Respect the Whistle:
Coaching, Leadership, and Game-Changing Impact

our story

Coach Ed Ficklin Jr Talking to Other Coaches about the story behind Respect the Whistle.

With over a decade of coaching experience across five states and both collegiate and high school levels, Coach Eddie Ficklin Jr. founded Respect the Whistle to restore respect and integrity to the coaching profession.

Inspired by his father’s legacy and driven by his own passion for athlete development, he believes that coaching is about more than just winning—it’s about leading with purpose, teaching life skills, and empowering the next generation.

Through Respect the Whistle, he aims to bridge the gap between coaches, athletes, and parents, and bring respect back to the heart of the game.

  • Leadership

    We lead with purpose, inspire others, and set the standard for excellence in all we do.

  • Integrity

    We commit to doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. Our character defines our actions.

  • Discipline

    We stay focused, consistent, and resilient, pushing ourselves and our athletes to achieve their best.

whatwe bring to you

player development

An athlete training with Coach Ed during Respect the Whistle's group trainings.

Helping athletes build discipline and character through personalized training and camps that focus on skill development, leadership, and mental toughness.

clinics and workshops

A coach speaking to parents and coaches during one of Respect the Whistle's clinics.

Empowering parents and coaches through dynamic clinics and workshops that inspire mentorship, strengthen communication, and build positive sports cultures.

Speaking engagements

Coach Eddie Ficklin Jr speaking at a conference for Respect the Whistle

Inspiring coaches, parents, and athletes to lead with integrity through impactful speaking engagements that emphasize leadership, resilience, and purpose-driven success.

Coaches, this one’s for you! 🔥 Every whistle you blow, every play you call, every lesson you teach—it all comes from a deeper purpose. Why do YOU coach? Is it the love of the game? The impact on athletes? The lessons beyond the field?
“Practice doesn’t make perfect. It makes improvement. If you’re not improving, you’re not really practicing.” – Coach Ed @coacheddieficklinjr Perfection isn’t the goal—growth is. Real practice means p
What does Respect the Whistle do? Simple: We help coaches lead, teach, and inspire the right way. 💯 ✅ Coaching Clinics & Workshops ✅ Speaking Engagements ✅ Mentorship & Development ✅ Resources & Training Guides ✅ Restoring Respect in
Throwback to our first tackling clinic—what a moment! 🏈🙌 It’s experiences like this that remind us why we started Respect the Whistle. Sharing knowledge, building skills, and seeing the impact firsthand is what this is all about. With
Hey, it’s Coach Ed here! 🏈 I’m thinking about hosting workshops or discussions for coaches and football enthusiasts like YOU. We’d cover everything from building program culture to managing players, parents, and leadership develop