Talk of the Town with SJO head football coach Shawn Skinner

Every week we ask a school official, village trustee or mayor three questions. This week we spoke to St. Joseph-Ogden’s head football coach Shawn Skinner about Homecoming.

What is your favorite part of Homecoming Week?
My favorite part is when it’s done.
Honestly, it is really difficult to keep the kids focused and on task. There are just so many distractions. As a former player and parent to players, I understand the significance. As a coach it’s probably as stressful as any game week we face all season.

Do you prepare differently for the Homecoming game?
We try not to prep any differently than we would. Sometimes circumstances do not allow that.  A lot of it depends on how well we feel the kids can stay focused. Monday through Wednesday were really good this week. The kids were clearly not focused on Thursday. 

What is your favorite Homecoming memory from your time at SJO?3. As a player our 1989 team scored on the first two offensive plays of the game and we just dominated Danville Schlarman. As a coach I don’t know that I have had a favorite one. One thing that I try to really do is enjoy the chance to speak with the alumni that make it back. I guess that might qualify as a favorite part. But seeing old teammates, friends and former players is always very rewarding. We have a great tradition and it’s a great chance to see reconnect with those great people.