Wins, losses, and everything in between — it’s enough to fill a script. But if there was ever a movie about their coaching career, who would star in it? Coaches shared their Hollywood picks.

When it comes to action-packed roles, Alleman head coach Tom Barber doesn’t hesitate. “Probably Vin Diesel. We have the same hairline. Kind of the same build. Probably a little stronger than me. Size-wise I might be four or five inches taller, but yeah, I think he’d probably be good for me.”

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Others take inspiration from football legends on the big screen. “Denzel Washington from Remember the Titans. He does a good job of that and has the same character I’d want to be,” Galesburg head coach Shawn Hickey says.

Sometimes the answers are totally off-the-wall, but still entertaining. “Holy smokes. That’s an off-the-wall one. I’m not sure. We’ll say Forrest Whitaker,” Rock Island coach Fritz Dieudonné laughs.

Some picks are based on charm and style rather than exact resemblance. “I don’t know. I’m sure a lot of people will have good opinions on that. Somebody I would choose is tall and handsome. Would fit the build even though it’s completely false,” Sterling head coach Jon Schlemmer admits.

Then there are the fun, personal nods. “That’s a great question. I’d go with Nick Sirrani. I know he’s not an actor, but people have said we look alike,” United Township head coach Nick Welch shares.

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And some leave it open for imagination. “Oh wow. That’s a tough one. I don’t know honestly. I’ve seen Matthew McConaughey as a football coach. He did a great job. Obviously we don’t have similarities when it comes to features. Anybody that can run around in shorts and a sweatshirt can pull it off,” Moline head coach Mike Morrissey says. Your twin brother Ryan Gosling? Yeah, that would be fine. My wife would definitely appreciate that one.”

Whether it’s a Hollywood action star, a beloved dramatic actor, or just a playful personal pick, these coaches prove that if their lives ever hit the big screen, the casting choices would be as fun and varied as the game itself.

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