Article

Photo Information

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Nathan Blackwell, commanding officer of Recruiting Station Milwaukee, discusses leadership and teamwork fundamentals during an on field interview at the Wisconsin Football Coaches Association All Star Game, in Oshkosh, Wisc., July 20, 2024. During the WFCA All Star Game Blackwell emphasized the importance of discipline and teamwork and how this relates to the Marine Corps and athletics. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Collette Hagen)

Photo by Cpl. Collette Hagen

From the Gridiron to the Frontline: Football and the Marine Corps

10 Jan 2025 | Sgt. Collette Hagen 9th Marine Corps District

RS MILWAUKEE – Milwaukee, WI – Football has always been a part of Maj. Nate Blackwell’s life. Growing up in Fredonia, Kansas, Blackwell had the privilege of experiencing the game firsthand while his father coached middle and high school football. Blackwell was a multisport student-athlete in high school, which set him up for success when he enlisted in 2003.

After his first five years as an enlisted Marine, Blackwell attended Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence, Kansas. During this time, he played on the offensive line and on special teams. While on the team, Blackwell continued to pursue leadership opportunities. In 2011, he led the off-season strength and conditioning program as a student coach.

Throughout his 20-year career, Blackwell has held various operational billets, including with a sniper team, multiple command assignments, and as operations officer for a light armored reconnaissance battalion. Blackwell’s love for the game has continued during his Marine Corps career. In the 2024 season, Blackwell served as the leadership coordinator for the Lafayette Central Catholic High School football team in Lafayette, Indiana. The Knights finished their season at 11-1. His passion for coaching has only grown, and Blackwell aspires to continue developing young athletes following his retirement from the Corps.

“The thing I enjoy most about leading young people is helping them build self-confidence and exceed their own expectations,” said Maj. Nate Blackwell, commanding officer of Recruiting Station Milwaukee. "I want to help young players not only on the field but in life, guiding them to be leaders who know how to work as a team and persevere," said Blackwell.

Coaches interested in learning more about Blackwell’s experience and insights are encouraged to attend his upcoming speaking sessions at the Chicago Glazier Clinics. He will speak on developing a player-led culture and strategies for building a confident and disciplined team, drawing from his unique background in both football and the Marine Corps.

For more information on the Chicago Glazier Clinic visit:
https://www.glazierclinics.com/coaching-clinics/chicago-2025-february
https://www.glazierclinics.com/coaching-clinics/chicago-2025-march


Tags
9th Marine Corps District