Uncover Mike Vrabel’s Sunday Ritual: An Inside Look
Mike Vrabel, the head coach of the New England Patriots, adheres to a special ritual each Sunday night during football season. This routine involves reaching out to Gerry Rardin, his former high school football coach at Walsh Jesuit High School in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. Their bond, cultivated over years, remains strong despite Vrabel’s demanding career.
Continuing the Connection with Gerry Rardin
After every Patriots game, Vrabel makes time to either call or text Rardin. This connection has been particularly meaningful since Vrabel’s time with the Cleveland Browns last year, which rekindled their friendship. Rardin, a dedicated coach for 35 years, also taught Spanish at Walsh Jesuit. Their interactions often involve reminiscing about shared experiences and golfing together.
Significance of Their Relationship
Rardin remains a pivotal influence in Vrabel’s life. “Gerry made an impact on a lot of people,” Vrabel explained. He appreciates the selflessness Rardin exhibited during his coaching tenure. Rardin, though recovering from hip replacement surgery, eagerly anticipates future Super Bowls, stating, “There will be others.”
Memorable Moments and Legacy
- Vrabel’s high school experiences included playing under Rardin while facing challenges, like a fractured vertebra during his junior year.
- While many doctors believed his career was over, one doctor at the Cleveland Clinic provided a brace that allowed him to continue playing.
- His resilience during that time solidified Rardin’s belief in Vrabel’s character and potential.
Vrabel’s Coaching Philosophy
Rardin attributes Vrabel’s coaching success to his authenticity. “The best coaches never try to be anybody else,” he stated. “Mike has been the same guy he was in my class.” His ability to connect with players and instill a sense of camaraderie is exceptional.
Rardin also shared humorous anecdotes about Vrabel’s personality, illustrating how his charm has remained constant from high school to coaching at the collegiate level. This aspect of his character fosters an engaging atmosphere for his players.
The Warriors Mentality
Walsh Jesuit High School’s nickname, the Warriors, resonates with the Patriots, known for their tough demeanor on the road. Vrabel often emphasizes this “road warrior” mentality, contributing to a strong team spirit. He even incorporates cultural references, like the film “The Warriors,” into his coaching approach.
- Vrabel’s joyful exclamations of “Warriors” after wins excites both his team and his high school community.
- Rardin remarked on the nostalgia and pride he feels when witnessing Vrabel express these sentiments.
As Vrabel prepares for monumental matches, including Super Bowls, he remains grounded in the relationships that have shaped him. Whether he wins or loses, he vows to touch base with Rardin after the games, honoring the ongoing support that underscores his journey in the world of football.
