In this episode of Coaches Corner, Keith sits down with Utica University head football coach Blaise Faggiano, a coach who has spent nearly two decades building one of the most respected programs in the region. What starts as a conversation about football quickly becomes a deeper discussion about family, leadership, mentorship and the impact a coach can have long after the final whistle. From his arrival in Utica in 2008 to the growth of both the university and the football program, Coach Faggiano reflects on the journey that has helped shape his legacy.
Throughout the conversation, Coach Faggiano shares stories about former players who have gone on to become coaches themselves, the importance of recruiting local talent and why community involvement has always been a priority for his program. Whether it's youth camps, charitable game day initiatives or creating opportunities for student athletes to give back, his commitment extends far beyond the football field. His passion for the Utica area is evident and so is his pride in the relationships built along the way.
More than anything, this episode highlights the values that have guided Coach Faggiano from day one. While many programs talk about culture, he believes in building a family. It's a philosophy that has remained unchanged since his first season and continues to influence generations of players, coaches and community members.
In this episode, you'll hear about:
• Building Utica University football over nearly 20 years
• The coaching tree that now spans colleges and high schools across the country
• Why giving back to the community is part of the program's identity
• Recruiting and developing local athletes from the Mohawk Valley
• Creating a program where former players always have a place to come home to
