New head football Coach Loran Cooley is preparing for his first season at Baldwin. He sat down with the Purbalite to discuss his experiences as a coach and player and his expectations to turn the program around. To hear the complete interview with Cooley, visit https://purbalite.podbean.com.

How were you introduced to the game of football?

Cooley: I became intrigued at the age of 6 when I watched Walter Payton and the Chicago Bears with my dad.

What has coaching taught you?

“I learned how to deal with kids from all different areas. Whether it’s suburban or inner city, I know how to get the best out of my athletes.”

Who was your coaching mentor?

“Terry Smith. He was my wide receiver coach when I played at Duquesne. Over the years, we formed an unbreakable bond and he made me into the man I am today on and off the field.”

How do you manage your time between coaching and being a father?

“I come from a football-oriented family. My children’s lives revolve around the game. They always encourage me to be involved with the game.”

What needs to be done to stabilize Baldwin as a consistent playoff team?

“It starts with the community and developing a winning culture. We need to get the kids believing that we can compete and win.”

Do you model your style after anyone at the college or professional level?

“No one really. I have run a five wide-set and the next year ran a double tight set. I base my scheme on the personnel I have. No matter what, we will always play with extreme physicality and effort.”

What is the quarterback situation looking like early in the season?

“It’s too early to tell. There are still a lot of kids participating in spring sports, and we still have many summer workouts left at surrounding universities. We won’t determine a starter until Week One against Woodland Hills.”

With a small number of seniors, whom do you expect to step up as a leader this season?

“Early in our off-season training, junior Aaron Novak has caught my eye. He’s working his tail off and is truly leading by example.”

Coming from a winning culture at Clairton, how would you handle criticism from fans at Baldwin?

“My main focus always remains on the kids. I want to build a strong relationship with the community, but you can’t let the negativity get to you.”

What would you say to a potential player who is concerned about the risks of concussions?

“You can get a concussion playing any sports. I knew a person who became paralyzed sliding into home base. It’s just not a football issue, and you shouldn’t not play a sport just because you’re afraid to get injured.”

What is one event that changed your life in a positive way regarding football?

“It was quite fulfilling to see former players accomplish their dreams. I remember when some of them were in eighth grade, and it’s just amazing to see their development over the years.”

How was working with Monte Nicholson, and Demetrious Cox who joined NFL teams this off-season?

“I love seeing how the game of football developed a young man’s life. Football teaches discipline, structure, and commitment, and it’s rewarding to see my players apply it in whatever they pursue in their lives.”