The blog turns its attention to spring football and track and field. Today’s post is a visit with Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy head football coach Jonathan Gess, who found time to write a book, Demand Excellence, in between winning the last four consecutive Class A private state championships and nine straight region crowns.
Here he gives us his thoughts on why he wrote the book, going after five state titles and 10 region titles in a row, and the focus of this year’s spring practice session:
Class A Blog: What inspired you to write the book?
Jonathan Gess: I wrote it over the course of the years between 2013 and 2017 just writing down my philosophy in being a Christian football coach.
Blog: When did you complete it and how long did it take to write?
Gess: I completed it in 2017. Took me three years and then I added a little this summer before publishing it.
Blog: With everything you have on your plate, how did you find time to write it?
Gess: I'm a big believer in knowing exactly why you do what you do. Rather it be X's and O's or my life philosophy, I want a detailed plan. This book was about me identifying why I coach and how to coach with Christ at the forefront.
Blog: Your son is getting older and even playing flag football already. What are your thoughts on the declining number of boys participating in tackle football?
Gess: I think it's sad. In life many things are dangerous.
Football isn’t under attack. All things manly are under attack. I want to teach boys how to be strong men who love and cherish their wives and serve them—men who are present and loving fathers. And men who impact the community for good!
Blog: Have you thought about at what age you will let your son play?
Gess: Whenever he begs to play tackle. He will play tackle but I'm not concerned when.
Blog: You and your program have a chance to solidify your place in history as perhaps the most dominant program ever in Georgia, by winning a 10th consecutive region championship and a fifth consecutive state title this fall. What are your thoughts on that?
Gess: I think it's great we are in a position to do that but I don't get wrapped up in it. I just want to help these boys be there best. Win the day!
Blog: Finally, what will be the focus of spring practice?
Gess: The basics. We have a new QB to break in and need to find three solid linebackers.
Blog: When will you have it and will you play a scrimmage? If so, who will you play, where and when?
Gess: Yes, at Stockbridge, May 16 at 6:30 p.m.
Note: Gess’ book may be found here.
About the Author
