Advertise on podcast: WSFCA Winning Ways - Presented by the Washington State Football Coaches Association

Winning Ways S2E2: Enumclaw HC Mark Gunderson on Building a Program, Staff Continuity, Camp Culture & Toughness In Season 2, Session 2 of Winning Ways with the Washington State Football Coaches Association, host Dan Teeter interviews Enumclaw head coach Mark Gunderson, whose team is 6–0 and highly ranked in 3A, reflecting on his 15-year tenure and the program’s turnaround after early losing seasons. Gunderson details his coaching background and influences from Keith Ross, Frosty Westering, Jim Sutrick, Tom Ingles, and key assistants Jeff Johnson and Taylor Score, emphasizing staff continuity, middle-school alignment, and a system-based offensive language. He explains how team-building—especially Central camp with skits and “fear factor”—helps attract athletes and build belonging. They discuss Enumclaw traditions at Pete’s Pool, the Battle of the Bridge rivalry with White River, and the “hog trailer” entrance for linemen. Gunderson also addresses program attrition, specialization, transfers, off-season relationships, weekly planning, and defining success beyond wins. 00:00 Season Intro and Guest 00:42 Coach Gunderson Resume 03:29 Coaching Tree Journey 07:42 Building a Winning Program 10:01 Key Assistants and Staff 12:54 Middle School Pipeline 14:41 Culture Shift and Camp 17:10 Camp Traditions Fear Factor 19:50 Enumclaw Traditions and Rivalry 25:36 Hog Trailer and Community 26:55 Sumner Game and Coach Ross 29:26 Ross as Mentor 32:30 Favorite Ross Moments 36:44 Coaching Family Life 39:37 Weekly Game Planning 44:12 Themes and Culture 47:56 Building Toughness 50:48 Participation and Transfers 57:53 Holiday Lights and Farewell Send us Fan Mail

Winning Ways Season 2 Premiere: Shapiro & Matsumoto on Transformational Coaching, Discipline, and Building Champions Season two of Winning Ways (Washington State Football Coaches Association) opens with King’s head coach Jim Shapiro and Lincoln (Tacoma) head coach Masaki Matsumoto, connected as alumni of King’s Schools and as former coach and player. Shapiro’s background includes playing at Azusa Pacific and PLU under Frosty Westering, winning a national championship, and leading King’s for 33 years (30 as head coach) with about 190 wins, multiple coach-of-the-year honors, and 11 academic state championships; he contrasts fear-based coaching with love-based “total release,” explains accountability through attention to details, shares using AI for practice planning and scouting, and describes shifting away from play-calling to focus on roles, staff cohesion, and “next play” mentality. Matsumoto, born in Japan and raised by a disciplined single mother, describes coaching in inner-city LA, leading Bernstein’s turnaround, and using parent letters (“The Letterman,” featured by LA Times and ESPN E:60) to affirm players, then building Lincoln’s program with morning workouts, a Champions Club incentive system, and core covenants/values focused on love, ownership, accountability, and discipline. Both emphasize mentoring, loyalty, staff development, family/faith balance, and transformational impact beyond wins. 00:00 Season Two Kickoff 00:44 Coach Introductions 02:51 Accolades And Backgrounds 07:35 Favorite Memories 08:01 321 Yard Night 09:32 Vulnerability In Coaching 12:01 Frosty Westering Impact 17:06 Discipline With Love 19:14 Masaki Cultural Journey 25:36 Letterman Program Origins 28:00 Shapiro Tech Evolution 31:37 AI For Scouting 33:37 Visiting Other Programs 36:56 Coaches Pick Two 39:26 Charter Bus Stories 40:05 Youth Program Fallout 42:19 Post COVID Buy In 44:07 Champions Club Incentives 46:56 Core Values North Star 50:17 Shapiro Staff Reset 56:21 Masaki Playcalling Dilemma 01:03:26 Regrets And Lessons 01:05:54 Highlights Beyond Wins 01:08:30 Unsaid Appreciation 01:11:16 Weekend Reset Rituals 01:15:00 Final Coach Encouragement Send us Fan Mail

