GSL Coaches Corner: Ferris Coach Jim Sharkey Reloads - Spokane, North Idaho News & Weather KHQ.com

Over the years in the Spokane area, few high school sports teams have had as much success as the Ferris football team. That success is due in large part to Coach Jim Sharkey.

After back to back state championship game appearances, this year is somewhat of a rebuilding year for the Saxons.

"The tradition does help,"said Sharkey. "The kids' expectations are always high at Ferris, and they have been since I've been here and from before then. With each group of kids we just try to take each group separately and find their strengths and weaknesses and work on those."

Sharkey said this year he tried to get back to the basics with a team that is young in all areas. And he is getting help with those basics from one of his former players, Ben Goodwin. Goodwin was an assistant until he recently left for school in Oregon, although he still gives quarterback reviews after every game in an effort to help his alma mater in any way he can.

One of the reasons the Ferris football team has been so successful, Sharkey says, is the hard work everyone puts into practice. Schoolwork is also a priority, as is community service.