Coach Todd Campbell is a respected football coach, U.S. Army veteran, and educator known for his leadership, discipline, and focus on building strong teams.
Born and raised in Abilene, Texas, he grew up surrounded by the values of hard work, competition, and community spirit. Sport shaped much of his early life, inspiring a lifelong passion for teamwork and performance.
After graduating from Abilene Wylie High School, Campbell studied at Texas Tech University and later earned his degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Texas at Arlington. His coaching career began at Texas Tech, where he worked with wide receivers and developed a sharp eye for player development. He went on to coach at Texas A&M-Commerce and the College of the Sequoias, where his offensive strategy broke three school records and helped elevate the programme’s success.
Campbell later transitioned to high school football, taking on leadership roles across several 4A and 5A schools in Texas. Under his guidance, teams achieved multiple district and regional championships, reflecting his ability to motivate players and create winning cultures.
Following the events of 9/11, Campbell paused his career to serve in the U.S. Army. His years in service deepened his understanding of leadership and resilience, lessons he carried back to the field.
Beyond football, Coach Todd Campbell is active in community service, volunteering with local food pantries and shelters that support veterans. He continues to lead with integrity, commitment, and a passion for helping others reach their full potential.
Q: Todd, let’s start at the beginning. How did you first get into football and coaching?
A: I grew up in Abilene, West Texas, where football is more than a sport—it’s part of the culture. I played football, baseball, and basketball through school, but football always stood out. After graduating from Abilene Wylie High School, I went to Texas Tech, where I started helping with the football team as a student assistant. That’s where I caught the coaching bug. Seeing how strategy, teamwork, and communication came together fascinated me.
Q: You’ve coached at several levels—from university to junior college to high school. What’s stood out most about that journey?
A: Each level teaches you something different. At Texas Tech, I worked with the wide receivers and learnt how small details—like route timing or body positioning—can change the outcome of a game. Later, at Texas A&M-Commerce, I coached running backs and tight ends, which broadened my understanding of offensive balance.
When I moved to the College of the Sequoias, I became the Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach. That’s where our offence set three school records—most points scored in a single game, highest completion percentage for a season, and yards per catch. It wasn’t magic; it was preparation. We focused on precision, consistency, and believing we could outperform expectations.
Q: You then transitioned into high school coaching. How different was that experience compared to college?
A: High school coaching in Texas is special. The energy on Friday nights, the community involvement—it’s unlike anything else. I worked at five different 4A and 5A schools, taking on roles like Offensive Coordinator, Run Game Coordinator, and Quarterbacks Coach. Those teams went on to win multiple District, Bi-District, and Regional Championships.
What’s different at the high school level is the development aspect. You’re not just coaching players; you’re helping young men grow into adults. I always tell them, “Football ends someday, but discipline and teamwork don’t.”
Q: After 9/11, you made a major life decision to join the Army. What led to that?
A: That day changed everything for me. I was coaching, but I felt a strong pull to serve. It wasn’t about leaving football—it was about answering a call. I joined the U.S. Army and served for about four and a half years. Unfortunately, I was injured while on active duty and received an honourable medical discharge.
That time in the military taught me lessons no classroom or playbook could. Leadership, resilience, and accountability aren’t abstract ideas in the Army—they’re survival tools. Those lessons have guided me in every coaching role since.
Q: How did returning to coaching after your service shape your approach as a leader?
A: I came back with a deeper sense of purpose. Football wasn’t just about the scoreboard anymore—it was about preparing young people for life. I started paying more attention to mindset, communication, and handling pressure. In the Army, you learn that everyone counts, no matter their role. I brought that same thinking into my teams. Every player matters; every role has value.
Q: What do you think makes a great coach in today’s world?
A: A great coach today has to be adaptable. The game evolves, and so do the players. You have to balance discipline with understanding, structure with creativity. I also believe empathy is underrated in leadership. Whether it’s football or business, people perform best when they feel supported and respected.
Q: You’ve been involved in volunteer work with veterans and community organisations. Why is that important to you?
A: Giving back is part of who I am. After leaving the Army, I saw firsthand how many veterans struggle—homelessness, mental health, or simply finding purpose again. I volunteer with food pantries and shelters that focus on helping veterans get back on their feet. Sometimes, it’s not about money; it’s about showing up and giving time.
I tell my players the same thing: leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about service. Whether you’re a captain, a coach, or a neighbour, you can make a difference by giving back.
Q: Looking back, what are you most proud of in your career so far?
A: I’m proud of the relationships. Wins are great, records are nice, but seeing players succeed in life—that’s the real reward. Some have gone on to coach, others to serve, and some to raise great families. Knowing I played a small part in that means everything.
Q: Finally, what advice would you give to someone starting out in coaching or leadership?
A: Start with passion, stay humble, and never stop learning. Leadership isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being consistent. Whether you’re coaching football or managing a team in business, lead by example. And remember—success isn’t just about what you achieve, but what you help others achieve.
Read more:
An Interview with Coach Todd Campbell: Leading on and off the Field: