Ben Kolstad sits down for a Just 5 with 919 Magazine

With Ben Kolstad

919 | NORTH RALEIGH

Leesville Road High Head Football Coach

Head Football Coach Ben Kolstad

As Head Football Coach at Cary High and Sanderson High, Ben Kolstad had phenomenal success. Now Kolstad moves to Leesville Road High in the same capacity, replacing Chad Smothers – who became Athletic Director at Green Hope High in Cary this year.

How and why did you get into high school sports?

I grew up around it, and sports helped make me who I am today. Dad and Grandfather were football coaches.

Who were your biggest influences growing up?

My coaches and my parents.

What are the biggest challenges in the new position?

Being hired so late (June), (and facing) so many new things! (Perhaps the biggest challenge is) getting to really know the kids and develop that trust you get over the off-season and previous seasons.

How do you view your opportunity in the new position?

At my previous schools I had to change the culture; they were not used to winning. Leesville expects to WIN – and it is set up to be successful. This challenge is more about taking Leesville to the next level and building on what Coach (Chad) Smothers and the previous staff had done.

What’s your advice for parents to ensure children succeed in school?

First, support the program. Be there for your kids. And be a role model.

‘Leesville expects to WIN – and it is set up to be successful.’

BED KOLSTAD New LRHS Football Coach

BEN KOLSTAD PROFILE

AGE:

41

HOMETOWN:

Green Bay, WI

RESIDENCE:

Hillsborough, NC

POSITION:

Head Football Coach,

Leesville Road High

PREVIOUS:

Head Coach, Cary High (9 yr),

Head Coach, Sanderson High (6 yr)

EDUCATION:

Teaching Degree in Physical Education,

UW-River Falls

FAMILY:

Wife, April; 2 sons: Cullen (9), Sutter (7)

INTERESTS:

Watching sons play hockey,

going to Carolina Hurricanes games