4 Questions With Buchholz Football Head Coach Mark Whittemore
We spoke with Buchholz football head coach Mark Whittemore about his history with the Bobcats.
Q: Coach, I think it’s fair to say that you are a true Buchholz guy, right?
A: Absolutely! I am an alumni, and I played football here as a wide receiver. I was fortunate to win a state championship as a player and then became an assistant coach before becoming head coach in 2012. 25 years total coaching at Buchholz. So yes, I’m a Buchholz kid through and through for sure.
Q: Your family has also been raised as a Buchholz family. Tell us about that.
A: Yes, my wife Missy played volleyball here, and I have two sons, Luke and Trent, that played at Buchholz and have since graduated. I’ve got one that plays for me now. His name is Creed, and he is our starting quarterback. I have a sixth-grader, Andrew, who I’m sure will follow in the family tradition here at Buchholz. He’s a really good golfer.
Q: Coach, you guys made a good run last year, advancing deep into the playoffs. What about this year’s team? How are things looking?
A: Yes, we made it to the third round of the playoffs last year and lost in overtime to a really good Niceville team. As far as this year’s team, I think we have a perennial playoff team here at Buchholz. We’ve got several guys coming back from last year, and I think we’ve got a good shot to be back in the mix this season.
Q: So, you’ve been at it for a while and have enjoyed a lot of success as a player and as a coach. How long do you plan to keep coaching? Any plans to start slowing down, Coach?
A: Oh no, I plan to keep coaching as long as I can. It keeps me young. Also, I really enjoy affecting lives and seeing these young men here at Buchholz thrive. I will keep doing what I’m doing for as long as I can!
Written by: Phil Jones
