Q&A with Clinton head coach John Higbee
VYPE: Last season, the Clinton Red Tornadoes finished with a 7-4 record. How would you evaluate the team’s performance overall?
John Higbee: The standard is extremely high around here and I wouldn’t want it any other way. I believe we made too many mistakes for us to consistently perform at our best. That’s on me to find ways to eliminate as much of those as possible.
VYPE: Clinton High School football has a storied tradition in Oklahoma 4A football. How do you maintain this level of excellence year after year?
JH: Plain old fashion hard work and adherence to fundamentals. Continually look for ways to improve. Hire good people to help. Take pride in what you do but don’t let it stop you from asking for advice from those who have been there before.
VYPE: What were some of the key moments or games from last season that defined the team’s character and performance?
JH: We had several goal-line stands last season, three in one game. To me, that’s a testament to a team’s determination and mental toughness. I was very proud to be a part of that.
VYPE: What are the strengths of this year’s team, and how do you plan to build on last season’s successes?
JH: We are senior heavy this year. That’s not a guarantee for success but it usually helps with leadership and team chemistry.
VYPE: How do you prepare your team during the off-season to ensure they are ready for the competitive nature of 4A football?
JH: We are a small school and most of our athletes play more than one sport. We are fortunate enough to have weight classes during the school day. All our players are in one of those classes. We make strength gains throughout the year as a result. It’s a huge help.
VYPE: Can you describe your coaching philosophy and how it influences the way you manage and motivate your team?
JH: I’m an old school coach, but I don’t let that stop me from learning new things. There is always more to learn. I try not to lose sight of the big picture. The goal being that the athletes in this program graduate better equipped for having been a part of it.
Friendships that will last a lifetime, learning to overcome adversity, building toughness and selflessness.
VYPE: What role do community support play in the success of the Clinton football program?
JH: It’s an enormous help having the tradition that has gone on here. The community is always quick to help us anytime we have a need, and of course, the Friday night crowds are always great.
VYPE: Looking ahead to this season, what are your goals and expectations for the team?
JH: Play to the best of our ability. Improve at every opportunity. Come together as a team. Limit the mistakes. Be selfless. Everything else will take care of itself.
VYPE: Can you share a memorable moment from your coaching career at Clinton High School?
JH: Having spent 13 years of my career here in Clinton, I’ve had many fond experiences. The 2021 state championship was among the best.
VYPE: What advice would you give to aspiring football players who hope to play for the Clinton Red Tornadoes one day?
JH: Not everyone in the state has an opportunity to play for a place like Clinton. Don’t waste it.
VYPE: How do you handle the pressure and expectations that come with leading a historically successful football program
JH: Apparently not very well, I have a lot of sleepless nights. Being a head coach of any sport is stressful and of course, the rich tradition of a place like Clinton adds to it. I’m very fortunate to have all the support I need from my wife, coaches and a great administration.
