Challenges of a First-Year Coordinator

Challenges of a First-Year Coordinator | Coach Josh Katz (West Orange HS)

In this episode, Kyle and Matt sit down with Coach Josh Katz, Defensive Coordinator at West Orange High School in Orlando, FL, to discuss the real challenges of being a first-year coordinator. From managing egos to finding his identity as a play-caller, Coach Katz brings an honest and tactical perspective to the table. Whether you're stepping into your first coordinator role or you're a seasoned vet looking for fresh insight, this one delivers.

TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 – Intro & Coach Katz Joins the Show
00:45 – Teaching Biomedical Science & Coaching Football
02:00 – Coach Katz Shares His Philosophy as a First-Year DC
03:30 – Game Planning: What No One Tells You
05:15 – Struggles with Practice Planning and Time Management
07:10 – Learning to Adjust & Getting Staff Buy-In
10:00 – Building the Call Sheet: The Weekly Process
14:00 – Halftime Adjustments & Communication with the Staff
18:20 – Teaching Coverage Rules to Young DBs
22:30 – What Coach Katz Would Tell Himself Week 1
25:45 – Audience Q&A and Final Thoughts

KEY TAKEAWAYS:
First-year coordinators often face information overload — simplify and clarify.
You can’t do it alone. Building staff trust and communication is essential.
Practice planning is harder than it looks — reps need purpose.
Teaching players your system is just as important as having one.

Whether you're a high school coordinator, aspiring coach, or just a ball junkie, this episode packs insight, honesty, and some solid laughs.

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