has earned multiple national coaching honors, including the 2020-21 NFHS National Wrestling Coach of the Year and the NWCA National High School Girls Coach of the Year. He has guided the girls’ program to multiple state titles. In 2026, he led the boys’ team to its first state championship since 2002, breaking through after three consecutive runner-up finishes. Coach Simons wrestled collegiately at Oregon State and followed in his father’s footsteps as an educator and wrestling coach after a 13 year hiatus in the business world. 

In this episode of The Coachers Podcast, Coach Simons shares his journey into coaching, the impact of wrestling on youth development, and the importance of creating a positive team culture. He discusses innovative coaching techniques, the evolution of wrestling, and the core values that guide his coaching philosophy. The conversation also touches on the challenges of recruiting athletes to the sport and the mental toughness required in wrestling. Coach Simons emphasizes the significance of commitment, teamwork, consistency, and the flow of practice in developing successful wrestlers. He shares insights on overcoming setbacks, the influence of mentors / colleagues, and defining success beyond just winning championships. Coach Simons also offers advice for young coaches, highlighting the significance of surrounding oneself with good people and the value of continuous learning in coaching.

Takeaways: 

-Building Confidence through consistency!

-Why is Wrestling the Greatest Sport?

-The Impact of Wrestling on Athletes

-PIN to WIN! Pin Chain for the fastest pinner of the week.

-What makes a great wrestler: Elite Competitor and Willingness to Learn

-The greatest challenge is getting kids to try wrestling for the first time

-Wrestling teaches resilience and self-reliance.

-Core Values of Thurston Wrestling

-Wrestling teaches you to compete in life!

-Practices Must Have a Flow to them

-Team success is built on individual contributions.

-Wrestling is the best way to get into Wrestling shape

-Don’t try and reinvent the Wheel – Surround yourself with Good People

-Success is measured by the impact on athletes' lives.

-Passing the Torch to the next generation of Coaches

-Continuous learning is vital for coaches – Seek guidance from others who’ve done it

https://linktr.ee/The_Coachers_Podcast

Coach Bubba Lemon is the Head Coach for both Boys' Basketball and Girls’ Flag Football at Tualatin High School in Tualatin, Oregon. Coach Lemon graduated from Tualatin in 2006, then went on to play football, basketball, and track at Linfield University before transferring to Willamette University. He is the grandson of Harlem Globetrotters legend Meadowlark Lemon. After 9 nine years as an assistant football coach at Willamette, Coach Lemon returned to his alma mater. He spent six seasons as a junior varsity and varsity assistant before being named head coach in June 2022. In his first season (2022-23), he guided Tualatin to a 24-5 record and the program's first OSAA 6A state championship. The team repeated as state champions in 2023. Under his leadership, the Timberwolves have secured multiple Three Rivers League titles, earned a third-place finish at state in 2024, and won another 6A title in 2026. Coach Lemon has been named 6A All-State Coach of the Year and has received many other coaching honors.

 In this conversation, Coach Bubba Lemon shares his journey from a multi-sport athlete to becoming the head basketball coach at Tualatin High School. He discusses his coaching philosophy, emphasizing the importance of player development, joy in the game, and building a winning culture. Coach Lemon also highlights the growth of girls' flag football and the fun dynamics of coaching them. He elaborates on practice strategies, the significance of trust within the team, and the overlooked aspects of game situations and timeouts in basketball. Coach Lemon shares insights on coaching strategies, emphasizing the importance of structured timeouts, unconventional statistics, and the pivotal role of point guards in his system. He discusses building a strong team culture akin to family, handling losses with a constructive mindset, and the significance of continuous learning in coaching. The dialogue highlights the mental aspects of sports and the need for intentional communication with players.

Photo Credit: Tualatin Life

Takeaways:

Help Kids Reach Their Goals

Coaching is about providing opportunities for players!

