The Lakeland Lancers entered their 2008 football season with a returning group of core players. But that still left head coach Tom McCormack with some critical decisions.

The most important issue was: Who would become the Lancer quarterback? With the starting spot vacant, McCormack switched Dan Deighan from wide receiver to quarterback. It helped that Deighan was comfortable with the position, having come up through the youth level as a QB and already knowing the routes and reads from being a varsity wideout.

McCormack knew he had a special player. “Danny is a great athlete. We had to make the switch, we had to get the ball in the best player's hands,” said McCormack during pre-season drills.

The transition for Deighan was smooth, and the decision by McCormack the first of many that set the foundation for a very successful Lancer football season. McCormack guided Deighan and company to an 11-1 record, along the way picking up the school’s first-ever win over Delbarton. Lakeland earned the Northern Hills Conference-Suburban Division Championship and a trip to the North Jersey Section 1, Group III State Sectional Finals.

For McCormack it was his second trip to the finals as he helped the 2004 Lancers win the North 1, Group II title as the team’s offensive coordinator. In two years as Lakeland’s head football coach, McCormack has a stellar 18-4 record. McCormack is a great teacher and coach, spending countless hours working with young adults.

Coaching isn’t just X’s and O’s, part of it is bonding with players and making connections that they can reflect upon through life. It is also crucial to recognize your players’ talents and teach them to utilize their skills to the maximum effect on the football field. Tom McCormack of Lakeland Regional High School embodies the spirit of a great head coach. For his efforts he is the Jersey Sports Now 2008 football coach of the year! -- Casey deWaal for Jersey Sports Now