Steve Ensminger Jr. is a name that’s becoming increasingly well-known in the world of high school football coaching. The son of longtime college coach Steve Ensminger Sr., the younger Ensminger is carving out his impressive career path in the sport. Let’s take a closer look at who Steve Ensminger Jr. is, his background, and the coaching journey he’s undertaken so far.
Who is Steve Ensminger Jr.?
Steve Ensminger Jr. hails from a family with deep roots in football – his father Steve Ensminger Sr. was a quarterback at LSU in the 1970s who went on to a long coaching career at that school and others.
Growing up in this environment, the younger Ensminger was exposed to the world of football from a very early age. He absorbed knowledge and a passion for the game from his dad. Now he is putting that background to use in his own coaching career.
Early Life and Family Background
As mentioned, football is in Steve Ensminger Jr.’s blood. His father had a standout college playing career as a QB at LSU from 1976-1979. He then went straight into coaching, first as an assistant at his alma mater and then at other schools like Texas A&M, Clemson, and Georgia.
During these years, the Ensminger family moved around as Steve Sr.’s coaching career advanced. Young Steve Jr. therefore had a childhood that revolved heavily around football. He was a regular presence at team practices and games from a very early age.
This upbringing instilled in Ensminger Jr. a deep understanding of the game and the work that goes into coaching. Even as a kid, he knew he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a coach himself one day. His early life set the perfect stage for the coaching career to come.
Coaching Career and Achievements
Steve Ensminger Jr. started his coaching journey in 2016 as an offensive assistant at Ruston High School in Louisiana. He worked in that role for several years, learning the ropes of coaching and helping the team achieve success on the field.
In February 2022, Ensminger got his first big break when he was named the head football coach and athletic director at Cedar Creek School, also in Ruston. Taking over leadership of a program was a major step forward in his young career.
After two seasons at Cedar Creek, Ensminger made his next move in February 2024 when he accepted the quarterbacks coach position at Zachary High School. This was another leap forward, allowing him to focus on the QB position that he knows so well from his father’s playing and coaching days.
At each stop so far, Ensminger has earned praise for his football IQ, coaching acumen, and ability to connect with and motivate players. He’s seen as a rising star in the Louisiana high school coaching ranks with a very bright future ahead of him.
Personal Tragedy: Loss of Carley McCord
Amid his early coaching success, Steve Ensminger Jr. suffered a devastating personal loss. In December 2019, his sister-in-law Carley McCord was killed in a plane crash on the way to the Peach Bowl where Steve Ensminger Sr. was coaching.
The entire Ensminger family was rocked by this tragedy. Carley, who was married to Steve Jr.’s brother Steven, was a well-known sports reporter in Louisiana. Her death at age 30 in the crash was shocking and heartbreaking.
Steve Jr. and the whole family had to find ways to cope with their grief while still moving forward with their lives and careers. Football became a refuge and a way to honour Carley’s memory. The Ensmingers have worked to keep her legacy alive.
Married Life with Carley McCord
Steve Ensminger Jr. found love and partnership with Carley McCord, a talented sports journalist. Their marriage was filled with shared passions and mutual support. Tragically, Carley passed away in a plane crash in December 2019 while en route to cover a football game. Her loss deeply affected Steve and the entire Louisiana sports community.
In the face of this unimaginable grief, Steve showed remarkable strength and resilience. He honoured Carley’s memory by establishing the Carley McCord Memorial Scholarship, supporting aspiring female sports journalists.
Through this scholarship and by openly sharing his journey, Steve has helped keep Carley’s legacy alive while inspiring others facing loss. His grace and courage during such a difficult time have been an inspiration to many.
Social Media Presence and Advocacy
Beyond his coaching career, Steve Ensminger Jr. has used his platform to make a positive difference. On social media, he frequently shares motivational messages and insights from his football journey.
However, Steve’s online presence goes beyond just sports. He has become a vocal advocate for important causes close to his heart. In particular, Steve has been open about his struggles with depression and mental health challenges following the loss of his wife Carley. By candidly sharing his experiences, he aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage others to seek help when needed.
Steve’s vulnerability and willingness to have tough conversations have endeared him to fans and followers. His social media has become a space for meaningful dialogue and support within the community.
Impact on Louisiana High School Football
Steve Ensminger Jr.’s coaching career has been marked by success and positive influence, especially at the high school level in Louisiana. Most recently, he accepted the position of quarterbacks coach at Zachary High School. As a coach, Steve brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his players. Having grown up around the game and learning from his father, he has a deep understanding of offensive strategies and quarterback development.
But Steve’s impact goes beyond just X’s and O’s. He is known for his ability to connect with and mentor young athletes, both on and off the field. Players respect Steve for his authenticity, compassion, and dedication to their overall growth and well-being. He creates an environment where players feel supported and motivated to reach their full potential.
Through his coaching, Steve is shaping the next generation of Louisiana football talent. His influence extends far beyond wins and losses, as he helps mould young men of character and resilience
Net Worth of Steve Ensminger Jr.
While Steve Ensminger Jr.’s exact net worth is not publicly disclosed, his career and contributions suggest a life rich in impact and purpose. Beyond financial measures, Steve’s true wealth lies in the lives he touches and the legacy he is building. Whether through his coaching, his advocacy, or his journey of resilience, Steve continues to make a profound difference in his community.
Conclusion
Steve Ensminger Jr. has already accomplished a lot in his young coaching career. But in many ways, he is just getting started. With his football knowledge, experience, and ability to lead and inspire players, he has all the tools to keep rising in the coaching ranks.
While nothing is guaranteed, it seems likely that in the coming years, we will see Steve Ensminger Jr. continue to make a name for himself as a coach. He may move up to college coaching like his father, or he may continue to build his reputation at the high school level. Either way, he’s a coach to watch.
The tragic loss of his sister-in-law Carley McCord has undoubtedly left a permanent mark on Steve Jr. and his family. But it has also further motivated him to make the most of his opportunities and his talents. As he moves forward in coaching, he is carrying not just his family’s football legacy but also Carley’s memory with him.
