What's Happening?
The NFL has announced the winners of the 2025 Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year Award, recognizing Dylen Smith of Palisades Charter High School in California and Dave Ettinger of Garden City
High School in New York. The award, named after the legendary coach Don Shula, honors high school football coaches who exemplify character, integrity, leadership, and dedication to their communities. Coach Smith, nominated by the Los Angeles Chargers, led his team through significant adversity after fires destroyed their facilities, achieving a perfect 10-0 season. Coach Ettinger, nominated by the New York Giants, guided his team to a 12-0 season, marking a dominant winning streak in New York State football history. Both coaches will receive financial support for their programs and will be honored at the 2026 Pro Bowl Games and Super Bowl LX.
Why It's Important?
This recognition highlights the critical role high school coaches play in shaping young athletes' lives, emphasizing values such as resilience, teamwork, and leadership. The award not only celebrates on-field success but also the positive impact these coaches have on their communities and players' personal development. By honoring these coaches, the NFL underscores its commitment to fostering youth sports and promoting the values of football beyond the professional level. The financial support provided to the winning programs will help sustain and enhance their operations, benefiting future generations of student-athletes.
What's Next?
The honored coaches, Smith and Ettinger, will be guests at the 2026 Pro Bowl Games and Super Bowl LX, where they will be formally recognized for their achievements. The NFL Foundation, in partnership with Jersey Mike’s, will continue to support high school football programs through initiatives like the Don Shula Award, aiming to inspire more coaches and players to uphold the values celebrated by this recognition. The ongoing support and visibility of such awards may encourage other schools and communities to invest in their sports programs, fostering a broader culture of excellence and character development in youth sports.
