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