In this insightful interview, Rory Rosenbach, a high school football coach and athletic director with a storied career, shares his experiences and lessons learned from decades of coaching with host, Dan Teeter. The conversation begins with Rosenbach's early life, highlighting his achievements as an Allstate tight end at Snohomish High School, his time at the Air Force Academy and Oregon, and his unexpected entry into coaching at Marist Catholic in Oregon. He describes building the Glacier Peak High School football program from scratch and leading Union High School to a state championship. The discussion covers the challenges of maintaining competitive programs, including Rosenbach's take on the public vs. private school debate and recent transfer rule changes. The talk becomes deeply personal as Rosenbach recounts the tragic loss of his daughter and other significant losses in his life, his decision to step away from coaching, and the support he received from his team during difficult times. Rosenbach offers valuable advice for young coaches, emphasizing the importance of building strong relationships, hiring good people, and maintaining perspective and joy in the coaching profession. 00:00 Introduction to Coach Rory Rosenbach 01:02 Early Coaching Career and Success at Marist 01:28 Building Glacier Peak High School's Football Program 02:08 Transition to Union High School 02:41 Return to Glacier Peak and Career Achievements 03:32 Personal Reflections and Coaching Philosophy 04:07 Playing for Coach Dick Armstrong 10:23 Experience at Air Force Academy and Oregon 24:53 Transition from Player to Coach 36:52 Meeting the New Principal 37:33 First Coaching Experiences 38:26 Building a Coaching Career 40:21 Starting at Glacier Peak 43:24 Challenges and Successes 01:00:19 Transition to Union High School 01:09:51 Union High School's Championship Journey 01:10:31 Building a Strong Leadership Core 01:11:38 Challenges in Scheduling Games 01:12:27 Rivalries and Relationships 01:15:18 A Memorable Trip to California 01:22:47 Overcoming Adversity and Team Resilience 01:27:36 The Importance of Selflessness in Teams 01:31:01 Personal Tragedy and Team Support 01:43:23 Shoulder Picture Memory 01:43:46 A Special Night and Drive 01:44:50 COVID Challenges and Adaptations 01:46:12 Coaching During COVID 01:49:25 Adopting and Family Life 01:50:56 Reflecting on Coaching Decisions 02:01:11 Public vs. Private School Debate 02:15:52 Final Thoughts and Advice for Coaches Send us Fan Mail

Winning Ways Episode 9: A Legacy of Excellence with Bob and Nick Lucey In this episode of Winning Ways, presented by the Washington State Football Coaches Association, host Dan Teeter welcomes a remarkable father-son coaching duo, Bob and Nick Lucey. Bob, a legendary coach with 31 years at Curtis High School and four state championships, shares his experiences and contributions that earned him multiple Hall of Fame honors and the naming of Bob Lucey Field in his honor. Nick, an accomplished coach with 24 years of experience and current head coach at Squalicum High School, discusses his journey and recent success, including a significant win against a top-ranked team. The conversation explores their coaching philosophies, the importance of discipline, and the challenges of competing in highly competitive leagues. The episode also introduces Bob's upcoming book, "Football Symphony," co-authored with Don Lichte, which delves into the dynamics and guiding principles behind their championship teams. 00:00 Introduction to Winning Ways Episode 9 00:32 Meet Bob Lucey: A Legendary Coach 01:38 Nick Lucey's Coaching Journey 02:14 Comparing Father and Son's Coaching Records 05:03 Bob Lucey's Greatest Coaching Memories 07:59 Nick Lucey's Early Football Memories 17:03 Challenges and Rewards of Coaching in Competitive Leagues 28:14 Father-Son Coaching Dynamics 29:26 Defensive Strategies and High School Coaching 30:56 Implementing the 52 Defense 32:49 Coaching Philosophy and Player Development 39:25 Coaching in Denmark and Transitioning to High School 45:00 Discipline and Team Culture 50:36 Upcoming Book and Final Thoughts Send us Fan Mail

In this eighth episode of 'Winning Ways with the Washington State Football Coaches Association,' host Dan Teeter interviews Coach Jeff Nelson, a remarkable figure in eight-man football. Nelson's illustrious 36-year coaching career includes seven state championships as a head coach and an eighth as an assistant. His overall record as a head coach was 232 wins and 57 losses, a remarkable 80.3% winning percentage. The discussion covers his early coaching days, his teams' dominant records, strategies for maintaining success, and the nuances of eight-man football. Nelson shares memories of standout seasons, including a four-peat championship run, and hilarious anecdotes like dealing with a broken-down bus. He also highlights the importance of discipline, commitment, and developing relationships in coaching. Overall, the episode serves as an in-depth exploration of Nelson's philosophy and contributions to high school football in Washington State. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview 00:54 Coach Nelson's Coaching Journey 03:38 Growing Up and Early Influences 09:53 Building a Winning Culture 11:57 Managing Multi-Sport Athletes 17:02 Offensive and Defensive Strategies 27:36 The 49-Game Winning Streak 31:20 Reflecting on a Memorable Game 31:38 Seahawks Throwback and Local Talent 32:24 Honored by the Seahawks: Raising the 12th Man Flag 35:24 Record-Breaking Championship Games 45:35 Balancing Records and Player Safety 53:55 Texas Chainsaw Massacre Bus Breakdown 57:01 Impactful Assistants and Coaching Advice 59:38 Final Thoughts and Parting Advice Send us Fan Mail

