Gridiron Strategies profiles the two winningest football coaches in American history in this issue. J.T. Curtis, the head coach at John Curtis Christian High School, has an overall record – since 1969 – of 519-54-6. This includes a playoff game record of 160-15, a 24-7 record in state championship games, and arguably a more impressive record of 15-3 vs. out of state opponents. At 66, Curtis is the only coach the school has had. His only losing season was his first when the team went 0-10. This past fall, his Patriots finished 13-0 and were ranked #1 by the USA Today Prep Poll at the conclusion of the season.
John McKissick, the head coach of Summerville High School (SC), is still going strong at 86. He has been the Summerville head coach since 1952 and recently completed his 60th season on the sidelines. McKissick has an overall record of 602-147-13 with 10 state championships and 33 regional titles. Summerville has had seven undefeated seasons and only two losing years.
Both Curtis and McKissick agree that there are a number of factors they consider critical to have a consistently successful program:
1. A strong and supportive administration.
2. A committed staff of assistant coaches.
3. Understanding that you are teaching kids the proper techniques and fundamentals of the game every day.
4. Caring for each athlete both on and off the field.
5. Adapting to the athlete of each generation.
6. Practicing detailed reps daily of your specific offense and defense.
7. Having a thorough, year-round strength and conditioning program.
This issue of GS also includes an offensive clinic on the “Three-Step Passing Game,” a defensive article on “Defending 4 Verticals with 3-Deep Coverage,” and a special teams feature on “Adding Excitement to Your Punt Return.”
As always, we welcome your feedback and hope you enjoy this issue of GS.
Sincerely,
Rex Lardner
Managing Editor