Program Organization

365 Day Step by Step Four Phase Football Program and Organizational Plan



A successful year-round football program is characterized by a holistic approach to player development, emphasizing skill enhancement, physical conditioning, and team cohesion. With a dedicated coaching staff, tailored training regimens, and a focus on safety and well-being, this program prioritizes the long-term growth of athletes. Periodization ensures a well-structured year, allowing players to progress systematically from the offseason through the preseason and into the competitive season. The program nurtures leadership, mental resilience, and a positive team culture, extending its impact beyond the physical aspects of the sport. In a successful year-round football program, dedication, commitment, and a player-centered approach combine to create an environment where athletes thrive and excel, both on and off the field.




Running a successful year-round football program in college requires a involved approach that encompasses several key elements. First and foremost, it's important to have a dedicated coaching staff with a deep understanding of the game, modern coaching techniques, and a strong commitment to player development. In the college environment, player safety and well-being should be paramount, with comprehensive injury prevention measures and medical support in place. Periodization of training is essential, with structured off-season, preseason, and in-season phases designed to enhance skills, physical conditioning, and game strategies. This planning should be adaptable to cater to individual player needs, considering the diverse positions and skill sets on the team. Furthermore, college football programs should provide a well-rounded experience, integrating academic support, life skills training, and community involvement to prepare student-athletes for success beyond the gridiron.


In addition, effective communication between coaches, players, and support staff is critical. Regular film study and analysis can help players grasp game tactics, make informed decisions, and continuously improve. Also maintaining a positive team culture and fostering leadership within the squad are vital components of success. Successful college football programs should also seek opportunities for competitive engagement, such as intercollegiate games and showcases. Ultimately, a thriving year-round college football program combines rigorous training, comprehensive player support, a commitment to safety, and a focus on holistic player development to achieve success on and off the field starting with the offseason.


The offseason is a critically important phase in any football program. It's during this period that athletes have the opportunity to lay the foundation for their success in the upcoming season. While the football season itself is the time for competition, the offseason is when players can focus on individual skill development, physical conditioning, and team cohesion. It's a time for honing techniques, building strength and agility, and addressing weaknesses. Beyond the physical aspects, the offseason also plays a pivotal role in fostering team camaraderie and a positive culture. This is when leaders emerge, and players can strengthen their mental resilience and commitment to the sport. In essence, the offseason is where championships are won, as the hard work, dedication, and preparation put in during this period directly impact a team's performance when it matters most. Coaches also play a very important role in have a successful program year-round. Part of that is developing a bond with the athletes and recruiting has hard as you coach. Coaching can be challenging but anything worthwhile is. Coaches should be approachable and adaptable to new things and coaching styles. Successful coaches are those who can learn new skills, who are flexible enough to change old ways when change is needed, who can accept constructive criticism and who can critically evaluate themselves (Martens, R 2004).


Coaches play a pivotal role in shaping the success of an offseason in a football program. Their guidance, leadership, and expertise are instrumental in ensuring that players make the most of this critical phase. Coaches provide the necessary structure and direction for offseason training, setting clear goals and expectations for individual player development and team progress. They design tailored training programs that address the specific needs of different positions, emphasizing skill improvement, strength and conditioning, and mental toughness. Coaches also facilitate the development of a positive team culture, promoting accountability, teamwork, and leadership within the squad. Their influence extends beyond the physical aspects of training, as they provide mentorship and instill a sense of commitment and work ethic in their players. Ultimately, the impact of coaches on the offseason is instrumental in determining a football team's readiness and performance when the competitive season arrives. Also having a good relationship with the athletes will build a successful year round program.


Team building is another way to build a successful year-round program in football. In a college football program, team building begins from the moment players step onto the field. It involves building trust, camaraderie, and a shared sense of purpose among teammates. Players learn to communicate effectively, both on and off the field, and to work together seamlessly to achieve common goals. Team building activities such as trust exercises, group challenges, and community service initiatives help players develop a deeper understanding of one another, creating a sense of brotherhood that is crucial for success in a physically and mentally demanding sport like football.


Lastly, to have a successful year-round program everyone has to follow the lead of the head coach and his vision. Jerry Campbell said “There can only be one head coach. The policies and decisions I make affect the entire program and are made with one purpose in mind, and that is to win the Frontier Conference and National Championship.” The head coach serves as the team's chief strategist, decision-maker, and motivator, setting the overall vision, philosophy, and direction. Allowing the head coach to take the lead fosters consistency in coaching, strategy, and leadership, which is crucial for player development and team success. It also enables players to focus on their roles and responsibilities, trusting that there is a guiding force at the wheel. When players, assistant coaches, and support staff trust in the head coach's leadership, it creates a sense of purpose and cohesion that is essential for success in competitive sports. Ultimately, letting the head coach lead allows the team to work cohesively and maximize its potential.