The mental toll that coaches feel when transitioning from being on the field to being on the sidelines can be draining or even stressful.

     Bryan Barker, the JV2 football, wrestling, and softball coach–having multiple years of experience as a coach and player–feels a familial connection to his teams. 

     “I love being a coach on the sidelines,” Barker said. “It’s so much different than when you’re a player. The emotional toll on it is a lot greater, in my opinion.” 

     Head football coach Brian Mehl originally planned to go into biology in college, but changed to education when he realized he might want to be a coach. 

     “I got into education because I was at that point in my college career,” Mehl said. “I realized that coaching was going to be a good option for me.” 

     High school coaches stereotypically gain little benefit from the effort they put into their teams, but Mehl thinks of his coaching as less of a job, stating, “Football never felt like work to me. It’s truly like a passion that I have.” 

     When it comes to player-coach relationships, Barker believes it’s important for them to know that he’s not only their mentor but also their supporter. Barker shows the team his appreciation and trust.

     “I tell kids flat out,” Barker said. “It doesn’t matter if it’s football, wrestling, or softball.” 

   Barker chooses to stay positive in many situations, even if it is a loss. 

     “Even in a loss, it’s not a loss,” Barker said. “It’s time to learn, we just got an extra opportunity to learn where we need to get better.”