Steve Verbit is a seasoned presence on the sidelines of Princeton University football, marking his 40th year with the program. As the defensive coordinator and senior associate head coach, Verbit has witnessed the highs, including eight Ivy League titles, and the lows, notable for periods of struggle to maintain a .500 record.
“It feels like just yesterday that I was arriving at Princeton, and the time has flown by quickly,” reflected Verbit. He emphasizes the importance of creating memories through his coaching journey, cherishing the relationships he has formed with players who have become some of his closest friends.
With Princeton currently holding a 1-1 record, Verbit is focused on enhancing the defense ahead of their Ivy League opener against Columbia, also at 1-1. The season opener against San Diego provided a glimpse of his defensive strategy, as senior lineman Marco Scarano forced a fumble early in the game. However, a challenging second half saw San Diego rally for a 21-point surge, leading to Princeton’s defeat.
Despite the setback, Verbit noted that his players embodied the aggressive and technical style he preaches, highlighting their enthusiasm and engagement. “They come to practice each day with a smile and energy,” Verbit stated, expressing excitement for the remaining games this season.
Verbit’s coaching philosophy is intertwined with wisdom he received during his playing days at Delaware from the legendary Harold “Tubby” Raymond. Raymond instilled in him the notion that change is constant and encourages continuous personal improvement. This perspective has fostered Verbit’s commitment to lifelong learning, asserting that even with extensive experience, he is still discovering new coaching techniques.
Currently, he works alongside head coach Bob Surace, who achieved his 100th career victory after defeating Lafayette last week, aided significantly by Verbit’s defense, which delivered a key interception returned for a touchdown. Their camaraderie is rooted in a long history, with Surace once being a recruit under Verbit, and both sharing a mutual respect that has evolved into a deep friendship.
Verbit sees himself as a dynamic coach who prioritizes the collective success of the team over personal accolades, even questioning the need for attention surrounding his contributions. However, his personal joy shines through as he emphasizes the fulfillment of pursuing his passion for coaching every day. “I get to wake up excited for what I love to do,” Verbit shared, capturing the essence of his enduring dedication to the game and his players.