On this week’s episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we sit down with Widener Head Coach, Mike Barainyak. In this conversation, Coach Barainyak discusses his passion for the game of football, how he strives to serve his players, and the importance of being where your feet are. Coach Barainyak is in his sixth season at Widener and was a member of the 2020 AFCA 35 Under 35 class.

Follow Coach Barainyak and Widener Football on social media here:

@Coach_Barry & @Widener_FB

Show Notes:

1:05 Having a passion for the game since childhood, coaching guys that you played with, and wearing many hats as a coach at a small school.

22:32 Opportunities to learn at different levels of football, coaching JV as a young coach, and stepping out of your comfort zone and expanding your knowledge.

46:16 Returning to Pennsylvania to coach at Widener, becoming the Head Coach at Widener, and experience in the AFCA 35 Under 35.

This week on Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we sit down with Danny Wuerffel from the Wuerffel Foundation as he reflects on his playing career, shares his passion for community service, and talks about the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy and its collaboration with the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. A former Heisman Trophy winner and National Champion at the University of Florida, Danny Wuerffel has devoted his life to serving others and honoring the service contributions of current college football players.

Follow Danny Wuerffel and the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy on social media here:

@DannyWuerffel & @WuerffelTrophy

1:05 Reflecting on your successful playing career and the coaches that impacted your career.

8:30 Getting involved with Desire Street Ministries and becoming the Executive Director following Hurricane Katrina.

16:55 Establishing the Wuerffel Trophy and partnering with the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team.

On this week’s episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we sit down with Southern Illinois Defensive Coordinator, Antonio James. In this conversation, Coach James discusses getting his start at the high school level, navigating job changes, and learning from every experience he has. Coach James is in his third season at Southern Illinois and has helped lead the Salukis to a 2-1 start to their 2024 season.

Follow Coach James and Southern Illinois Football on social media here:

@2_adjames & @SIU_Football

1:05 Getting started at the high school level, emphasizing the basics at every level, and opportunity to jump to the college level.

22:36 Being confident in your teaching ability, navigating staff and job changes as a young coach, and opportunity at Morgan State.

54:30 Learning from each experience, coaching away from the spotlight, and opportunity at Southern Illinois.