The Why: Help players find their Joy / Create Experiences

Female Athletes are like Sponges and show incredible support for one another

Practice should be high-energy, loud, and constantly moving

Culture of Competing and Never Failing our Teammates

“A Quiet Gym is a Loosing Gym”

Practice Structure: Personal Development Time

The Infinity Drill

Synergy with the Youth Program

How Can I make Tualatin A Basketball Hotspot?

Why is Basketball the Greatest Sport?

Timeout Strategy: Don’t call them to stop Momentum 

Greatest Challenge in Coaching: Buy-In

Who’s on The Court At The End of The Game?

Emphasizing Tip Outs!

https://linktr.ee/The_Coachers_Podcast

Coach John Mannion is a longtime high school football coach and was most recently the founding head coach of the Mountainside High School Mavericks in Beaverton, Oregon. Hired in 2017 when the school first opened, Coach Mannion built the program from the ground up, leading the Mavericks from their inaugural 2018 season through 2022. Over those five seasons, he compiled a record of 29-20, including a strong 9-2 campaign in 2022 that saw the team reach the 6A state quarterfinals. Before Mountainside, Mannion spent seven successful years as head coach at Silverton High School (2010–2017), where his teams went 57-20, won two league championships (2012 and 2014), made multiple playoff runs, and reached the state championship game in 2014. A coach for more than 35 years overall — starting back in 1988 — Mannion also had earlier success at Foothill High School in California, where his teams won multiple league and sectional titles. Coach Mannion stepped down as Mountainside’s head coach in January 2023, since retiring, he’s stayed active in the coaching community through writing and sharing insights on the game. You can check out his work via Substack: “John Mannion’s Coaching Playbook”. 

In this conversation, Coach John Mannion shares his journey coaching football across multiple high schools, including the challenges of building programs from scratch. He highlights the central role of relationships, core values, and resilience in developing strong teams and coaching his own children. Coach Mannion stresses consistency in coaching, the importance of making practices harder than games, and football’s inherently unselfish nature. A major focus is building a cohesive culture where every player feels valued and has a role, regardless of athletic ability. He discusses accountability, consistent treatment of all players, and the power of team-oriented rewards. Coach Mannion also emphasizes the often-overlooked impact of special teams in high school football and defines success through personal growth and player experience rather than just wins and losses. Finally, he reflects on the evolving landscape of football and its effects on team dynamics and player retention.

Takeaways:

Focus on what you can control – Out scrap the other team.

Why is Football the Greatest Sport?

The Value of Special Teams!

Every Kick in the Endzone is like a Sack in HS.

The Dynamics of coaching your own kids.

If you Tolerate it You Encourage it.

A team's demeanor reflects the coach's attitude.

Success is built on resilience and learning from setbacks. 

Consistency in all aspects translates to performance on the field.

Making practice harder than the game prepares players for real situations.

Every player should feel valued to enhance team culture.

Football allows players of varying abilities to find their role.

Helmet Stickers: Team recognition boosts morale and encourages participation.

Success should be measured by player development, not just wins.

Practice is where meaningful relationships are built.

https://linktr.ee/The_Coachers_Podcast

Coach Chris Knudsen is a longtime high school football coach best known for his 32-year tenure as head coach at Centennial High School in Gresham, Oregon. He served as the Eagles' head football coach from 1986 until his retirement in 2018 with a record of 158-158. Coach Knudsen was recognized for his coaching excellence, having been selected as the large classification state Coach of the Year three times. After retiring from Centennial, he transitioned into roles supporting coaching, including serving as an associate director for the Oregon Athletic Coaches Association. He also serves as a defensive analyst for the College of Siskiyous, where he gets to work alongside his son, Tyler who’s the defensive coordinator. 

In this episode of The Coachers Podcast, Keanu Yamamoto interviews Coach Chris Knudsen, who shares his extensive journey in coaching. Coach Knudsen discusses the importance of high school coaches in shaping young athletes, the challenges of coaching, and memorable moments from his career. He emphasizes the need for coaches to be themselves and the valuable life lessons that football teaches. In this conversation, Coach Knudsen shares his insights on football coaching, emphasizing the importance of teaching, team dynamics, and mental health awareness. He discusses strategies for effective coaching, including the significance of reinforcing positive behavior, and communication during setbacks. Coach Knudsen also highlights creative fundraising strategies and the need for shared leadership within teams, ultimately defining success in coaching beyond just wins.

