'Undefeated' Coach Bill Courtney: 'Life Goes On'
Coach Bill Courtney of the Oscar-winning film "Undefeated" has shared what life is like after starring in the football documentary.
"Undefeated" tells the story of the Manassas, Tenn., Tigers football team of underprivileged student-athletes and their inspirational coach.
After founding his company, Classic American Hardwoods Inc., the successful entrepreneur began volunteering at Manassas High School in 2004. Under his leadership with use of physical as well as emotional training, Courtney helped the Tigers find their footing and their confidence.
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While speaking to The Christian Post, Courtney described taking his sometimes daunting role as the coach of the Tigers. The father of four explained that coaching and fatherhood "goes hand-in-hand."
"Players win games, and coaches win players," Courtney poignantly stated, confirming that he is a father-figure to his team.
"The basic fundamentals of being a coach, a mentor, a father, it's a simultaneous effort," said the coach.
Speaking to CP just days after the "Best Documentary of the Year" Oscar win, Courtney explained that Sunday's Academy Awards was "just another moment in time" and that his life is not at all "Hollywood."
"[Winning the Oscar] was humbling, it was an honor, but life goes on. I run my business, I'm a coach," said Courtney. "It was nice and wonderful, and I hope that the film makes a difference, but I try not to take myself too seriously."
Courtney noted that that award is something to be proud of, but that his players graduating, going to college, and becoming successful adults is far more life-changing and important.
"We are glad that the story reached the country and inspired people, and we want to remember the selflessness, character, commitment, and discipline," said Courtney. "There was no script, we were just doing what we do."
In a recent interview with MSN, Courtney was propositioned to run for president of the U.S.
Laughing, Courtney explained CP, "I certainly don't hold myself as a moral authority; growing up I did some things that I wouldn't want anyone to know about and it would all come out if I ran."
The coach continued, "I think all those people (politicians) are disconnected with the world, I would end in incarcerated for losing it on a buffoon."
In theaters now, "Undefeated" remains a critically-acclaimed and emotionally-gripping film that the entire family can enjoy. Alongside Coach Courtney, the Dan Lindsay and T.J. Martin-directed film also sees Coach Mike Ray and players Montrail "Money," Chavis, and O.C.