In the 7th episode of 'Winning Ways,' hosted by the Washington State Football Coach Association, Coach Tom Tri of Lake Stevens High School shares his extensive experience and insights. The episode starts with host Dan Teeter giving a call to action for coaches to join the association and the benefits of membership. Coach Tri, with 21 years as head coach, discusses his team's impressive achievements, including league championships, a 62-game WESCO league winning streak, and back-to-back state titles in 2022 and 2023. Tri emphasizes the importance of the offseason program, explaining how it runs from January through August with a focus on strength, speed & agility, and team camps. The coach also discusses the transition from a traditional I-formation offense to an adaptive spread offense influenced by the Tony Franklin system. He highlights the adjustments made over the years and how the RPO (Run Pass Option) was integrated to suit different quarterback styles. Tri also touches on recruiting challenges and the changing landscape due to NIL and transfer rules, expressing concerns about maintaining community and loyalty within the sport. Tri underscores the significance of trust and loyalty in building a successful coaching staff and the value of team chemistry. He concludes with advice for coaches on the importance of delegation and maintaining a united front.  00:00 Introduction and Membership Benefits 01:09 Coach Tom Tri's Impressive Career 03:37 Offseason Training and Seven-on-Seven Tournaments 10:07 Strength and Conditioning Program 15:28 Evolution of Offensive Strategy 31:01 New Concepts and Simplification 32:09 Recruitment Stories and Challenges 35:11 Coaching the Army All-American Game 37:31 Impact of NIL and Transfer Rules 42:19 Building a Strong Youth Program 48:24 Core Principles and Turning Points 53:26 Advice for Coaches and Closing Thoughts Send us Fan Mail

The sixth episode of 'Winning Ways,' presented by the Washington State Football Coach Association, features a conversation with legendary coach Bob Ames. Host, Dan Teeter discusses Ames’ profound impact during his 56-year coaching career, primarily at Meridian High School, where he achieved record-breaking success. Highlights include Ames’ personal and professional journey, coaching strategies, memorable games, humorous anecdotes, and the importance of family. The episode commemorates the upcoming dedication of Meridian High School's football field as Bob Ames Field, honoring Ames' contributions to the community and sports. Ames shares insights into his coaching philosophies, the significance of weight training, and the challenges of building a winning team. The conversation reflects on the transformative impact of coaching on student-athletes and the enduring legacy Ames leaves behind. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview 01:01 Bob Ames' Coaching Achievements 02:20 Family and Personal Background 03:30 Coaching Family Members 04:49 Working at the Border 06:56 Teaching and Driver's Ed Stories 08:00 Innovative Training Methods 08:50 Hall of Fame and Athletic Background 12:01 Creative Roster Sizes and Media Interactions 16:27 Field Dedication and Coaching Honors 18:18 Assistant Coaches and Mentorship 22:06 Rivalries and Memorable Games 24:54 1999 Undefeated State Championship Team 28:13 Offensive and Defensive Philosophies 30:34 Early Success and Team Dynamics 31:06 Facing Competitive Teams 34:17 Coaching Philosophy and Influences 39:01 Taking the Job at Meridian Send us Fan Mail

In this fifth episode of Winning Ways, featured by the Washington State Football Coaches Association, host Dan Teeter interviews Tom Bainter, the head coach at Bothell High School, who shares his extensive football journey and coaching philosophy. Coach Bainter's impressive career includes achievements such as 225 overall wins, multiple Kingco championships, and a state championship in 2014. He was inducted into the WSFCA Hall of Fame in 2023. Bainter discusses his coaching strategies, particularly focusing on player development, the importance of instilling grit and perseverance, the impact of tiered league systems, and challenges faced due to COVID-19. He also emphasizes the significance of community involvement in fostering football pride and the lessons football imparts on life skills. The episode underscores his dedication to the sport, his players, and his philosophy of coaching football to build better individuals. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:13 Coach Bainter's Background and Achievements 04:32 Personal Stories and Influences 06:45 Coaching Philosophy and Approach 17:43 Balancing Football and Family Life 22:25 Memorable Games and Experiences 31:00 Community Engagement and Support 31:20 Building Community Pride in Bothell 31:46 Youth Program Integration and Inclusivity 33:15 Celebrating Achievements and Community Involvement 35:56 Challenges in Tiered Systems and Inclusivity 36:42 Impact of COVID on School Sports 43:10 Handling School District Splits 52:37 Reflections on Coaching and Success 57:28 Concluding Thoughts and Acknowledgements Send us Fan Mail

