HAWTHORNE, Fla. — In the last two years, Cornelius Ingram has led the Hawthorne football and girls basketball teams to back-to-back state titles.
"The standard is set now. So, when the younger girls return next year, or the younger boys return next for football, our senior class, they've laid the foundation. And, it'll continue to stay that way," said Ingram.
Ingram took over the football program at his alma mater in 2014 and the girls basketball program two years later.
"Everything has changed. It's night and day from when I first took over. The school was on the verge of being shut down. The football program wasn't attractive at all. So, to be completely honest, winning national championships, playing on the biggest stages, I feel like these state championships are more sweeter for me," said the two-time football national champion.
A part of what makes the state titles sweet, is the support Ingram receives from his hometown.
"Because it's a tight-knit community, everyone knows what time we are practicing. So, if they see our kids at the restaurant, I'll get a call to the school like 'hey, I got a couple of your kids up here.' I'm like, relax, I gave them the day off. But that's the type of environment we're in, and I know for a fact that it's helped us win a lot of ball games," said Ingram.
Growing up in the same place his athletes gives Ingram a relatable perspective.
"I know what my kids are listening to. I know what they're wearing to school. I know what shoes, I know what they're watching on TV. I try to relate to the kids, and not only just through the particular sport they are playing for me, but when they are involved in any other after school activities," said Ingram.
And coach makes sure to show up.
"So, I've seen a lot of my football players sing in the choir, or a lot of my girls basketball players be on program at church. So, when you tell them you love them, and then they see you every single day, and then you show them you love them, you can get these kids to do anything. Anything," said Ingram.
With all the recent success, Ingram said he has received several phone calls and emails about new jobs, but says home is where he needs to be.