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D. Coordinator Chris Lidwin Football Career:
Honors
Coaching Career
My Vision Ever since I heard about the Hitmen I was determined to help with whatever I could for the team to be successful. Joining the team during a transitional period of new talent and faces was a challenge in itself. Coach Blawat's philosophy of "Team First" was hard for many of the new athletes to grasp, but eventually it was reached later in the season.
My aggressive style of defense has shown other IFL teams that we aren't going to just lay down. At any given time we can rotate players without losing a step. I feel we have the best front seven, as I believe the Hitmen can overcome any adversity from last season and make another run for the championship. Every player needs to understand that a position isn't given, it's earned, no matter where you're from or who you are.
I challenge each and every one of our players who choose to play for us this year to give your best on every play, in every practice, and in every sense of the game. I know we've got the tools to achieve our goal of an IFL championship, but it takes a group effort. My Philosophy I like run a type of ying - and - yang defense. A defense that is aggressive, yet careful at the same time. If I am going to blitz any particular position I want to make sure that the defensive backfield is safe just in case of the long ball. I've always felt as if the defensive side of the ball can control the game if you allow it to. What I mean by that is, make the offense game plan around you. A tough SOB who isn't afraid to take on an attacking O-linemen twice his size When I was coaching at Pius XI under Coach Carey Venne, I learned that an offense can be affected greatly if you use the perfect package of players to create a mismatch of speed, size, and strength. Every once in a while you give up a play on purpose to set up an offense, making them think they are being successful. But in actuality, they have just fallen into your trap. I believe we have those types If you look at our linebacking core, you can't help to notice a Defensive MVP (Huck) in the middle, a tough SOB who isn't afraid to take on an attacking O-linemen twice his size with Mike Saglin, and one of the quickest and underrated weak side backers in our league in Ward Lyon who led the team in tackles in 2006. We also have 2 outstanding players that can rotate in at either of the three positions without missing a beat (Sticker and Quinn). Our LBs are the heart of our defense Our LBs, in my opinion, are the heart of our defense. We focus our attack around them and they get the job done. Our DL is another powerful force to deal with. With an ALL-Star DE leading the way, Jason Henneberry and can attack with both speed and run stopping When we have a healthy DL, there isn't a team in this league that can stop us. DBs struggled a bit on the deep ball, but had exceptional quickness and can knock the snot out of you if you dare come across the middle. Our corners can run with anyone and are developing with every opportunity they get. There is more to football than just battling someone As far as when I feel comfortable with a player actually playing, it depends on how bad the player really wants it. Film study, asking questions, being open There is more to football than just battling someone and depending on your athletic ability alone. You need to study your opponent, both the strengths and weaknesses. When a player doesn't ask questions it tells me a few things: they don't want their teammates and coaches to know they really don't understand or that the player isn't looking deep enough into the called play. When a player questions my call, it tells me that they can mentally visualize what I am attempting to accomplish. Players who depend on the same 'ol technique will be the first ones to get beat. You can't expect to be a successful athlete if you refuse to change it up a bit. It may have worked in high school and maybe even in college, but not in the IFL. Lastly, if I notice that you possess certain leadership qualities, you can gain the trust from your Sometimes you come across a few players that are gifted individuals in all of these catagories. These are the type of players you want to build your team around. I wonder if anyone wants to step up and take that role this year?!?!?! Outside The Lines
My family tries not to miss any games that I am apart of, even if I'm coaching. Their support has helped me through some tough seasons and I know I couldn't have done it without them. I am a Physical Education teacher at 2 Milwaukee Public schools, Tippecanoe and Hayes Bilingual Elementary. I love my job and pray that there will be more money on the budget for the next few years. People don't realize that sports education can change the lives of so many children. We need better attendance at practice and more commitment in the weight room
To The Hitmen The Hitmen are only as good as you want 'em to be. It's your choice if you want a repeat of a disappointing 2006 season or if you're ready to take the next step to a Championship. I'm jumping in with both feet and want to know if anyone else wants to join me. |
a unit, in the league. This gives me a great deal flexibility in terms of the defenses I can run and the plays I can call come game day.
of mismatches and packages with the Hitmen. 
packages. 
to new techniques, and acting as a leader are a few qualities I look for in a player. 
teammates a hell of a lot faster than someone who just stands around and watches.