Every successful team has a coach (or multiple) that devotes time, energy, and enthusiasm to the players. Coach Brian Harrington is an assistant football coach, track and field coach, as well as the coach for women’s basketball at FVHS.
He is known for creating an environment that values both discipline and collaboration, especially on the football field.
There are many ways assistant coaches support the head coach, as well as the team.
“I like to see myself as ‘Robin’ to Batman, Coach Hall. My main job is to reinforce the culture and vision of the head coach. My defensive scheme must complement our offense, our defensive emphasis is always to create turnovers thus get the ball back to the offense,” said Harrington.
Making a connection with any of the players is crucial to improving their performance. Embracing mistakes and progress is an important process to be better.
“My coaching philosophy starts with ‘Hard work pays off.’ I am constantly telling the players, ‘You get out, what you put in.’ I make an asserted effort to get to know them as people, not just football players,” said Harrington.
Trying to balance teaching players fundamentals while also keeping them motivated and confident is a constant challenge that requires patience, adaptability and strong communication skills.
“I give the same amount of effort in my coaching that I ask of my players in their effort. I think they understand that there is a method to my madness. The drills that we do everyday in practice are starting to show up on game day,” said Harrington.
At the end of the week, Harrington’s work is reflected in all the improvements and progress of the team and players individually.
Harrington said, “Seeing the hard work Mondays through Thursdays pay off on Fridays with three wins in a row. I am very demanding in practice, and the players have responded very well.”
Harrington’s dedication shows that success is built not only on strategy but also on relationships and trust. His commitment to hard work, discipline and player growth continues to shape FVHS athletics on and off the field.
