Coach Todd Campbell is a respected football coach, U.S. Army veteran and educator known for his leadership, discipline and focus on building strong teams.
Born and raised in Abilene, Texas, he grew up surrounded by the values of hard work, competition and community spirit. Sports shaped much of his early life and instilled a lifelong passion for teamwork and achievement.
After graduating from Abilene Wylie High School, Campbell attended Texas Tech University and later earned his degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Texas at Arlington. His coaching career began at Texas Tech, where he worked with wide receivers and developed a keen eye for player development. He then coached at Texas A&M-Commerce and the College of the Sequoias, where his offensive strategy broke three school records and contributed to the program’s success.
Campbell later moved to high school football and took on leadership roles at several 4A and 5A schools in Texas. Under his leadership, teams reached multiple district and regional championships, reflecting his ability to motivate players and create a winning culture.
After the events of September 11, Campbell interrupted his career to serve in the U.S. Army. His years of service deepened his understanding of leadership and resilience, insights he took into practice.
Beyond football, coach Todd Campbell is involved in the community service sector, volunteering at local food banks and shelters that support veterans. He continues to lead with integrity, commitment and a passion for helping others reach their full potential.
Q: Todd, let’s start at the beginning. How did you get into football and coaching?
A: I grew up in Abilene, West Texas, where football is more than a sport – it’s part of the culture. I played football, baseball and basketball throughout high school, but football always stood out. After graduating from Abilene Wylie High School, I went to Texas Tech where I began helping out on the football team as a student assistant. That’s when I caught the coaching bug. Seeing how strategy, teamwork and communication fit together fascinated me.
Q: You have coached at multiple levels – from university to junior college to high school. What struck you most about this trip?
A: At each level you learn something different. At Texas Tech, I worked with the wide receivers and learned how small details – like route timing or body positioning – can change the outcome of a game. I later coached running backs and tight ends at Texas A&M-Commerce, which expanded my understanding of offensive balance.
When I transferred to College of the Sequoias, I became the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. Here our offense set three school records – most points scored in a single game, highest completion percentage in a season and yards per catch. It wasn’t magic; it was preparation. We focused on precision, consistency and the belief that we can exceed expectations.
Q: You then transitioned to high school coaching. How different was this experience compared to college?
A: High school coaching in Texas is special. The energy on Friday night, the community involvement – it’s unlike anything else. I have worked at five different 4A and 5A schools, taking on roles such as offensive coordinator, running game coordinator and quarterbacks coach. These teams won multiple district, bi-district and regional championships.
What is different at the high school level is the developmental aspect. They don’t just train players; They help young men grow up. I always tell them: “Football ends one day, but discipline and teamwork don’t.”
Q: After 9/11, you made a major life decision to join the Army. What led to this?
A: That day changed everything for me. I was coaching but felt a strong urge to pitch. It wasn’t about giving up football – it was about answering a call. I joined the US Army and served for about four and a half years. Unfortunately, I was injured on active duty and received an honorable medical discharge.
This time in the military taught me lessons that no classroom or textbook could teach. Leadership, resilience and responsibility are not abstract ideas in the Army – they are survival tools. These lessons have guided me in every coaching role since.
Q: How has returning to coaching after your service shaped your approach as a leader?
A: I came back with a deeper sense of purpose. Football was no longer just about the scoreboard – it was about preparing young people for life. I started paying more attention to mindset, communication, and dealing with pressure. In the army you learn that everyone counts, regardless of their role. I brought the same mindset to my teams. Every player is important; Every role has a value.
Q: What do you think makes a great coach in today’s world?
A: A great coach these days has to be adaptable. The game is evolving and so are the players. You have to balance discipline with understanding, structure and creativity. I also believe that empathy is underestimated in leadership. Whether in football or business, people perform best when they feel supported and respected.
Q: You have volunteered with veterans and community organizations. Why is this important to you?
A: Giving back is part of who I am. After leaving the Army, I saw firsthand how many veterans struggled with issues—homelessness, mental health, or simply finding new meaning. I volunteer at food pantries and shelters that focus on helping veterans get back on their feet. Sometimes it’s not about money; It’s about showing up and giving time.
I tell my players the same thing: Leadership isn’t about titles, it’s about service. Whether you’re a captain, coach or neighbor, you can make a difference by giving back.
Q: Looking back, what are you most proud of in your career so far?
A: I’m proud of the relationships. Winning is great, records are nice, but seeing players succeed in life – that is the true reward. Some went on to become coaches, others served, and others raised great families. Knowing that I played a small role in this means everything.
Q: Finally, what advice would you give to someone starting out in coaching or leadership?
A: Start with passion, stay humble and never stop learning. Leadership is not about being perfect; it’s about being consistent. Whether you’re a football coach or leading a team in business, lead by example. And remember: Success is not just about what you accomplish, but also about what you help others do.
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An Interview with Coach Todd Campbell: Leadership on and off the field:
