Being an assistant coach is a difficult task. The pay is not fantastic, the hours are grueling and there are a lot of long, hot summer days out on the practice field.
Over the next few weeks, I’m going to spotlight some of the great assistant coaches we have in our area and share their stories of why they do what they do. Today’s coach truly exemplifies the hard work and dedication it takes to be an assistant coach.
Larry Davis Jr. is a dedicated and experienced football coach serving as the offensive coordinator and assistant coach at North Side High School. His extensive background as both a player and a coach has made him a valuable asset to the Legends football program.
Head coach Ben Johnson had this to say about Davis:
“He loves the kids, he is a giver, he knows how to build relationships with the kids, he cares for our kids outside of football. Larry is very loyal to me and our program, you will always see him North Side from head to toe outside in public places. He always supports our kids in the other sports they play outside of football. Larry could be a head coach if he wanted to, I’m very blessed to have him on my staff. What I love the most about Larry is he doesn’t want credit, and doesn’t care about titles. He is willing to coach any position group I need him to at any given moment. He coaches our freshmen with the same enthusiasm and passion he does with our varsity kids. He is rare. I appreciate him more than he knows, the best I ever been around.” – Ben Johnson
Playing Career
Davis’s football journey began at Snider, where he played from 1992 to 1996. Demonstrating exceptional talent early on, he dressed for varsity as a freshman during the 1992 state championship season, contributing to a memorable and successful campaign. Following his time at Snider, he continued playing at Ball State from 1996 to 1999. As a key member of the 1996 Ball State team, he helped secure the Mid-American Conference (MAC) Championship and a berth in the Las Vegas Bowl.
Coaching Career
Transitioning from player to mentor, Davis embarked on his coaching career with a passion for developing young athletes and fostering team success. His coaching journey includes:
- Wayne High School (2011–2013): Davis began his coaching tenure with the Generals, where he honed his skills and began to make a significant impact on the team’s performance.
- Northrop High School (2014–2016): Davis continued his coaching career at Northrop while under Jason Doerffler. He worked with the running backs and also helped the other side of the ball.
- North Side High School (2017–Present): Since 2017, Davis has been an integral part of the North Side football program.
Coaching Influences
Larry Davis Jr.’s coaching style and philosophy have been shaped by several influential mentors and figures in the football community:
- Cornelius Simmons
- Russ Isaacs
- Don Schaffer
- Dennis Springer
These individuals have imparted valuable lessons and strategies that Davis incorporates into his coaching, emphasizing teamwork, discipline and a deep understanding of the game.
Favorite Coaching Moment
One of Davis’s most cherished coaching memories occurred two years ago when North Side triumphed over Bishop Dwenger and Homestead in the regular season, ending lengthy periods without wins against both. The victories not only boosted the team’s morale, but also reinforced the impact of perseverance and effective coaching.
Legacy and Impact
Larry Davis Jr. continues to inspire and lead young athletes at North Side, drawing from his rich history as a player and coach. His commitment to excellence, combined with his deep understanding of the game, makes him a respected figure in the high school football community. Through his mentorship, Davis fosters not only skilled players, but also well-rounded individuals prepared for success both on and off the field.
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