Kalen DeBoer’s rise to become the next head coach of Alabama football is a story of perseverance, dedication, and unwavering belief. Despite the rapid transition that saw him named the Crimson Tide’s head coach in just two days, DeBoer’s career has been anything but an overnight success. His path, marked by significant milestones and a relentless pursuit of excellence, has prepared him for this pinnacle moment in his coaching journey.
In a recent interview with Joel Klatt on ‘Big Noon Conversations’, DeBoer reflected on his journey and what it means to succeed the legendary Nick Saban at Alabama. He acknowledged that while his past self might have been astonished at the prospect, his core belief in limitless possibilities has always fueled his ambition.
“I would have been really surprised, you know, that things obviously worked out in a special way. But I’d also know that anything is possible,” DeBoer remarked. “So, yeah, it would have been a little bit crazy if you’d have said that. But I also know that anything is possible.”
DeBoer’s coaching career began at the University of Sioux Falls, where he learned firsthand about achieving the seemingly impossible. Leading a small college to multiple national championships underscored the potential for extraordinary accomplishments, regardless of the starting point.
“I learned that way back being at the University of Sioux Falls where a place like that really had no business at one point winning national championships, even at the small college level – doing that, it happening over and over and over again there,” DeBoer said.
From Sioux Falls, DeBoer steadily ascended through the coaching ranks, with stints at Southern Illinois, Eastern Michigan, and Fresno State. His transition to the Power Five conferences saw him at Indiana and Washington, where his successes continued to build his reputation. These experiences cumulatively led to his selection as Alabama’s head coach in early January, a role he attributes to his commitment to each position he held along the way.
“It really wouldn’t have been about reaching that goal if you’d have told me if you do this, this, and this. It would have been just about pouring everything into the moments you’re in at that time,” DeBoer explained.
DeBoer emphasized the importance of focus and enjoyment in the coaching profession. He observed that those who stress about their career trajectory or comparisons to others often lose the joy and effectiveness of their current roles.
“When you start pressing? You see this with players but especially coaches throughout the 20-plus years I’ve been doing this. When they start thinking about what’s next and how their career path right now isn’t in line with other people they compare themselves to? Or it has gone the wrong way for a year or two? That stress level – they’re not enjoying the job,” he elaborated. “When you’re enjoying the job, that’s when you do your best work. You know, just things fall into place because your best work is going to lead to success.”
The unexpected nature of his current role at Alabama has given DeBoer a chance to reflect on his journey and appreciate the challenges and triumphs that brought him here.
“Anything is possible, you know? I am very blessed, certainly, to be in this spot,” DeBoer stated. “A lot of great things have fallen into place. I’ve been around a lot of great people.”
As he prepares to lead Alabama football into the 2024 season, DeBoer’s story serves as an inspiring testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of enjoying the journey, and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead for those who dare to dream big.