Coaching News
Sept 2, 2008

Coach Greag Thomas

Coaching Exp: Rose High School NC 
High School:  Charles B Aycock, Goldsboro NC
College: East Carolina University
Position at Choctaw:  Head Football Coach

Note: Coach Thomas led Rose High School to four straight NCHSAA 4-A state championships from 2003-2006.

Pre-season Interview with Coach Greg Thomas  
Date August 27, 2008

Question: What has been the biggest challenge coaching this new team?

Response: “I think the biggest thing is changing the mindset. You are a product of your environment. If you are accustomed to doing things a certain way, it doesn’t change overnight. To believe and understand what it takes to be successful and win, you will have to change some habits.”

Question: What have been some key areas of focus (workouts) in practices?

Response: “The key focus has been the physical part of practice and kids getting their bodies accustomed to practicing, repetition, and plays. We don’t have the depth that we have had in past, so the kids are doing more at practice.”

Questions: Reflecting from the beginning of Summer Heat to this point (the week of the Classic), what have the players learned? How well have they  
progressed?

Response: “I have been pleased with the kids’ efforts and willingness to do what is takes to be successful. It’s like a double edged sword because you are proud of the guys, but you are also trying to get rid of the bad habits. I am happy with the progress, but I know it will take time. I am pleased with the character of our players and their willingness to work.”

Questions: What can players, parents, teachers, and the community do to assist you in developing a successful football program at Choctawhatchee High School?

Response: “Players, parents, teachers, and the community can continue to be supportive. When coaches and parents know that they are trying hard, whatever the outcome, they can live with that. Without hustle or hard work, you begin to have problems. Coaching is like parenting. We are all in it together. We want them to be outstanding citizens, and we are doing it through the sport of football. The community has always been good supporting the athletes.”

Questions: What do you hope to accomplish in your first year as coach of the Choctawhatchee Indians?

Response: “My goals will always be the same. The #1 goal is to be district champions. I don’t set goals less than what everyone wants. Whether that happens or not, that’s the goal. Everything else comes after that.”

Question: What role will you and the coaches play in the continued development of the academic success of the team?

Response: “Every kid is in high school to get an education. No sport is more important than academics. We need to talk to players about this. The biggest problem with high school players is that they need to be in school every day. We will keep up with grades and progress reports making sure that they do what they have to in the classroom.”

Question: Describe the level of excitement from the players, parents, the community, and the coaches about the new season and a new era of  Choctawhatchee football?

Response: “Kids, coaches, and parents are really excited. We are at a place where pre-season is not fun. The players are ready to get the season started, and they are looking forward to the season.”