MORE THAN A GAME

After taking over as head coach of Clear Creek Amana’s football team in 2024, Lance Pedersen nearly doubled his team’s winning percentage from the previous year. But it seems that for Pedersen, football is far more than a game of wins and losses. 

Coach Pederson in the middle of coaching the varsity game. As of September 25, the Clippers are 4-1. Photo by Gabi Henriquez.

Pedersen grew up in West Branch, Iowa before attending Central College for one year, then transferring to the University of Northern Iowa to receive a degree in elementary education with a minor in physical education. He reported that, throughout that time, football was always a part of his life. 

Football has continued to be an important aspect of his life, but it is clear after learning more about him that it is not the only important part. Pedersen has been a volunteer firefighter for the Iowa County rescue for twenty years. Additionally, he spends his free time with his children or embarking on countless adventures. 

 What was most compelling about the conversation wasn’t his accomplishments or even his hobbies; instead, it was his extraordinary values surrounding his coaching. When asked what the most rewarding part of being a coach is, Pedersen answered with, “Seeing a kid gain confidence in themselves and bringing a bunch of individuals together as a team for a common goal.” Pedersen went on to mention many times that it is not always about the wins and the losses, rather the development the athletes make as humans. 

He also shared about the importance of character development in the football program, saying, “When people ask me if I have had a successful season, I say I will let them know in ten years. Are the guys we coached better fathers better husbands better community members because of our program? Are they giving back to their communities that they live in? If the answer is yes, then I consider the season to be successful.”  

Pedersen’s passion for his team is exceptionally profound. Through both his words and actions he demonstrated that, to him, it is not just about the sport you play or the activity you do, but rather how you develop as a human being because of these sports and activities.