In the first Texas Tigers Podcast of the 2023-24 athletic year, Adam P. Ledyard talks to East Texas Baptist University head football coach Calvin Ruzicka. Listen to what he has to say about becoming head coach, his team, who he knows in college football, and some of his favorite things to do.

TEXAS TIGER PODCAST - August 31, 2023

This is the first story in our "Home" series getting to know East Texas Baptist University coaches and student-athletes. Our first feature is on ETBU head football coach Calvin Ruzicka.

 

Get to Know Calvin Ruzicka

I originally came from a corporate background in pharmaceutical sales. I spent about 10 years in corporate America, but I never felt fulfilled. I always felt like there was something more I should be doing with my life. And that's when I realized that coaching and teaching was my true calling. I wanted to make a difference in the lives of young men and women, to mentor them and help them grow. So, I started teaching math and coaching multiple sports, but football was always my first love. It's the ultimate team sport, and I just couldn't stay away from it.
 

I had the opportunity to coach at various high schools, from small schools to larger ones. And one of the most impactful experiences was when I was at Cedar Hill High School. We had a coaching staff with a shared vision and values, led by current Texas Tech head coach, Joey McGuire. It was all about the kids, pushing them to be their best on and off the field, and showing them love. That's a lesson I carry with me to this day. 

When I came to ETBU, I knew that I wanted to continue that vision of family, mentorship, and discipleship. Our faith is the foundation of our program, and we use football as a platform to share our faith and help our players grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ. But it's not just about faith, we have four pillars - accountability, mental toughness, discipline, and selflessness. These pillars are what we believe will shape our players into godly character men.

Family is also a big part of our program. I've been blessed to have both of my sons, Darren and Mason, coach alongside me at different points in my career. And here at ETBU, we have a staff that is like a family. Many of our coaches are former ETBU players who want to give back to the program that shaped them. It's a special bond, and it's something that I cherish.

You know, what's exciting about this year is that we have a young, energetic coaching staff. They relate well to our players and bring a lot of enthusiasm to the field. As their mentor, I want to help them grow and develop their skills as coaches. We're even doing a Bible study together to strengthen our faith and discipleship.

As a head coach, what makes me tick is seeing these players every day. My worst day in coaching is still better than my best day in corporate America. I love being around these young men, pouring into their lives, and seeing them grow as both players and individuals. And there's nothing quite like the excitement of game days, where we get to see all our hard work come to fruition.

As for my love for football, it was instilled in me by my dad, who also played the sport. It's a game that brings people together, that teaches discipline and teamwork. And as a coach, it's rewarding to be a part of that process, to help shape young athletes into better versions of themselves.

So, that's a little bit about my journey as a coach and my vision for this program. I'm excited to see what the future holds for ETBU football and to continue making a positive impact on the lives of these young men. And as for me, I'm just grateful to be in a profession that brings me so much joy and fulfillment.