Story Written By: Damon Cook @ CHSAANow.com
AURORA, Colo. — Woodland Park is coming off a season in which it went just 3-6. Coming into this season, the Panthers returned many of their players from that 3-6 squad. But, things look much different this year, as coach Chad Drummond has his team 8-0, with one final game remaining in the regular season.
To start off the season, Woodland Park beat Lincoln 62-0, a statement into what the Panthers would achieve this season. Now outscoring their opponents 294-72, the Panthers are ready to make some noise in the postseason.
Chad Drummond
Record as a Head Coach: 21-14
Record at Woodland Park: 21-14
How did you get into coaching?
It's a bit of an unusual story. I'm a dad who ended up becoming a coach. My son started playing flag football in the first grade, and like many park and rec programs, they didn't have coaches, so I stepped in. I coached flag football for about two years and then transitioned to pee wee football when he moved into tackle football in the second grade. I coached pee wee for about four years before Coach Roscom brought me up to the high school as a position coach for running backs. After three years, I became the offensive coordinator. In the 2018-19 season, my head coach called me and said 'hey man, you're incredible with offense. I have a great idea: I'm going to make you the defensive coordinator.' Which I thought was insane. I spent the summer building a defense based on concepts that had challenged me as an offensive coordinator. That experience ultimately led to me becoming the head coach. The defense I implemented had a strong impact, allowing Woodland Park to win some games. When Joe Roscom left, I interviewed for the head coaching position and got it. This is my fourth season as head coach.
Last year, your team went 3-6. This year, you're 8-0. What changed?
I believe two main factors contributed to our success this year: senior leadership and work ethic. The integrity and leadership of our senior class are unparalleled. Many of these kids started as freshmen during my first season as head coach. Despite a challenging year, they showed tremendous dedication in the offseason, understanding the playbook, and buying into the system. Their hard work has truly paid off.
How did the team's mindset change after last season?
I saw a shift in the offseason. The team recognized they had let some games slip away last year due to lack of focus and preparation. They were determined not to repeat that fate. The struggles of last season were crucial to our success this year; the disappointment motivated them to commit fully to their preparation. Last year, we achieved something that hadn't been done in 22 years by making the playoffs, which fueled their desire to succeed.
How did you feel after the team's 62-0 victory to open the season?
It was incredible to witness the culmination of their hard work in that game. Seeing our offense, defense, and special teams perform at a high level provided insight into what our season could be. That victory solidified their belief that all their preparation had paid off and that they were ready to compete.
As a coach, what have you learned about teaching these kids?
I've come to realize that success is a byproduct of the love and care we give our players. Early in my coaching career, I focused heavily on X's and O's, but I've learned the importance of connecting with the kids on a personal level. We prioritize communication and making our players feel valued as part of our community. We also have a service requirement in our program to foster a sense of giving back.
What excites you about the upcoming postseason?
I'm mostly excited for the opportunity these kids have earned. They've worked hard, and it's gratifying to see them potentially reap the rewards of their investment. As the season progresses, each week is about becoming a better team, and I look forward to seeing their growth and how they seize this opportunity.
What do you want readers to know about your team and Woodland Park football?
We're a tight-knit community, and these kids genuinely love each other, their school, and their community. They enjoy competition and are committed to giving back. It's a beautiful community to grow up in, and we feel truly blessed to be Woodland Park Panthers.
