Three coaches from St. Tammany Parish have been named finalists for the National Coach of the Year award by the National High School Athletic Coaches Association (NHSACA). This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of these coaches, who have achieved remarkable success in their respective sports. But what makes their stories truly fascinating is the personal journey and the impact they have on their players and communities. Let's take a closer look at these three exceptional coaches and the stories behind their achievements.
The Passionate Soccer Coach
Glenn "Benji" Benjamin, a 54-year-old Trinidad and Tobago native, has been coaching St. Scholastica's soccer team for the past five years. With an impressive 89-21-18 record, he has led the Doves to three consecutive LHSAA state soccer titles. But what makes Benjamin's story particularly inspiring is his passion for the sport and his commitment to his players. As he himself admits, "I was very surprised to be nominated for Coach of the Year. It was an incredible honor even to be mentioned." Benjamin's journey to becoming a coach is deeply personal, rooted in his own experiences as a member of the Trinidad and Tobago U20 national team.
Benjamin's impact extends beyond the soccer field. As the Mandeville Soccer Club Academy Director for the U9-U10 programs, he is nurturing the next generation of soccer players. His philosophy is simple yet powerful: "I had lots of meaningful discussions with some great coaches and met some truly fantastic people, sharing our coaching philosophies and expectations." This commitment to continuous learning and growth is what makes him such an exceptional coach.
The Inspirational Basketball Coach
Errol Gauff, a 57-year-old veteran coach, has been guiding Hannan's boys' basketball team for the past nine years. With a 189-105 record and state titles in 2022 and 2025, he has become a mentor and role model for his players. Gauff's journey to coaching is deeply personal, shaped by his own experiences and the support of his family. "It’s an absolute honor to make it as a finalist, representing our state," he says. "It was a special event, and fantastic being around so many deserving, top-notch coaches." Gauff's impact goes beyond the basketball court; he has become a symbol of perseverance and hard work for his players.
Gauff's philosophy is rooted in gratitude and humility. "I’ve been very fortunate as a coach and give all the glory to God. It’s about playing the game hard, the right way, and saying thank you." This commitment to integrity and respect is what makes him such a beloved coach. His wife, Medria, and daughter, Hailey, have played a crucial role in his success, sacrificing their own needs to support his coaching endeavors.
The Dedicated Volleyball Coach
Danny Tullis, a 53-year-old veteran of the volleyball coaching world, has won eight state championships in 27 seasons. With a career record of 786-177, he has become a legend in the sport. But what makes Tullis' story truly fascinating is his unwavering dedication to his players and the sport. "It’s a huge honor being nominated, and it’s exciting to be that highly thought of on a national level," he says. "To be in the same company with some of the best coaches in the nation makes me extremely proud and I’m extremely grateful."
Tullis' impact extends beyond the volleyball court. As a father of three children who have all played volleyball, he has instilled in them a love for the sport. "In our house, it’s God, family and then volleyball," he says. "Volleyball has always been an important part of our lives." Tullis' commitment to his family and the sport is what makes him such a respected coach. His coaching idol, Karch Karaly, a former Olympian, has had a profound influence on his approach to coaching.
A Broader Perspective
These three coaches from St. Tammany Parish represent a broader trend in the world of high school sports. Their stories are not just about winning championships or achieving personal success; they are about the impact they have on their players and communities. As Benjamin, Gauff, and Tullis demonstrate, coaching is a deeply personal and fulfilling endeavor. It is about nurturing talent, instilling values, and inspiring the next generation of athletes.
In my opinion, the NHSACA's recognition of these coaches is not just a celebration of their achievements but also a reminder of the power of mentorship and leadership. These coaches have not only achieved remarkable success on the field but have also become role models for their players and communities. Their stories are a testament to the transformative power of sports and the impact that dedicated coaches can have on the lives of young athletes.
