2025 Convention Recap | Tim Goodwin, Marion Local HS | Great Teachers = Great Coaches
May 5, 2025
Tim Goodwin has been the head football coach at Marion Local High School since 1999, compiling a 323-48 record and leading the team to 14 state championships, the most in Ohio history. In 2011, he also became the High School Principal and serves as a Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) Huddle Leader. Known for his focus on family values and leadership, Goodwin is currently on a 62-game win streak and has guided Marion Local to a 14-0 record in 2024. His commitment to excellence and his community-centered philosophy have earned him widespread respect.
Coach Tim Goodwin dives into the connection between great teaching and building a successful football program. Drawing from his experience as a high school principal, he explains how observing outstanding classroom teachers has enhanced his coaching style. This clip offers valuable insight for high school coaches, emphasizing how strong classroom practices can directly impact team culture, communication, and player relationships on the field.
Great Teaching = Great Coaching
Set Clear Expectations
- Both students and athletes should know exactly what is expected of them
- Consistency is key — routine creates reliability and accountability
Work Alongside
- Be present in the process, not just above it
- Support players through highs and lows — that’s how trust is built
Encourage Higher-Level Thinking
- Move beyond memorization — promote understanding
- Use the “Playbook vs. Notebook” mindset
- Build your playbook from what has worked, not just tradition
- Let it evolve through thoughtful evaluation
Create a Culture of Feedback
- Foster two-way communication
- Be honest; deliver hard truths with care
- Read the room; always know your team’s emotional and mental state
- Empower player leaders who can help you gauge the pulse of the team
Stack the Days
- Progress is built one solid day at a time
- Model intellectual curiosity both on and off the field
- Show interest in learning beyond football
- Inspire players to do the same
For more information about the AFCA, visit www.AFCA.com. For more interesting articles, check out The Insider and subscribe to our weekly email.
If you are interested in more in-depth articles and videos, please become an AFCA member. You can find out more information about membership and specific member benefits on the AFCA Membership Overview page. If you are ready to join, please fill out the AFCA Membership Application.
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Tim Goodwin has been the head football coach at Marion Local High School since 1999, compiling a 323-48 record and leading the team to 14 state championships, the most in Ohio history. In 2011, he also became the High School Principal and serves as a Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) Huddle Leader. Known for his focus on family values and leadership, Goodwin is currently on a 62-game win streak and has guided Marion Local to a 14-0 record in 2024. His commitment to excellence and his community-centered philosophy have earned him widespread respect.
Coach Tim Goodwin dives into the connection between great teaching and building a successful football program. Drawing from his experience as a high school principal, he explains how observing outstanding classroom teachers has enhanced his coaching style. This clip offers valuable insight for high school coaches, emphasizing how strong classroom practices can directly impact team culture, communication, and player relationships on the field.
Great Teaching = Great Coaching
Set Clear Expectations
- Both students and athletes should know exactly what is expected of them
- Consistency is key — routine creates reliability and accountability
Work Alongside
- Be present in the process, not just above it
- Support players through highs and lows — that’s how trust is built
Encourage Higher-Level Thinking
- Move beyond memorization — promote understanding
- Use the “Playbook vs. Notebook” mindset
- Build your playbook from what has worked, not just tradition
- Let it evolve through thoughtful evaluation
Create a Culture of Feedback
- Foster two-way communication
- Be honest; deliver hard truths with care
- Read the room; always know your team’s emotional and mental state
- Empower player leaders who can help you gauge the pulse of the team
Stack the Days
- Progress is built one solid day at a time
- Model intellectual curiosity both on and off the field
- Show interest in learning beyond football
- Inspire players to do the same
For more information about the AFCA, visit www.AFCA.com. For more interesting articles, check out The Insider and subscribe to our weekly email.
If you are interested in more in-depth articles and videos, please become an AFCA member. You can find out more information about membership and specific member benefits on the AFCA Membership Overview page. If you are ready to join, please fill out the AFCA Membership Application.
