INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Maritime College Assistant Football Coach Jason Calman recently took part in the 2026 NCAA and NFL Coaches Academy.  Held from Feb. 18-20 in Indianapolis, the three-day professional development program brought together coaches from across the country to participate in leadership training, networking and conversations about the changing landscape of the sport.

"This was an amazing opportunity that I believe could really help a lot of coaches in the industry," Calman said.  "We ask our players to work on themselves all the time, and if we are not doing the same, I feel we are doing them a disservice.  That passion for learning and growing has always fueled my enthusiasm for this game, and it allows me to give players the best version of me possible."

Hosted annually by the NCAA and NFL, the academy provides current full-time coaches with educational opportunities designed to strengthen their ability to lead student-athletes both on and off the field.  Calman was one of 50 coaches, representing all levels of the NCAA (as well as some high school coaches), selected to participate.

"It was really refreshing to be surrounded by so many like-minded people who were also there to improve themselves," he said.  "We heard from many different speakers—who touched on many topics that hit close to home—and discussed some of the current events driving the college football world.  What an amazing experience that I hope more coaches take advantage of!"

Some of the industry leaders who spoke at the academy included Pro Football Hall of Fame coach Tony Dungy; Texas Tech Head Coach Joey McGuire; Indianapolis Colts General Manager Chris Ballard; Hampton Head Coach Van Malone; Miami Dolphins Coordinator of Player Engagement Kayla Henderson; Duke Director of Player Engagement John Battle; Crafting Lineman founder Torrian Wilson; Chad Pennington, former New York Jets quarterback and Head Coach at Sayre High School; Chad Chatlos, Managing Director of Athletics Administration and Coaching for TurnkeyZRG; and Elizabeth White, founder of The Well Counseling and Consulting Group.  They discussed topics such as leadership philosophy, communication styles and player development, as well as coaching strategies and the importance of athlete and coach well-being.

In addition to the structured programming, the academy provided the participants with opportunities to connect with NCAA and NFL executives, as well as fellow coaches from every level of college football in all areas of the country.  The program, which is open to a limited number of participants each year through a competitive application process, develops enhanced leadership skills, a deeper understanding of the coaching profession and a strong network of peers.  Many past participants have used the experience to advance their coaching careers at both the collegiate and professional levels.