1. What were your earlier days like as a player, and when you decided to become a coach?
“I played for a tiny Illinois high school (Farmer-City) and threw shot and discus in track. Excelled at both sports in high school, but honestly the competition wasn’t that strong.  I played offensive tackle and linebacker starting both ways for four years. I got a scholarship to Eastern and lettered four years as defensive tackle. I threw for the track team for two years before focusing on football. I was two years All-Conference and a 1988 All-American. I didn’t decide to become a coach until a couple years after graduating from Eastern Illinois University. I decided to put my degree to use, and coaching just came with it.”

2. What’s your time at Apopka been like, and how long have you been coaching there?
“I have been at Apopka three times since 1999. I was defensive coordinator 1999-2002 and 2012-16 and  head coach the last two seasons. I have been to five state title games at Apopka and won three since 2001, lost last year as head coach. I love the place because the kids are tough and play hard. The community support is strong but not overly involved, which is a good thing. I have a great coaching staff and a bunch of longtime friends on staff.”

3. What district do you play in, and how is this season going for your team?
“We are in District 4 Region 1 of 8A. COVID has made this a tough season. Our offseason strength and conditioning set us apart from other teams, and we didn’t get much of that this year. We are 4-2 with the losses being by 1 point each. Everyone in Florida makes the playoffs this season, so we are focused on improvement and getting healthy come playoff time. It’s one of those crazy years when we can beat anyone, but anyone could beat us.“

4. Beyond ?
“Brandon Merriweather, a Miami defensive back and 10-year pro from Apopka. T’sharvan Bell, an Auburn defensive back and national champ, Osceola Kowboy and 2007 state finalist. Jalen Carter, an Apopka defensive tackle and freshman at UGA. Chandler Cox, an Auburn and Dolphin fullback from Apopka.”