On March 7th, Deauntra Thompson-Smith was named the new head football coach at Dobbins Vo-Tech.
Coach Thompson-Smith took time to talk to EasternPAFootball.com about his new role.
What is your previous coaching background?
I served as the Defensive Coordinator for South Philadelphia High School for three seasons, Olney High school for one season, and Northeast (MD) High School from 2014-16 seasons. I also served as a Special Team Coordinator for Red Lion Academy. I also have head coach basketball experience.
What does this new role mean to you?
This role is super important, I believe Dobbins can return to the great program it was in the past. I am glad to help heal the community with sports and bring a sense of community and pride to the area.
What is your focus as you build a staff?
My focus is to bring on great character coaches beyond the field. When looking for coaches, I want them to inspire change on and off the field. Help players develop into great adults and prepare them for secondary life. Each coach comprehends Xs and Os and also pushes players to new levels. The culture of being a productive community member and college ready for sports and academics.
What is your philosophy as a coach?
My Philosophy for the program is SWAG this is how we model as coaches and develop players.
- Successfully- On and Off the field success
- Winning- Winning in the classroom and Practice
- Achieves – Little victories make great wins
- Greatness- Next Step in life preparedness
Youth Leadership Code of Focus:
- Respect: Time, People, and Property
- Honesty: The ability to identify truth within Self
- Righteousness: Leaders within the COMMUNITY
- Loyalty: Challenging myself to be better than Yesterday
- Consistency: Showing up every day, routines of greatness
Where did you go to school (high school and college)?
I went to Appoquinimink High School in Middletown, Delaware. I completed my Undergraduate at Delaware State University and my Master’s at Neumman University.
Did you play football in high school and college?
Yes, I played high school football and started for 3 seasons. I was recruited to play at DSU and enrolled. I battled injuries and had an academic scholarship, so I decided to leave playing and focus on coaching.
Do you teach and if so, what subject do you teach?
I did teach. I taught African American history, World History, US History, and Civics. I am currently the Assistant Director of Relationships First, Which is the Restorative Justice Department for the School District of Philadelphia. The work that we are doing is changing school climates to better educational experiences for the whole building.
What are your thoughts about the league you will be playing in?
I believe that the league is getting better and developing players. I would like to think Dobbins will win the league, but that’s because I’m the head coach. Dobbins will make some noise this year
