Building Champions Beyond the Field: Chad Pennington’s Journey to Sayre’s Historic State Title

The Tom Dupree Show

Episode Overview

In this inspiring episode, Tom Dupree sits down with Chad Pennington, head coach of Sayre School’s football program, fresh off their historic first state championship victory. Joined by Clark Dupree, the conversation explores how Pennington built a championship program from the ground up while prioritizing character development and life lessons over wins and losses.

Key Highlights

Building Sayre’s Program

• Started with just 30 varsity players in the first year
• Current roster of 49 players (35% of eligible male students)
• Transformed a program after 40-year hiatus into state champions

Pennington’s Coaching Philosophy

• Mission statement focuses on core values rather than championships
• Emphasizes responding to adversity over emotional reactions
• Creates opportunities for every player to contribute (111 opportunities per game)
• Develops partnerships with families and the school community

Life Lessons Through Football

• Teaching resiliency and proper response to adversity
• Focus on fundamentals becoming more important at higher levels
• Building character and life skills beyond the game
• Creating lasting relationships and memories

Notable Quotes

“College football and college sports in general have gone from being transformational to transactional.” – Chad Pennington

“State championship is never mentioned. Wins are never mentioned… it’s about the core values.” – Chad Pennington

Looking Forward

• Goal to maintain competitive consistency at the 1A level
• Continued focus on character development and life preparation
• Building on championship foundation for sustained success

Program Details

• Guest: Chad Pennington (Sayre School Head Football Coach)
• Topics: High School Football, Leadership Development, Character Building, State Championship

About Chad Pennington

• Former NFL quarterback
• Grew up in Knoxville, Tennessee
• Attended Marshall University
• Moved to Central Kentucky in 2012
• Current head coach of Sayre School football program

Contact Information

Dupree Financial Group
Phone: [phone]
Website: dupreefinancial.com

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