I can tell you from experience that you need to find a situation where the Head Coach places high value on teaching his assistants the " right way" to coach. Of course there is no set "right way", but you must find a situation were there is heavy emphasis placed on the process, where each coach has meaningful input, and where you can learn. There are situations that you may get into that you may win a lot of games, but will not be learning a much in terms of schemes, how to prepare a game plan effectively, coaching a particular side of the ball or position, or running a program (However, I will say that most teams that are winning games are not doing so by going through the motions.) You will be simply put into their way of doing things and not brought up to speed on the why's or the how's.

 

I also recommend doing anything you can do to be involved. Get in the weight room, attend any clinic you can, meet with coaches, be willing to paint/clean/etc., and while doing this ASK what you don't know or might be unsure about.

 

In terms of finding a position most HS coaches utlize the KHSAA's site or the coaches listserv to advertise jobs. I don't know that there is a coach out there that wouldn't meet with you if you were to inquire. Once you meet with a few coaches, trust me, it will be clear what situation will be the best in terms of learning and growing.

 

Coaching football is a lifestyle. Find a role model who does things right, can have fun while doing it, is ultimately concerned first with doing things the right way for the kids, and has his prorities in place.

 

Best of luck!!

 

If the coach is not a coach's coach then find someone who is. In other words, if he does not coach the assistant coaches as well as the players, move on.

Guys. Advice has been great. As the conversation has picked up it has gotten better and better. I do have another question for you... In the Boone, Kenton, and Campbell county areas, what are the best places, best opportunities, or best environments to try to get my 'foot in the door'?