Episode four of 'Winning Ways' features an interview with Coach Steve Gervais, a renowned football coach in Washington state with over 250 career victories and 6 state championships. The host highlights Gervais' unique achievements, including being one of only two coaches in state history who took three different high schools to state championship games, (Dave Ward is the other). Gervais shares insights from his extensive coaching career, including his transition to a spread offense in the 1990s, experiences at different school levels, and his brief stint in Division 1 college football with the Washington Huskies. He also discusses his post-coaching venture, the Steve Gervais Academy (SGA), which helps develop young athletes. The episode underscores the importance of relationships, adaptability, and continual learning in achieving coaching success. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:41 Coach Gervais' Achievements and Background 07:04 Early Coaching Career and Lessons Learned 12:05 Adopting the Spread Offense 16:47 Offensive Strategies and Concepts 24:52 Building Commitment and Relationships 30:33 Supportive Parents and Successful Seasons 32:07 Big Kahuna Passing Tournament 33:05 Coaching at Different School Levels 36:35 Weekend Coaching Responsibilities 39:14 Transition to College Coaching 45:44 Founding the Steve Gervais Academy 50:55 Memorable Coaching Stories 54:38 The Impact of Coaching on Relationships Send us Fan Mail

In the third episode of 'Winning Ways' presented by the Washington State Football Coaches Association, host Dan Teeter talks with two legendary high school football coaches, Sid Otton and Monte Kohler. The discussion highlights their illustrious careers, achievements, and shared title as the winningest coaches in Washington State history with 394 wins each. The coaches reflect on their coaching philosophies, transitions in their careers, and the evolution of high school football. They share poignant and inspirational stories about players and the significant impact of supportive families and assistant coaches. The podcast also touches on the future of football in Washington State and offers advice for current coaches. 00:00 Introduction to Winning Ways 01:51 Celebrating Legendary Coaches 02:16 Join the Washington State Football Coaches Association 03:30 Coach Otton Reflects on His Career 05:49 Coach Kohler's Perspective 10:21 Early Coaching Years and Challenges 14:57 Building a Winning Culture 28:38 Faith and Football 30:49 Family and Support Systems 33:27 Memorable Coaching Moments and Lessons 36:28 Family and Coaching Legacy 40:14 Inspirational Stories of Players 45:25 Reflections on Coaching Careers 56:09 Advice for Current and Future Coaches 01:03:36 Final Thoughts and Farewell Send us Fan Mail

WSFCA Winning Ways: from high school coach, to college head coach. Spencer Crace, Head Coach at George Fox University In this episode of 'Winning Ways with Washington State Football Coaches Association', host Dan Teeter interviews Spencer Crace, the head football coach at George Fox University. The conversation covers Spencer's journey from playing high school football for his father to coaching at various institutions, including Stadium High School, Sumner High School, and Pacific Lutheran University. Spencer shares his insights on the value of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the challenges of coaching with family, and the balancing act between personal life and coaching responsibilities. Spencer also provides advice for high school coaches and athletes on navigating the recruiting process and discusses his vision and strategy for building a successful football program at George Fox University. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview 01:16 Spencer Crace's Background and Career 04:35 Coaching Philosophy and Family Influence 09:06 Transition from High School to College Coaching 22:38 Balancing Coaching and Family Life 26:48 Living the George Fox Values 27:10 Shoutout to Coach McAdams 28:15 Building a Strong Coaching Staff 33:04 Recruiting Insights and Advice 41:48 Defining and Achieving Success 44:49 Reflecting on Coaching and Identity 47:32 Final Thoughts and George Fox Pitch Send us Fan Mail

Winning Ways: A Conversation with H.S. Football Coaching Legend Wiley Allred In the inaugural episode of the Winning Ways podcast, presented by the Washington State Football Coaches Association, host Dan Teeter interviews legendary Royal High School football coach Wiley Allred. The discussion delves into Wiley's illustrious career, which includes 12 state titles, and explores his coaching philosophy, team management, and the significance of community support. The episode highlights Wiley's focus on fostering selflessness among players and maintaining a balanced approach to practice and game preparation. Additionally, they discuss the importance of providing a voice for football coaches in Washington state to influence positive changes in the sport. 00:00 Introduction to Winning Ways Podcast 00:51 Washington State Football Coaches Association Membership Benefits 03:16 Introducing Coach Wiley Allred 05:20 Coach Allred's Journey and Achievements 08:47 Balancing Farming and Coaching 10:09 Community and Family Support 11:58 Building a Successful Football Program 12:52 Youth Programs and Recruitment 16:30 Practice Schedule and Coaching Philosophy 22:46 Offensive and Defensive Strategies 26:58 Handling Success and Sportsmanship 29:23 Managing Game Dynamics and Empathy for Opponents 30:37 Roster Size and Weight Room Participation 33:39 Interactions with Officials 37:28 Humorous and Inspirational Stories 44:21 Selflessness and Team Success 49:41 Future of Football in Washington State Send us Fan Mail