The familiar figure of a dedicated coach, walking back and forth on the sidelines with a headset, yelling and screaming encouragements to his team. For 34 years, Dan Sabers’ has been head coach for the City High varsity football team.

“I love it, I mean I told people that I feel blessed to be in the position that I’m in and not only as a coach but as a teacher,” Dan Sabers said.

As well as coaching, Sabers also teaches health and weight lifting at City High.

“There is just something special about the traditions of City High and now they have a principal and athletic director that are feeling the same way. They love the school and they’re willing to put in the extra time and effort to do special things for the school, and that motivates you,” Sabers said.

Students and football players agree that Coach Sabers is a very dedicated coach and teacher that has a very positive mindset in challenging situations.

“I think we’re getting to where we need to be, I was hoping we’d get there a little sooner, but I think we’re in the process and we’ve had an improved week,” Sabers said.

With a lot of valuable players leaving, the team is doing well according to Coach Sabers. This year, there are only 18 seniors, over half of the team being juniors.

“I still think for us is to play every play like it’s our last,” Sabers said. “I am asking 16, 17, 18 year olds to really grow up and really be so focussed that every play has got to count. That’s going to continue to be the challenge because that’s just human nature.”

The football team practices about three hours a day, Monday through Saturday. Sabers purposely runs tough practices both mentally and physically to prepare the players for the games ahead.

With a good part of the season ahead, Sabers’ optimism is key.

“I think we have a chance to be a pretty good football team before it’s done.” Sabers said.