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Coach Larry Williams
What made you decide to become a coach?
Becoming a coach came from the influence of Coach Gray and
Coach Jim Southward. They were a big staple in the decision to go
into a coaching career. Coach Southward gave me my first coaching
job at MDCC, and it all started there. From there, I worked my way
here to Hinds CC as the defense coordinator.
What do you love most about Hinds?
The people I work with. From the office personnel to the coaching
staff, we work as a family. I have a seasoned and capable athletic
director, Nathan Werremeyer. I’m blessed to have a driven coaching
staff and I’m covered by the best administration in the state.
What is your favorite Hinds tradition?
The night before the game when we meet as a team and talk about
life–not football.
Is there a part of your job that you didn’t anticipate?
Having to cut players. Every cut I have to make is personal to me.
I want each athlete to follow their dream even if it can’t be realized
on my field.
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Work hard, be honest to yourself, set achievable goals, and let
nothing stop you from achieving them.
Do you have a favorite childhood sports memory?
When I was playing AAU basketball I hit the game winning shot to
win the championship game for my team.
How do you encourage your players to be better, both on and
off the field?
We bring speakers in once a week to speak on success, on and off
the field. I try to bring in speakers that the kids can relate to–speakers
who have gone down the same road my athletes are traveling.
What’s your biggest win as a coach?
My first win against ICC as a head coach.
What are your feelings about having more teams in the
national play-offs?
I think it will be great for the game. Get the best eight teams to play
for it.
What’s one of the most difficult things about being a public
figure, and what is the most rewarding?
I have to always watch my surroundings. I have to monitor where
I allow myself to be and how I present myself even in my free time.
Trying to be a positive influence in the lives of the players is
sometimes difficult because I have to be on my guard at all times.
What do you consider your greatest achievement or
accomplishment, and why?
Graduating from MSU and getting my master’s degree from MVSU
because I wanted that for my parents.
Who is your biggest fan?
My wife, Dianne, my daughter Anastasia, and my seven sisters and
brothers. They push and believe in me. Even when I’m unsure of
myself, they believe in me, in who I am, and in my ability.
Hometown CLINTON • 19