Three coaches from St. Tammany Parish have been named finalists for the National High School Athletic Coaches Association's (NHSACA) National Coach of the Year award, a prestigious recognition that celebrates excellence in high school sports coaching. This achievement is particularly remarkable given the highly competitive nature of the nomination process, which saw 158 coaches from eight different sports recognized at a banquet on July 1st. What makes this trio of coaches even more exceptional is their diverse backgrounds and the impact they've had on their respective programs and communities.
One of the finalists, Glenn "Benji" Benjamin, is a Trinidad and Tobago native who has directed the St. Scholastica Doves soccer team to three consecutive LHSAA state championships. Benjamin's passion for the sport is evident in his 89-21-18 record over six seasons with the Doves. He also serves as the Mandeville Soccer Club Academy Director for the U9-U10 programs, further showcasing his commitment to the sport's development. What makes Benjamin's nomination particularly fascinating is his international background and the cultural exchange that comes with it. As a former member of the Trinidad and Tobago U20 national team, he brings a unique perspective to the coaching world, challenging the notion that coaching excellence is confined to a specific geographic region.
Another finalist, Errol Gauff, is a veteran coach in his ninth year with Hannan High School. Gauff has compiled an impressive 189-105 record with state titles in 2022 and 2025. His journey to coaching excellence is a testament to the power of perseverance and hard work. Gauff's 567-220 overall record, including 19 years at St. Thomas Aquinas, highlights his consistent success and ability to develop players. What many people don't realize is that Gauff's coaching philosophy is deeply rooted in gratitude and humility. He attributes his success to his family, particularly his wife, Medria, and daughter, Hailey, who have made sacrifices to support his coaching endeavors. This perspective on coaching excellence is a refreshing reminder that success is not solely measured by wins and losses, but also by the relationships and values instilled in the players.
The third finalist, Danny Tullis, is a seasoned coach with a remarkable 786-177 overall record at five different schools. Tullis' ability to adapt and succeed at multiple institutions is a testament to his versatility and adaptability as a coach. His back-to-back state titles at Slidell in the past two seasons further solidify his reputation as a top coach in the region. What makes Tullis' nomination particularly interesting is his focus on family and community. As a father and a coach, he understands the importance of instilling values and building relationships that extend beyond the court or field. This perspective on coaching excellence is a powerful reminder that success is not just about winning, but also about creating a positive impact on the lives of young athletes.
In my opinion, the NHSACA's National Coach of the Year award is not just a recognition of individual achievements, but also a celebration of the values and principles that define excellence in coaching. These three coaches from St. Tammany Parish exemplify the power of passion, perseverance, and community in shaping successful athletic programs. Their stories are a reminder that coaching excellence is not confined to a specific geographic region or background, but is instead a universal pursuit that transcends boundaries and brings people together. As we celebrate these remarkable coaches, let us also reflect on the impact they have had on their players and communities, and the legacy they will leave behind for future generations of athletes.
