Darryl Overton: What He Learned in Year One at St. James

Today I’m joined by St. James Performance Academy head football coach Darryl Overton to talk about the academy’s first year, what he learned, and what comes next.We discuss what daily life really looks like for a St. James athlete — academics, training, recovery and the challenge of creating a complete high school experience. Darryl explains why homecoming, team dinners, relationships and community still matter just as much to him as developing elite football players.We also tackle a bigger question: Is the academy model right for every athlete? Darryl discusses the players he looks for, why he encourages young athletes to play multiple sports, and his philosophy that players shouldn’t “chase money” but should instead chase the best version of themselves.Overton talks candidly about recruiting, the competition among St. James, Loudoun Sports Academy and St. Francis, and what he believes makes St. James different. We also discuss the lessons of year one and what he has learned coaching against national competition.Finally, we preview a loaded 2026 schedule featuring IMG Academy, St. Francis and other national opponents, and some of the players he’s especially excited about this season.