Photo Credit: The Oregonian

Takeaways:

-High school coaches help players become the best person possible.

-We need to hire more coaches as teachers.

-The influence of coaches on students is significant.

-The Impact of Coach Ad Rutschman

-Football teaches valuable life lessons.

-The camaraderie in football lasts a lifetime.

-Why is Football the Greatest Sport

-Be yourself as a coach, don't emulate others. 

-Control the Controllable

-High school players often lack discipline, which the triple option can expose

-Coaching should focus on teaching rather than just yelling instructions.

-Mental health awareness in sports has evolved significantly over the years.

-The Ford Dealership and Fundraising at Grateful Dead Concert

-Success in coaching is defined by improvement and character development, not just wins.

https://linktr.ee/The_Coachers_Podcast

In this episode of The Coachers Podcast, host Keanu Yamamoto interviews Brad Uemoto, head football coach at Konawaena High School in Hawaii. Under Coach Uemoto, Konawaena has secured multiple BIIF championships, a state title in 2022, and runner-up finishes in 2023 and 2024. They explore Coach Uemoto's path into coaching, the critical role of strong team culture, and the realities of high school coaching. Key topics include:

• Staff retention and Player Commitment / Perseverance
• Konawaena Community & Island Lifestyle 
• Coaching Philosophy, Emotional Investment in the Sport, and Head Coach Responsibilities
• What does Team mean: Players, Administration, Staff, and Team Mom’s

The conversation emphasizes teamwork, dedication, accountability, and innovative techniques, while sharing stories about post-game meals, emotional player support, leadership development, self-scouting, and maintaining perspective through wins and losses. They celebrate the growth of young athletes and the distinctive community spirit of coaching in Hawaii.

https://linktr.ee/The_Coachers_Podcast

In this engaging conversation, Coach Guy Enriques shares his extensive journey in volleyball coaching, from his beginnings in Hawaii to his ascension at Oregon State, and most recently his 24 years of stewardship at Kamehameha Schools Hawaii. He discusses the importance of family dynamics in coaching, the innovative BRED system he developed for player development, and his coaching philosophy centered on People First. Coach Guy reflects on the challenges of transitioning to a Division I program, the significance of team culture, and his proudest moments as a coach, particularly watching his five sons excel in volleyball and play at the DI level. He emphasizes the evolution of the sport and the importance of learning from others in the coaching community. The Guy Enriques Team Camp (GETC) is one of the largest if not the largest team volleyball camp in the Pacific Northwest, celebrating their 40th year as of 2026. The conversation highlights what sets GETC apart from the rest, emphasizing the unique approach of “Being Great at the Things That Require No Talent”.  

Key Takeaways:

-BRED system: “Breaking Records Every Day” 

-The GETC Approach and Tournament Style Format

-Rapid Improvement Occurs when you Manage the Skills you Value

-Consistency in coaching staff leads to long-term success.

-Reps, Reps, Reps

-Be Great at The Things That Require No Talent

-Hire people who compliment your weaknesses

-Effective coaching requires managing both skills and people.

-3 Things To Do to Win A Game

-Serve Receive: “Your Life Depends on 6 Arms”

-Drills should incorporate pressure situations to simulate game conditions.

-Handling poor performances requires a focus on learning and moving forward.

-Establishing respect and accountability fosters leadership.

