GHSF Daily asked Georgia head coaches to answer these four questions. We'll report from a different head coach each day.
Dean Fabrizio, Lee County
1. What is the real difference-maker in winning and losing in Georgia high school football? "There are many things that go into this. Obviously, talent level is a huge factor. Being able to assemble strong assistant coaches is another big factor. Administrative and community support are others. Tradition is another one that is big. Facilities play a role as well."
2. Which player that you've coached is memorable mostly for his character or inspiration? "I have been fortunate to coach many, many great high-character kids that I could list here. One that comes to mind is former QB Stephen Collier, who was just such a great player and leader for us in addition to being a 4.0 student. He graduated from Ohio State in two and a half years and is now in graduate school there. He exemplified what a student-athlete is."
3. What is the best atmosphere for a high school game that you've experienced away from home? "Any of the atmospheres in Region 1 in South Georgia could be listed here. Lowndes, Colquitt County, Tift County, Valdosta, Coffee are all just magnificent places to play a high school football game."
4. As a player or coach at any level, which game do you wish you could play again? "The 2002 state championship game in Florida when I was an assistant at Edgewater High School in Orlando. We scored to take the lead with under a minute left and thought we had won the state title. Norland out of Miami was able to connect on a Hail Mary pass on us as time expired. It was just such a big swing of emotions."
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