Verlon Dorminey is named the ITG Next 2022 Northeast Florida Fall Coach of the Year, presented by Wolfson Children’s Hospital, Baptist Health, and the Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute.
After 31 years coaching high school football for Trinity Christian Academy, Dorminey stillfeels the passion, excitement, and “jitters” before each and every game. He manages to stay humble while praising God, his players, and staff.
“All of this has not happened because of me; it has happened because of the people around me… I have been surrounded by great people,” said Dorminey.
Dorminey finds great joy in the connections he has fostered during his time at Trinity Christian. A true veteran, he values being able to have connections with players even long after they have graduated. He has even coached “kids of kids,” guiding the children of those who once played for him.
“The most gratification I get now, after 31 years, is that two/thirds of the staff played for me,” said Dorminey.
“Team First.People Always.”#CultureMatters?? pic.twitter.com/k5HOcjqWn1
— ColinHurley (@ColinHurley) December 16, 2021
The Conquerors recently won the FHSAA state championship game for the 2020-2021 season, Class 2A. This brings them to a total of nine state championship titles. The team started off well, winning five straight games in the first half of the season. They then faced some struggles, losing four out of the last five. Nonetheless, they fought through that rough patch of the season and made it to the playoffs.
“To see them get through that part of the season and then hit the playoffs as well as they did, to see them overcome struggles and be able to win, that’s big,” said Dorminey.
Dorminey made history as the first Jacksonville-area high school to win three consecutive football state championship titles in 2016 when the team won their third straight Class 3A Florida State Championship. He is no stranger to back-to-back championship wins.
When the team advanced to state finals late last year, Dorminey was unable to attend due to health complications. He was still praised by the players who attributed their success to his leadership. His presence was still felt.
His many years of coaching have provided him with immense wisdom. Dorminey is very strong in his faith. It is easy for him to stay with Trinity Christian due to the values of the school. He references a sign in the school that reads “Keep God First.” Dorminey does exactly that as he is a trailblazer with his mentorship.
CHAMPS! @FHSAA 2A state champions, @TC_Jax_Football for the second consecutive year (last year in 3A). @w_treyaun with 173 yards rushing 2 TDS. Darnell Rodgers 173 yards rushing and 3 TDS #hotbedworld pic.twitter.com/JjbQwFgem6
— Football Hotbed (@FootballHotbed) December 10, 2021
“Understand how important your faith is in Christ,” said Dorminey. “There will be struggles every day. Figure out how to deal with them.”
When giving advice to young football players working hard to improve, he said: “It’s a struggle. Stay with it. Work hard. Football won’t last forever.”
For Dorminey, it is important to be just as excellent off the field. He has shown this greatness through his impact from breaking records to inspiring countless individuals with lessons they will carry throughout the rest of their lives.
