Football will take care of itself: A Coach's Guide to Fostering Academic Success and Personal Growth in Student- Athletes

This isn’t just a football book. It’s a blueprint for changing lives.

In the heart of Baltimore, Dr. Lawrence E. Smith coached a high school football program into a life-saving movement. Football Will Take Care of Itself is his deeply personal and powerful account of how sports can shape boys into men—when coaches lead with love, structure, and high expectations.

From losing his mentor and taking over as head coach at Paul Laurence Dunbar High School, to leading his team to multiple state championships and academic success, Dr. Smith shares hard-earned lessons on building a culture of excellence in places where kids are too often counted out.

This book is for:

Coaches who want to develop programs, not just plays

Parents seeking guidance on how to support their student-athletes

Educators, mentors, and school leaders dedicated to student development

Anyone who believes that athletics can—and should—prepare kids for life

With chapters on discipline, legacy, mentorship, academics, and leadership, this book offers more than inspiration—it offers a real plan.

“We didn’t just win games. We graduated scholars. We built men. And yes—football took care of itself.”