An American Football Coach in Germany

Well it’s been awhile since we have posted something on our blog.  What we thought would be an easy, fun task ended up being something that we all had to put on the back burner because of various reasons.  The objective behind our blog was to have our little network of coaches (three of us) expand on their own ideas and thoughts.  However, shortly after January two of this three headed monster were given increase responsibilities at their respected schools.  One was given the title of Head Boys Track Coach, while the other was hired as Offensive Coordinator at another school.  Congrats to both my boys!  Now the third head of this monster?  Well, that’s me.  My excuse you ask?  Beginning in January was the beginning of my football season.  Confused?  I don’t blame you.

I currently reside in Homburg, Germany which is located in the Southwest part of the country about 30 minutes away from the French border.  I moved here in July 2010 with my wife who currently serves with the U.S. Armed Forces.  Yes, I am the dependant (you can make your jokes now), but because of my wife I have been able to meet some great coaches that have taught me a lot about the game, while sharing with them my thoughts as well.  But I digress.

Shortly after arriving in Germany I was offered an opportunity to become the Head Coach of a local German Football League team; the Kaiserslautern Pikes.  The Pikes had been through some rough times during their season and had decided to part ways with their former Head Coach during the July break.  I was both shocked and excited.  I had never thought when I got off that plane in Germany that I would get my first Head Coaching shot.  I gladly accepted the position and began the process of evaluating where the program was and what needed to be fixed. 

The Pikes would finish the season with only 2 wins, both before I arrived.  Though they had shown some fight in their last two games, tying one game and losing another by 6.  The very first thing I noticed was that this team had some good ball players, they just needed some direction.  I was excited to get started and put my stamp on this team.  That would begin in November.

Fast forward to today.  The Pikes are currently 5-0 and lead our league, with our next game tomorrow.  Over the course of the next few weeks/months I would like to share with you my experiences I have had thus far here in Germany.  I will tell you that it has been quite the experience some good, some bad. 

I don’t think many people back in the United States realize how big the game of American Football is worldwide.  In Germany alone there are over 300 teams, and though it isn’t like you are watching the SEC or Big Ten on Saturdays you do see some real good football.  Please feel free to ask me any questions any time about my entries or just about football in general.


Below is a clip from the 1st Play we ran this season.