Each Wednesday, TCNJ Athletics will profile a coach from one of its programs. Today's question and answer is with the head coach of the TCNJ football team,
Casey Goff. Goff has been at the helm of the program for the last three seasons. He has coached his players to 22 All-NJAC honors, five all-American honors, and three all-region honors. Â
You are now entering your fourth year at TCNJ. What initially drew you to the college?
- The reputation. Most people in athletics know of the proud history in college sports and the reputation as one of the best in the country academically. That got my attention, and stepping foot on campus sold me that this is where I wanted to be.
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What is it about TCNJ that sets itself apart from other colleges and athletic programs?
- When it comes to the institution, it's the preparation and the blueprint. To have a school of this size give the one-on-one attention to its students directly contributes to their success after they leave. Our kids are ready. Athletically, 89 national championships speaks for itself. We have driven kids who are focused on their goals. Goals in the classroom and goals on the field, the court, the track, the pool, the mat. We have special kids that understand what investment means and looks like.
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What are some of your favorite memories and moments from your coaching career?
- That's hard to narrow down. I get to go do what I love every day. I cherish every moment. I'm in a fortunate place where I wake up and love Mondays. Not a lot of people get to say that. Every moment is a positive memory.
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What is the biggest challenge you have faced in your career?
- Every year, every place, every player, and every opponent all present their own challenge. Challenge is what makes the job the job. You can't quantify that. Challenge is just part of being a coach.
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Who are some of the people who have helped you the most in your coaching career?
- I have been fortunate to work a lot of places and work for some amazing coaches. My greatest growth period easily came while working at Washington & Jefferson College with Mike Sirianni. I grew up in those three years. We had some intense moments during my time there, and I came out the other side a better person and a better coach. I will always be grateful to Coach Sirianni for the time I spent there. Now, I also met my wife during that time, so that certainly had a huge impact on me as well.
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Outside of coaching, what would people find interesting about your day-to-day life?
- I have three dogs and a three-year old. My life consists of trying to be the best husband, father and coach I can be. That takes up most of my day. I'm a horrible golfer, so I still like to hit the weight room as an old man as well.
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Is there anything you would like to say to all of the student-athletes that you have coached?
- I hope I have had even just a fraction of the impact on you that you have had on me. So many memories and so many good kids. It's been an honor to be in this business.Â
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The Extra Point- (Question asked from head men's swimming & diving coach David Dow in last week's coach profile)- How have you continued to learn and grow as a coach over your career?
- One of the biggest ways I've learned is through the kids I've coached. Everything evolves, everything constantly changes. These kids teach you to adapt and grow. I think everyone who coaches takes advantage of their connections. Coaches read the articles, they watch film, they talk to other coaches, but what really helps us learn and grow are the kids we coach. Â
Goff's Extra Point Question- What drives you to be better as a coach and person?
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