-The One Position Challenge

-Principle-based coaching

https://linktr.ee/The_Coachers_Podcast

Coach Keith Terry is the head football coach at Mount Tahoma High School in Tacoma, Washington. A proud alumnus of the school, Coach Terry has deep roots with the T-Birds, having returned to the program as an assistant coach in 2020 before being promoted to head coach in 2022. With over 15 years of high school coaching experience, Coach Terry has focused on rebuilding the Mount Tahoma football program by setting a high standard, adding alum to the coaching staff, and getting the community involved. He emphasizes creating an environment where young men become "uncommon" in their approach to life and football. His leadership has earned recognition, including being named Seattle Seahawks Coach of the Week in 2025. Under Coach Terry's guidance, the T-Birds ended a long playoff drought in 2023 and advanced to the state quarterfinals in consecutive years (2023 and 2024), marking the first such achievement in over 40 years. In the 2025 season, Mount Tahoma went undefeated in the regular season, won the 3A Puget Sound League title, and made a historic playoff run. They reached the WIAA Class 3A state championship game for the first time since 1980 falling to O'Dea in a close 21-14 contest at Husky Stadium. Despite the loss, the 2025 campaign is widely regarded as a defining moment, and setting the stage for future success. 

In this episode of The Coachers Podcast, Coach Terry shares his journey from a young coach to leading a high school program that has seen significant success. He discusses the importance of leadership, setting high standards, and the impact of football as a tool for personal development and molding young men. The conversation also delves into building team culture, fostering community involvement, and the challenges of coaching. Coach Terry emphasizes the need for intentionality in coaching and the importance of being a role model for young athletes. When asked his Why? Coach answered with the response of “Be Life Changing”. This was an inspiring conversation, and it was evident that Coach Terry is in it for all the right reasons! Thank you once again Coach, keep continuing to “Raise The Standard”.

Takeaways:

Football is a tool that opens doors for young men.

Creating a standard is essential for success.

Hold Coaches and Players to same Standard.

Leadership is about motivating both players and staff.

The best ability is availability; keeping players healthy is crucial.

Building a strong community around the program enhances team cohesion.

Vulnerability among players fosters deeper connections.

Why is Football the Greatest Sport?

Intentionality in coaching leads to better outcomes for players.

Every opportunity in coaching is a chance to learn and grow.

Coaching is about helping kids grow beyond the field.

Aim to be Uncommon.

https://linktr.ee/The_Coachers_Podcast

In this episode of The Coachers Podcast, Keanu Yamamoto interviews Coach Emma Vaughan, the Head Track and Field Coach at Central Catholic HS in Portland, Oregon. Coach Vaughan shares her journey as dedicated coach, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, community, and personal growth in athletics. She discusses the unique challenges of coaching high school athletes, the significance of being present in schools, and the need for tailored coaching approaches for different athletes. The conversation also delves into the metrics of success in track and field, combating performance anxiety, and the strategies for fostering a positive and engaging environment. Coach Vaughan's insights highlight the evolving nature of coaching and the importance of building trust and cohesion within teams. Her why: Is to help others find their greatness, and her love for competition.  

Takeaways

-The Difference between Greatness and Excellence.

-Lean in with Curiosity, rather than Suspicion 

-The Purpose of Sport

-What Makes Track Unique

-Coaching is about supporting athletes in finding their greatness.

-Understanding neurodiversity helps tailor coaching approaches.

-Creating a fun and engaging environment is crucial for athlete retention.

-Empowering athletes through shared leadership fosters team cohesion.

-Performance anxiety can be addressed through preparation and mindset.

-Metrics of success should include personal improvement, not just winning.

-Coaching requires adapting to the unique needs of each athlete. 

https://linktr.ee/The_Coachers_Podcast

This episode is for the Aspiring Coach, The Coach that’s trying to climb the ladder, The Coach who faces the internal conflict between Family and Career.  

