How Dual Roles Strengthen Relationships, Culture, and Growth
By Max Levesque ’26
At St. Paul’s, the connection between the classroom and the playing field is something students experience every day. Teacher-coaches are a major part of what makes the school unique, and their influence reaches far beyond practices and games. Teacher-coaches are important at St. Paul’s because they allow coaches to fully understand their players — learning the ins and outs of who they are and the young men they are growing to be.
For decades, St. Paul’s has built a tradition of strong mentorship, highlighted by legendary teacher-coaches whose names still echo in the hallways. As Mr. Barnhardt explained, teacher-coaches have made a “long-lasting impact on the lives of young men,” becoming central figures in the school’s culture. Whether it’s Coach Wack or Coach Erickson, every corner you turn at SP reveals another outstanding teacher-coach who has carried on the culture of what SP is.
One of the biggest advantages of having teacher-coaches is the relationships they form with students. They see both sides of their athletes — the student and the competitor — which builds trust and accountability. As you move between the classroom and the field, that connection only grows stronger. Sitting in a classroom hearing your teacher spread knowledge and then transitioning to the field allows students to see both sides of their coaches. The teacher-coach model humanizes teachers and allows them to share their expertise in many realms.
Teacher-coaches don’t just teach lessons or run practices; they understand what students carry with them every day. They know when big games or tough tests are happening, and they balance expectations with empathy. Mr. Settembrino put it best: teacher-coaches “know the whole student.” Teacher-coaches see a player’s best and worst days — they are there whether students are breaking records or failing tests, always ready to support them.
Both Coach Barnhardt and Coach Settembrino describe the teacher-coach role as mentorship that lasts far beyond one season or one school year. They see students through highs and lows, guide them toward future goals, and celebrate their achievements long after they leave SP.
These wonderful faculty members not only have a large effect on students during their time at SP, but also long after they move on. Being surrounded by a strong support system in academics and athletics has a long-lasting impact on the development of young minds.
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