Leading with Integrity:
The Story Behind Respect the Whistle
meet the founder
Coach Eddie Ficklin Jr
With over a decade of coaching experience across five different states, Coach Ed has had the privilege of working at both the collegiate and high school levels. He’s proud to be part of the 7% of athletes who played college football, earning his degree while learning the discipline that comes with the game.
His journey also includes five years as a youth sports director, where he saw firsthand how critical fundamental training is to athlete development. This experience shaped his belief that while many invest in travel ball, it’s the basics that truly prepare young athletes for success.
Outside of coaching, he serves as a full-time educator and Assistant Dean, roles that further fuel his passion for shaping the lives of young people. When he’s not working, he cherishes the time spent with his wonderful wife, Lauren, and bonus daughter, Ava, who he considers to be the greatest blessings in his life. Music, sports, and video games also help keep him balanced and grounded.
The Story and Mission
Behind Respect the Whistle
In the coaching world, a common phrase is ‘Iron sharpens iron.’ For a long time, Coach Ed didn’t fully grasp its meaning. That changed when he started attending coaching clinics, where he developed his own phrase: ‘Coaches coach coaches—respect the whistle.’ He quickly realized how impactful that message could be. If coaches can put their egos aside and focus on learning from one another, they can restore the respect the profession deserves.
One of the key lessons Coach Ed has learned is the vital role coaches play in the lives of their players. Today’s athletes often feel like they hold all the leverage, but it’s the coaches who guide and develop them. Along the way, respect for coaches has diminished. Why are youth trainers sometimes valued more than high school coaches? Why do assistant coaches overstep? Or parents think they know better than the coach? Where is the loyalty to the profession that once existed?
The goal of Respect the Whistle is to bring back that respect—for coaches, for the game, and for the impact they have as mentors. The brand aims to bridge the gap between head coaches and assistants, recognizing the importance of each role. Someone has to lead, and someone has to follow, but everyone is on the same team. Respect the Whistle exists to remind coaches of their true value and the lasting impact they make on the lives of athletes.
our core values
Leadership
"We lead with purpose, always striving to set the right example on and off the field." Leadership means guiding with integrity and conviction. Coaches are role models not only in the game but in life. True leadership comes from building trust, fostering growth, and ensuring every athlete can achieve their best.
Integrity
"Doing the right thing—even when no one is watching—is at the core of what we believe." Integrity is the foundation of respect in coaching. It’s about honesty, accountability, and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism. We teach coaches to lead with character, so they can instill these values in the athletes they mentor.
Discipline
"Success is built on consistency, focus, and resilience." Discipline is the key to long-term growth, both for coaches and athletes. We believe that disciplined coaching creates disciplined teams, preparing athletes for success on the field and in life. By mastering the fundamentals, we build a strong foundation for future achievement.
Join the movement
At Respect the Whistle, we believe in restoring respect to coaching and empowering the next generation of athletes and leaders. This isn’t just a brand—it’s a community of coaches committed to leading with integrity and purpose. Whether you're a head coach, assistant coach, or aspiring coach, there's a place for you here.
Follow us on social media, attend upcoming events, and engage with our content to help us spread the message. Together, we can elevate the game and remind the world what it means to be a coach.