Coach Charlie Hall is the Head Football Coach at Phoenix High School in Phoenix, Oregon. He was hired in January 2023 to lead the program, bringing over 40 years of extensive coaching experience across high school and college levels. Coach Hall previously served as head coach at Southern Oregon University (SOU Raiders, NAIA) from 2017 to 2022, where he compiled a 25-19 record, won a Frontier Conference championship, earned Frontier Conference Coach of the Year honors, and guided the team to the NAIA national semifinals in 2017. Before that, he had a highly successful 12-year stint as head coach at nearby Ashland High School (2005–2016), posting a 91-41 record with four conference titles, nine playoff appearances, and a trip to the Oregon Class 5A state championship game in 2015. He also contributed to Ashland's 1998 state championship as an assistant. His career includes college roles such as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Northern Arizona University (2001–2005), where he was named American Football Monthly NCAA Division IAA Offensive Coordinator of the Year in 2003, along with other assistant positions at universities like Washington, Idaho, New Mexico, and North Texas. Coach Hall, who began his coaching journey with ties to Southern Oregon also teaches health/PE at the school. He is active in community initiatives, such as organizing aspects of the Pacific Rim Bowl for cultural exchange in football.

In this episode of the Coachers Podcast Coach Hall shares his extensive coaching journey, beginning with his early influences and the importance of family support. He discusses the challenges of coaching at the collegiate and high school level, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding in working with young athletes. Coach Hall elaborates on his coaching philosophy, which centers around building relationships and creating a culture of care among players. He reflects on the unique challenges faced in high school coaching, particularly regarding player retention and commitment. Throughout the conversation, Coach Hall highlights the bonds formed through football and the lasting impact of mentorship in the lives of young athletes.

Takeaways:

-Coaching Carousel and Climbing the Coaching Ladder

-The Crossroads of Family and Career 

-Being a positive Role Model on Campus and Impacting everyday students

-The challenges of Coaching

-Transactional vs Transformational Coach

-The impact of the late Coach Dave Mitchell

-Culture of Love and Care among players to foster teamwork.

-Transitioning between College levels and the HS level

-The importance of understanding players' backgrounds and challenges they face outside of football.

-Player Retention, Coaching Retention, and Player Commitment 

-The need for compassion and flexibility in coaching high school athletes.

-Football creates lifelong bonds and connections among teammates.

-The essence of football lies in the relationships built through shared experiences.

-The One Formation Challenge

PC: Southern Oregon University Athletics

https://linktr.ee/The_Coachers_Podcast

Coach Corben Hyatt is the Head Football Coach at Summit High School in Bend, Oregon. He joined the Storm football staff in 2013 as the Offensive Line Coach and was promoted to Head Coach in 2017. Under his leadership, the program has achieved significant success, including leading the team to two state championships (notably in 2015—as an assistant and 2022 as head coach), a state runner-up finish in 2025, and consistent recognition for high team GPA in the state from 2014 onward. In 2025, he was named IMC All-League Coach of the Year. A former player himself, Coach Hyatt played football at McMinnville High School, Walla Walla Community College, and Western Oregon University. Beyond coaching, he serves as the Executive Director for The Office Group, a nonprofit that assists under-resourced students in preparing and organizing for college. 

In this conversation, Coach Corben Hyatt shares his journey into coaching, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, community involvement, character development, and much more. He discusses the challenges of coaching at the high school level, the significance of building relationships with players, and innovative strategies for team building and academic success. Coach Hyatt reflects on his experiences at Summit High School and the adversity early on that helped shape the program’s culture. He attributes much of his success to not only his players, but staff continuity and retention. Coach wants to create college-level experiences for his high school players. He emphasizes the significance of efficient practice structures, injury prevention, and the dynamics of team leadership. Summit’s team motto: One Way, The Right Way, Community, Classroom, and Field

Takeaways:

- Providing HS kids with College Experiences

- Playing Tough Teams Early – Motivation throughout offseason and Summer

- Heavy Emphasis on Scout Team Looks. The Separator 

- Player Retention through experiences, success and college placement

- Efficiency at Practice – How can we incentivize players

- Best Ability is Availability

- Everyone has a Role

- Relationships, Relationships, Relationships

- Advice to Young Coaches – Do it All!

- Team Academic Advisor / Mandatory Study Hall for B’s or Below

- Empowering Players: Leadership Council

- Player Led Committees: Team Bonding and Community

- What makes football unique?

- Head Coach as Special Teams Coach creates greater buy-in

- College Football Landscape and GMs

PC: Michael Nelson Photography

https://linktr.ee/The_Coachers_Podcast