2024 Interview with Xenia High School head coach Maurice Harden

 

Maurice Harden 

Xenia High School 

Head Football Coach

Would you let the readers know about your coaching career? First job to current job?

I started my coaching career as a graduate assistant at Urbana University. I coached running backs along with being the strength and conditioning coach while I was there. I also assisted in coaching the OL and TEs. I transitioned to high school, where I became a co-offensive coordinator at Fairborn High School. I was there for a year, then transitioned to Chaminade Julienne, where I went to school. I was the offensive coordinator there for over 5 years under the legendary Coach Marcus Colvin. During my time at CJ, we had great success, which propelled me to my next opportunity. In the winter of 2021, I was named the head football coach of Xenia High School. During my time at Xenia, we are currently 21–12 in 3 years, with 1 MVL championship and the first undefeated season in school history. 

Who are some of the coaches that you learned from, and what was the biggest thing you learned from them?

I would say I learned a lot from everyone I’ve ever worked with and for. However, I have three guys that really impacted my life as a coach and a man. First, I would say my high school coach, Jim Place. Coach Place is one of the main reasons I went into coaching. He was instrumental in teaching goal-setting and character development. The second coach would be my college football coach, Dave Taynor. Coach Taynor instilled in me my tenacity for hard work, grit, and relentless determination to be the best version of myself. Lastly, I would say Marcus Colvin, who I worked for at Chaminade Julienne. My relationship with Coach Colvin is unique because I met him when I was a freshman in his world cultures class at Chaminade Julienne. He was also one of my coaches in high school. Then, 12 years later, I worked for him. Coach Colvin taught me how to run a football program and how to develop relationships that would last a lifetime. Every man that I spoke about, I truly loved and respected. I implement something they have taught me in every aspect of my program. I’m a better coach and man because of these individuals.

What will you remember the most from the class of 2024?

I would say how resilient that group was to everything that happened during the season. The class of 2024 was a talented group with some special kids in it. I love those guys, and I’m thankful for everything they have done for the program. 

Would you list any members from the 2024 class that will be moving on to play college ball?

Gabe Funk, OL, 6'6" 300 App St.

How important is it for all teams in the system to play a full schedule?

I feel like playing a full schedule is essential for the success of your program. If you want the opportunity to compete in the playoffs and play for a state championship, you need a full schedule.

How important is it for all of the teams in the system to run the same type of offense and defense?

I believe the high school and middle school connection is key! I meet with our middle coaches once a year. I make sure that we are on the same page in reference to expectations, practice plans, and schematics. The connection helps with the retention of information and allows younger players to develop faster. I firmly believe that the head coach’s presence within the middle school program creates buy-in and shows your investment in building the program. 

The Buccaneers started off the 2023 season with four straight wins but struggled after winning just one game the rest of the season. What were the leading factors that led to the slow finish?

We lost seven starters to injuries last season. We struggled late due to that, which led us to play a lot of freshman and sophomores. We are confident that those kids will take a huge jump this year due to the experience they gained last season. 

What is the biggest lesson you learned from last season that you can use to be a better coach this season?

Lessons I learned from last season:
“Control what you can control.” 
“Be where your feet are.” 
“Stay process-driven; the results will come with the work you continue to do.” 
“Positivity breeds new opportunities for growth and development.”

As the head coach, what all do you do to aid in your players getting recruited?

I assist in the setup of our local recruit nights. I constantly call college coaches and check to see where my student athletes are on their recruiting board. I promote my players on various social media platforms and meet with coaches when they visit our school. I provide college coaches with an Excel document that lists our student athletes height and weight, GPA, test scores, and contact information. I assist in creating a college showcase event for our players and the league. I will always work to find ways for our players to get an opportunity to play at the next level. 

What type of offense is the toughest to prepare for? Explain

I’m not a defensive coach, so it’s hard to answer that question. I would think any offense that uses tempo, multiple formations, and motion would probably be tough to defend. 

This is the tough question. Do you feel that private schools have an unfair advantage over public schools?

I don’t believe so. 

What is the one sport you cannot watch on TV?

Curling 

Have you ever watched a Dayton Flyers football game?

I have been to a UD football game and had the privilege of playing against them as well. 

Who is your favorite athlete?

This is a tough question because I have so many players that I’ve enjoyed watching. However, I would probably say Kobe “Bean” Bryant.