A Journey of Leadership and Hard Work
The Texas Longhorns have had an impressive run this football season, advancing all the way to the CFP semifinals. Although they were outplayed by Ohio State at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX, their journey to this point remains an exceptional achievement.
A key factor to their streak thus far is the result of their strong-willed defense led by Co Defensive Coordinator and Linebackers Coach, Johnny Nansen. Nansen has had quite a remarkable journey up to this point in his career which has inspired his team. He speaks on his inspirations in his coaching, the influences from his Samoan heritage, and the message he has for his players as they take on the next step in their journey.
To Coach Nansen, the accomplishment of reaching the semi-finals not only meant success but a reflection of their hard work and determination. When asked about what it meant to be a part of the top four teams in the country Nansen expressed excitement and pride.
“All your life you’ve been working for something like this— an opportunity to make it to this stage, top 4 teams in the country. I’m excited! The players and our coaching staff did an unbelievable job to get to this point, and I’m really really glad that we’re here,” said Nansen.
This moment has made a profound impact on him as a coach.
Coach Nansen’s path to the College Football Playoff was far from conventional. As a child in Samoa, Nansen never imagined he would end up coaching at the highest levels of college football in the United States. He reflected on the challenges and opportunities that shaped him into the coach he is today.
“Growing up in Samoa, having the opportunity to move here when I was a young kid, I never thought I would be at this point,” Nansen said.
“But through the support of my family and the opportunity that was given to me, I try to make the most out of it. I was the first to go to college, and that kind of opened my eyes to the opportunity to coach and lead. Giving that same opportunity to kids like myself is what motivated me to get into coaching.”
Nansen’s journey is a story of gratitude and inspiration. Humble beginnings and his dedication to providing for the next generation have been fundamental aspects in his career. “Never ever thought in a million years I’d be standing here in the semi-finals, but through the hard work and support from my team, coaches, and families that are invested in this, it makes it all worthwhile.”
Nansen’s Samoan heritage has been a foundation to his approach to coaching. Respect, hard work, and uplifting others are traits that were instilled in him by his family and community. These same values have become core principles in his leadership style.
“I think the respect I have for people comes from my upbringing. I’m thankful for my family and for the kids that I coach,” Nansen said. “The most rewarding thing is making an impact in their lives, and I think that’s something I really value. I have the opportunity to give hope and support to these kids, and that’s the same opportunity someone gave me to get me where I am today.”
As a defensive coordinator, Nansen has built a reputation for developing tough, disciplined, and cohesive defensive units. When asked how his defense has shaped the identity of the team this season, he pointed to the “4 T’s” that guide his coaching philosophy: playing TOUGH, playing TOGETHER, TRAINING with discipline, and TRUSTING one another.
“Hard work, playing together, playing tough, and trusting one another— that’s really what brings this defense together,” Nansen explained. “These are the principles I’ve carried throughout my career. We live by the 4 T’s, and that’s the foundation of everything we do.”
This commitment to toughness and discipline has been evident in the performance of Texas’ defense, which has played a critical role in the team’s success this season.
Being a part of the Polynesian community, Nansen understands the unique challenges that many of his players face when transitioning to a big program like Texas. He takes pride in helping them adjust while also maintaining their cultural identity.
“Just believe in yourselves. You’re the reason you’re here, and you’re just as great as anyone else. My advice to them is to stick together, trust in the process, and everything else will fall into place,” said Nansen.
He understands that for many Polynesian players, the cultural shift can be challenging, but he emphasizes the importance of believing in their abilities and staying grounded in who they are.
As the team prepared for the College Football Playoff semi-finals, Nansen offers a powerful message to his players: enjoy the journey. With the long season and the intensity of the upcoming games, he encourages them to savor every moment.
“Enjoy the moment. Enjoy the hard work and the investment you’ve made,” he said. “We’re in our 24th or 25th week of football, 16 games— that’s a lot! So enjoy the experience, the stadium, the meetings, the one last time that you get to meet with your teammates, the meals— just everything that we’re doing together. Enjoy! These don’t happen very often, we’re lucky and fortunate to be in this position.”
His message reinforces the importance of staying focused on the process. Rather than being overwhelmed by the occasion, appreciate the opportunity.
As someone who has carved out a successful coaching career, Nansen has some powerful advice for young Polynesian athletes and aspiring coaches looking to follow in his footsteps.
“Believe in you. Be you. Don’t change for anyone. Keep dreaming big. Put your head down, work hard, and believe in who you are. Pray to God for the blessings, because those are the things that are important,” Nansen shared.
His words reflect the determination and faith that have guided his career, and they are a testament to his commitment to inspiring the next generation of coaches and players.
Johnny Nansen’s journey from Samoa to the College Football Playoff semi-finals is a story of perseverance, dedication, and leadership. As Texas’ Co-Defensive Coordinator, he has not only developed a tough, disciplined defense but also shaped young men’s lives through his approach to coaching and mentoring. With his blend of cultural pride, coaching expertise, and unwavering belief in the power of hard work, Nansen is a true role model for both his players and future generations of coaches.
Fun Questions: Getting to Know Coach Nansen
Beyond football, Nansen has some personal favorites that reflect his Polynesian roots. When asked about his favorite Samoan dish, he didn’t hesitate: “Pisupo and Palusami.”
As for music, he enjoys a mix of Polynesian artists like J Boog, Will84, and Fiji, which also helps get him in the zone before big games. “I listen to Samoan music,” he said with a smile.
Photo Credits: Texas Football, Getty, YouTube
