Coach spotlight

Coach Calvert - Defensive Backs Coach

Tell us how you discovered football

After I nearly lost a hand in a skateboarding accident the next logical step was to put some kit on and run at people!

And what attracted you to coaching football?

Doctors’ orders were to retire, so I stepped away from the sport, but after a couple of years out I realised I missed the family that football creates. So when our Defensive Coordinator Eli reached out about a coaching position I ripped his hand off. The chance to get to know my guys, how they operate and learn and tailoring my coaching points to the individual is a challenge that I relish.

Why the Giants, what brought you to Sheffield this year?

Technically the Giants came to me. I played for the old Sheffield football organisation before they became the Giants. Once a Giant, always a giant but I was drawn in by the culture - definitely a different vibe to previous years. People just want to play football and get 1% better every day. Makes your job as a coach so much easier.

How is this season going for you personally?

My guys make my job so easy, I could miss a session and they’d run it like I was there, so honestly it’s hard to say it’s anything other than great. When a coach and his players all grow together you know your unit is set for the long term.

What’s it like working with Coach Eli on defence?

I’ve known Eli for a long time, played with him, he’s been my DC as a player and now as a coach. From day 1 he’s trusted me to do my job and just let me get on with it, couldn’t ask for anything more.

How do you find coaching for the Giants compared to playing?

Honestly nothing comes close to playing, I’ve given my kit away to prevent me succumbing to the urge to kit up. But coaching is a different kind of fulfillment, now I do more work away from training, watching tape or learning more about the position and basically live vicariously through my guys. Luckily they all ball out so it makes it easier.

You’ve been involved with the Giants but also at the university level, how do they differ?

Uniball and senior ball are different for a variety of reasons. But the buy-in from the Giants guys this year is just on a different level to what I experienced at uni level. The overall desire to always get a little better is infectious.

Do you have any standout moments, as a player or a coach?

It was a long time ago, but I will never forget a game winning score for Tamworth get pulled back for a flag and the Giants getting a big upset win against the northern kings (at the time).

What are your thoughts on the game against Sandwell today?

After the disappointing start to the season, playoffs are still at the forefront of my mind. Regardless of who we play, if we prepare and do our jobs I think we come away with the dub. Sandwell are no different. But a shutout is the goal for the D, and as always I want the DBs on the scoresheet.

Finally, tell us something about you that fans of the Giants won’t know.

How is this the hardest question!? I’d say most people don’t know I used to live in France, and can (just about) speak fluent French. I also consume a bottle of hot sauce pretty much every day!

Name: Coach Calvert

Favourite NFL Team: Seattle Seahawks

COACHING :

Unit: Defensive Backs

University or College: Sheffield Hallam University Warriors

Years Coaching: 2

Giants Coaching Debut: 2023 versus Northants Knights

PLAYING : Position: Defensive Back

Number: 23/27

University/College Team: Sheffield Hallam University Warriors

Years Playing: 8

Giants Playing Debut: 2015