larry
FITZMAURICE
24 years. To many, that’s a long time to be in one place, but to Coach Larry Fitzmaurice it wasn’t enough time with the team. Fitz coached at Conifer for 24 years, having a total of 146 wins and finishing his career with an undefeated regular season. “When you’re 9-0 you feel pretty good about yourself and we’re in the playoffs. We can play with just about any team,” Fitz said. Over the years, Fitz did more than teach the players about the game of football, he taught many of them about life. “There’s something new happening every day. The kids keep me young and it’s not just about teaching them the game of football but rather the game of life,” Fitz said.
your MOMENT
Over his 24 years, Coach Fitz has made an impact on players, coaches, and even the staff. Here are some memories that past players and staff had with Fitz.
“One day we had a very cold practice and after every practice we conditioned. So it was cold and everyone was hoping that the coaches would not make us do conditioning. Fitz lined everyone up and all the coaches were standing there and he said, “Go.” When we all had our backs to the coaches, he took off and ran to his car. Fitz and the rest of the coaches left us there and that was the end of practice.” - Brandon Payer, Class of 2014
“The biggest impact that coach Fitz had on me was telling me that no matter how many times or how hard I get pushed down, to get back up and push harder and to fight back harder. When we would go into a playoff round, he’d tell us four more games, and that would kind of give us a light of hope. His favorite quote is by Judas Priest and that always brings back memories.” - Matthew McClintock, Class of 2014
“Fitz was like a second dad to me. He didn’t just help me get better at football but he mentally helped me stay out of trouble and helped me get on the path I’m on now to my future. He truly is an amazing man and helps you in any way you need. My favorite memory with Fitz was when we went to Elway’s with Kailib, Kragel, Manier, and him, of course. We just sat around talking about life and enjoying the night.” - Richie Benson, Class of 2015
“We had a huge comeback win against LuthereanHigh School, and it really defined our whole season. We came up with the phrase “Shock The World”. As a football player Fitz not only taught me how to better my game but how to lose with dignity and always keep our heads up.” - Ian Smith, Class of 2014
“My favorite memory with Fitz is that he is just the most amazing football coach, through the good and the bad. He’s always steady minded and the players just love him and that’s what I appreciate most about him.” - Dr. Mike Musick, Principal from 2007-2013
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