A good coach is encouraging, patient, supportive, and respectful. They guide players with positivity and fairness, helping them grow both on and off the field.
An amazing coach is one in a million, and Papillion-La Vista High School is proud to call one of these coaches their own.
This fall PLHS welcomed back coach Josh Kage, who recently decided to return to coaching football. Junior Corryn Estelle is one of many students thrilled about his return.
“When I would have the correct form, he would start cheering me on and get excited for what I did,” Estelle said.
Kage coached Estelle in discus during her freshman and sophomore track seasons. At the same time, he had recently taken a step back from coaching the football team. After spending time away, he began to realize what he had been missing out on.
“I missed the sport so much, and I missed working with our athletes,” Kage said.
That passion for the game and for his students ultimately brought him back to the field.
“I love helping athletes be better,” Kage said. “That is a big part of why I coach and teach.”
Coming back to coaching was a big step, however it’s easy with the skills and the mindset that Kage has.
“I specifically love football,” he said. “I love the physicality, the tenacity, and the aggression it brings.”
The passion for the game itself is clear. The purpose football has in his life is large, and will continue to affect everyone he inspires.
“Football can teach you so many things about your life, your body, your mind, and how to control emotions,” Kage said.
Sometimes stepping away helps you realize just how much you miss something. For coach Kage, coming back to football has only strengthened his love for the game and his commitment to his players.
