Identity

This Is Who We Are


I was watching a college bowl game the other night, Wisconsin against Miami, and it was reinforced to me how important it is to have an identity. To be able to say, “This is what we do, this is what we’re all about and you have to stop it if you’re going to beat us.” Now, I am not a Wisconsin fan. I don’t particularly root for them or against them. But one thing I do know, I sure do like the way they play the game. They hustled and played hard all four quarters, played with genuine enthusiasm, and most importantly, stuck to their identity.

Wisconsin is going to run the football 35-40 times a game pulling guards and tackles to outnumber you at the point of attack. They are going to throw to the tight ends and utilize their wide receivers effectively. In short, run the football with a power running game, use the tight ends with play action, play good defense and do it all well. The result was a 20-14 win that the Badgers dominated more than the final score indicated. Yes, they do have talented players, but not ultra talented like some teams. I am impressed with their big mobile linemen that can pull and lead attacks. You do have to have the players to execute your game plan but I believe there are things any coach can do to be more effective.

At the high school level it is important to have a total program. I believe a coaching staff should be clear on their team’s identity. This is our base package, this is what we do. The freshman team is going to run our base package, the sophomore or JV team is going to run the base package and the varsity is going to hang their hat on the base package. Of course, the varsity will add more and be more sophisticated but it shouldn’t take long for everyone to be able see your identity come through and establish itself early in most cases. By running the base package, both offensively and defensively through the entire program, it becomes second nature to the kids and develops confidence in what they’re doing.

I am not endorsing any particular offense, defense, or style of play. Heck, just about all of them are good. Just decide which what offense and defense you are going to run and then stick with it and believe in it. Sell it to your kids that it’s the best for them and then make it your identity. It can become a source of pride for the kids, coaches, and community.