Over the last few years the athletic department has been hiring a younger coaching staff, most of which are South High alumni. From their experience at South, these coaches have learned all kinds of tools of the trade. They certainly know the turf.

The soccer program is a prime example, featuring many alumni coaches. Most of the men’s and women’s teams have at least one South graduate coaching. “The women’s soccer team needed a little life,” said Jillian Stockmo, head coach of the varsity women’s team, in a phone interview. “I think that a younger coaching squad helped with that.”

At 36, wrestling coach Drew Gau is among the older of the South alumni who returned to coach. Even though it’s been almost 20 years since he graduated, Gau still relates to current South wrestlers. “I understand how hard it is to wrestle in Minnesota,” he said.

Even though it’s been years since they left, these coaches have a certain allegiance to South. “I bleed orange,” said Gau. Stockmo echoes this idea: “South soccer is a huge part of my life,” she said.

Some of the younger alumni staff are feeling a little unseasoned due to their age. “I wish I had some more experience,” said Stockmo, a 2009 graduate. Gao agreed. “I can see younger coaches being a little inexperienced to deal with some of the aspects of coaching,” he said.

Coaches can be an influential figure in a player’s life and can make a lasting impression. “My coaches were positive adults in my life,” said Gau. Stockmo’s coaches also impact her to this day. “I find myself doing some of the things that they did” she reflected.

However, some alumni are taking different approaches than their high school coaches. Jackie Penaz, coach of Adapted Hockey, recounted that her coaches were more “hands off” compared to the way she interacts with athletes. “We do more with our students” continued Pennaz.

To these coaches, being there for their players can mean more than just teaching them strategies or drills. They’re aware of their place in their players’ high school career and the struggles that pervade their lives. It means teaching the next generation of sportspeople that caring for the community can be fulfilling. “Giving back [to the community] is really important,” concluded Penaz.