Cliff Orange has always had the energy to brighten up a room, this spirit comes with an understanding of how to make a real difference in peoples lives. I have know Cliff for 10+ years, in that time I have seen many transformations: He cut off his long and dedicated dread-locks, he had a daughter, he has created an amazing family, and now he has embarked on a new and exciting path as one of the lead football coaches in a local youth program.

As I heard about what he was doing with some of the youth in his area, it struck a cord with me. While recently visiting Cliff in Minneapolis, we walked around Lake Calhoun- as he told me stories of how these kids were being directly affected by his role in their lives as their football coach. I thought to myself, this is one of the things that  is all about… just diving in and making a real difference. However you can. We hope you enjoy the interview:

Cliff what made you want to become a Football Coach? -Did you have any friends you knew who already were doing coaching?

I did know someone. A close friend of mine was getting into the program and was going to be coaching his sons up from kindergarten to sixth grade. He wanted me to be his assistant and explained that it would be a seven year commitment. I feel it is extremely important to be involved in my community and had been looking for a great opportunity to be involved with youth, so it was a no-brainer. One of the best decisions I’ve made. Shortly after, the Cobras were born.

What drew you into becoming a youth football coach, was there any specific time where you knew that is something that you wanted to do with your life?

I have been fortunate to have very positive male role models in my life. My dad wasn’t around when I was coming up, but I had some really cool guys to look up to. I didn’t know exactly what that meant to me until I had an idea of where I could have ended up, had they not been there to help me grow. As I got older, I knew that I wanted to be that for other young men. Whether they had a father or other men in their life, I wanted to be there for them in the same way. Coaching seemed like the perfect way to start.

Was it hard to get into? How did you prepare yourself for becoming a coach?

Unfortunately, the football program (and lots of other youth sports) had a hard time getting committed coaches at the time. All I had to do was meet with the director to let him know who I was and that I would commit to stay with “my” kids.

My preparations included researching how to teach the game to young children (so different) as opposed to middle or high school aged kids, deciding how much/what style to teach, talking with other coaches and parents who have the experience already, buying supplies/equipment/first aid kit (boo boos, y’know) and most importantly, stretching.

What was the hardest thing to overcome when becoming a new coach?

The hardest thing for me in the beginning, was constantly reminding myself of my role. In every way imaginable, I was teaching these young boys (and a few girls) how to be athletes. How to stand, crouch, run, tackle, fall, stretch, condition, follow directions, play safely and smart, sportsmanship…It was a lot to wrap my head around at first.

How many kids are on your team each year?

We average 20 to 24 players, usually. I like that size team, because we can assign each player a position and give them very specific coaching. We try to teach every player the functions of every position too. That way, if someone isn’t gelling where they are at, they can transition to a new position pretty smoothly. If someone can’t make a game for some reason, it’s good to know you have other options too.

What is the most rewarding part about being a youth football coach?

I don’t know if I can pinpoint THE most rewarding aspect of coaching. I do know that I get an enormous and overwhelming (not exaggerating) feeling of pride from watching them grow. As leaders, as members of their families and community, as athletes and into responsible, conscious young men. I really can’t imagine my life without my boys and our Cobra family.

 

If someone you knew wanted to get into becoming a coach how would you suggest that they start?

Look into what programs your parks or city has. The internet is a great tool for that. Talk to people who are currently involved in the sports or activities you are interested in. And go to games/practices to see what’s going on.

 

Do you watch a lot of football? Who is your favorite NFL team who is your favorite coach of all time?

I do watch a lot of football, yes. My favorite team is the Chicago Bears. Favorite coach, Ditka.

How can people support your football team?

People in the Brooklyn Center area can directly support by coming to games or participating in the BCYF program in some way. Liking our page on face book to stay up to date on what’s happening or congratulate/cheer on the boys.

Just search for Cobras Football, we’re the big purple cobra!

Thanks for the interview! We hope you guys have a great season this year!!!

You’re welcome. We are excited to get things started! Once we have a few games out of the way, we’ll report back to let you know how it’s going.

“Life is not what we make it, it is what makes us.” – Clifton Orange

Comments

comments