David T. Schlendorf: Coaching Youth Football in America

David T. Schlendorf is a community-focused leader whose career has spanned youth sports leadership, faith-based volunteer work, law, project management, and public service. From 2005 to 2014, David T. Schlendorf served as president of the Toms River Youth Football League in New Jersey, overseeing programs for hundreds of young athletes ages five to 14 and coordinating coach selection, league development, and scheduling across multiple towns. His dedication to youth sports earned him recognition as American Youth Football Volunteer of the Year in 2015. Schlendorf has also held project management roles at Hanlon Sculpture Studio, first part-time beginning in 2010 and later full-time through 2025, where he directed logistics and contract strategy nationwide. His decades of service reflect the same qualities of mentorship and integrity explored in this look at what it takes to be a youth football coach in America today.

Coaching youth football in the United States involves more than teaching children how to throw, catch, tackle, or score touchdowns; it is a rewarding role that combines mentorship, leadership, education, and community involvement. While the position comes with challenges and long hours, many coaches find the experience deeply fulfilling because they help young players develop skills and important qualities that will help them into adulthood.

For most youth football coaches, the season begins long before the first game. Coaches spend weeks planning practices, organizing equipment, learning league rules, and communicating with parents. They create practice schedules that balance skill development with conditioning while ensuring players stay engaged and motivated.

Players must learn proper throwing mechanics, catching techniques, blocking, tackling, running routes, and offensive and defensive formations.

Safety is always the top priority. Coaches emphasize proper tackling techniques and encourage players to avoid dangerous habits that could lead to injuries. Modern youth football places a strong emphasis on reducing head impacts and promoting safe playing methods.

Patience is one of the greatest qualities a successful youth football coach can possess. Children learn at different speeds, and not every player enters the season with the same athletic ability.

Some athletes quickly understand plays and techniques, while others require repeated instruction and encouragement. Great coaches recognize these differences and adapt their teaching styles to help every player improve.

Beyond football skills, coaches become mentors for young athletes. They teach discipline by encouraging players to arrive on time, work hard during practice, and respect teammates, officials, and opponents. They also emphasize accountability by helping players understand that everyone contributes to the team’s success.

Communication plays a major role in coaching youth football. Coaches regularly interact with parents, league officials, assistant coaches, and players.

Parents naturally want the best experience for their children, so coaches must clearly explain playing time, practice expectations, and team goals. Maintaining positive relationships with families helps create a supportive environment where young athletes can thrive.

Practice sessions are often energetic and demanding. Coaches design drills that improve agility, speed, strength, coordination, and football intelligence.

They must keep players focused while making practices enjoyable enough to maintain enthusiasm. Young athletes respond well to encouragement, positive reinforcement, and friendly competition, making the coach’s attitude a significant factor in the team’s overall morale.

Game days bring excitement and pressure. Coaches are responsible for making strategic decisions, managing substitutions, calling plays, and motivating players throughout the contest.

At the youth level, however, winning is not always the primary objective. Many coaches focus on player development, teamwork, and ensuring every child has an opportunity to participate and enjoy the experience.

One of the most rewarding aspects of youth coaching is witnessing personal growth. A player who struggled to catch a football early in the season may confidently make an important reception by the final game.

A shy child may develop leadership skills by encouraging teammates. Coaches often find these moments more meaningful than championships because they represent genuine progress and increased self-confidence.

The role also comes with challenges. Volunteer coaches often balance football responsibilities alongside full-time careers and family obligations.

Practices several evenings each week, weekend games, travel, and administrative duties require considerable time and dedication. Managing team dynamics can also be difficult, particularly when addressing playing time concerns, differing skill levels, or maintaining motivation after losses.

Despite these challenges, many coaches return season after season because of the relationships they build with players and families. Watching former athletes succeed in high school, college, or even simply become responsible adults provides a tremendous sense of accomplishment.

About David T. Schlendorf

David T. Schlendorf is a community-focused leader from Holladay, Utah, recognized for his contributions to youth sports, faith-based volunteer work, law, and project management. From 2005 to 2014, he served as president of the Toms River Youth Football League in New Jersey, earning American Youth Football Volunteer of the Year honors in 2015. He also held project manager roles at Hanlon Sculpture Studio from 2010 through 2025, directing logistics and contract strategy on major commissions nationwide.