Coaches Corner: Brandon Rios
Brandon Rios is the head coach of the first-ever Fox Chapel Area flag football team, which joined dozens of squads that formed this year across the state. The team picked up its first section victory, a 21-8 win over Seneca Valley, in the season opener and currently sports a 10-3 record.
Rios is a player-turned-coach who brings his enthusiasm, energy, and knowledge to a diverse group of players excited to play football and make school history.
Recently, coach Rios shared his thoughts and insights.
Q: What is your background?
A: “I grew up in the Pittsburgh area and graduated from Shaler Area High School in 1996. I attended the University of Southern Calfornia (USC) for my undergraduate studies and began working in the Fox Chapel Area School District in 2008. I have been a social studies teacher at the high school for the past 18 years.
Q: What is your personal and coaching history?
A: “I played football in high school and, since coming to the Fox Chapel Area, have coached football in various capacities and levels, from middle school to high school.”
Q: How did it come about that you are coaching this historical flag football team?
A: “I have a passion for teaching, coaching, and football. I had heard that Fox Chapel Area was considering starting a girls flag football program last spring. The thought of coaching football and helping start a new program at the school piqued my interest. When the job was posted, I talked it over with my family and decided to apply.”
Q: As a first-year team, what are the most important things you want the girls to conquer?
A: “To be honest, for some of them, this is their first time playing the sport. In a lot of ways, they’ve already conquered the biggest obstacle – having the courage to try something new. Now I see it as my job to help them keep growing as athletes and football players.”
Q: What is the most unique thing about this group of players?
A: “We have a very diverse group of girls, from freshmen to seniors. They come to the team with a variety of athletic backgrounds and experiences. It has been fun to see them interact, work together as a team, and support one another.”
Q: In addition to coaching the flag football team, will you continue to help with other teams in the district?
A: “I already help out with the varsity football team in the fall and will assist the team with filming the games on Friday nights.”
Q: How would you describe yourself in three words?
A: “Positive, focused, and understanding.”
Q: Do you have a favorite quote that you incorporate into coaching?
A: “Success is peace of mind, which is a direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing you did your best to become the best you are capable of becoming.”
Q: How would you describe your coaching style?
A: “My coaching style is positive and process-oriented. For example, going into the game against Seneca Valley, our message to the team was simple: enjoy the moment. We told them how proud we were of their hard work and encouraged them to get out there, compete, and ‘make a moment’ for themselves and the team.”
Q: Do you have a theme or saying for this season?
A: “Compete, learn, understand, and grow together."