John Herbert – Carl Albert Football

By Bryce McKinnis

Carl Albert coach John Herbert is in his eighth year serving the football staff and seventh year as head golf coach.

He’s currently the Titans’ defensive coordinator. His father was a coach at Cameron University in the 1970s. His father-in-law, Clarence Madden is in the OCA Hall of Fame and coached alongside Herbert at Cache and Greenwood (Ark.). Both were major influences in his decision to become a coach.

“Sports are a great way to get young people involved in something greater than themselves. Working together for a common purpose,” Herbert said. “I hope that our athletes learn that character and toughness come from a disciplined approach to everyday life. Our program we hope strives to exemplify those qualities and I hope I am a good model of that for our players.”

Herbert’s family has deep ties in CAHS athletics. brother-in-law, Ryan Whitley, is the school’s head baseball coach. He and his wife, Jennifer, have two sons, Cade and Chase. Herbert also coaches physical science at CAHS.

“Educated young people make quality adults who can evaluate the decisions they make and how they affect all those around them,” Herbert said. “Without an educated society of people, only a few make the decisions for all.”

Herbert has had more than a few moments to write home about in his coaching career. He has been part of several state championships. But more importantly, seeing his student-athletes grow from that success into successful adults makes the job worthwhile.

“The greatest lesson I have learned is that in this job there are no shortcuts. If you want to be prepared and put your players in a position to win you have to be willing to spend the time it takes,” Herbert said. “Best advice I can give is to attach yourself to a mentor who exemplifies the qualities you want to have as a coach, and that you feel players will be drawn to. Have passion at your position.”