Naval Station Great Lakes, IL -- The United States Marine Corps believes there is a clear parallel between the high school coach who develops student-athletes and the United States Marine Corps who develops elite warriors and quality citizens. The Semper Fi Coach Award is meant to recognize a high school coach who exemplifies the Marine Corps motto of Semper Fidelis – Always Faithful – and who models the Marine Corps leadership values of honor, courage, and commitment. On Wednesday March 22, 2023, Recruiting Station (RS) Milwaukee honored a coach that is building a lasting tradition through his selfless commitment to his team and his community. That coach is Matt Binsfeld from Kaukauna High School in Kaukauna, WI.
Coach Binsfeld took over the head football coaching position in Kaukauna six years ago. He coached in a very successful program at Wrightstown High School winning two state championships–one as an assistant and one as head coach. Matt graduated from Kaukauna in the mid 90’s and he took this position with the intention of rebuilding the program so that players could experience the thrill and pride he once felt while playing there. He is also the Kaukauna High School guidance counselor.
The reason for his success is that he has developed a program based on family. His players are committed to the program and it is bringing a sense of pride back to the community. All the players conduct themselves with class and do whatever it takes to make the team successful. He has been coaching for 19 years and has a career record of 85-43.
His favorite thing about coaching is by far the relationships created with players and watching them develop into young men. Coach Binsfeld stated that, “It is so rewarding to be around motivated young people working together to improve themselves and each other every day. I enjoy the journey of each team coming together and watching the kids grow throughout the year.”