Coach Aaron Hazel

“THE POWER OF THE TEAM” Thank you to Coach Aaron Hazel, Head Football Coach at Nelson HS. Episode 25 out now! Link in Bio 🤙🏽 Coach Hazel became the program’s inaugural head coach when the school opened in 2021, taking on the challenge of building a new football team from the ground up in the competitive 6A Mt. Hood Conference. Prior to Nelson, Coach Hazel served as head coach at La Salle Catholic College Prep (where he also played quarterback) compiling a 27-35 record over nine years. Prior to La Salle he assisted at Skyview High School in Vancouver, WA. Under his leadership, the Hawks have shown steady progress. In 2025—the program’s fifth season— Coach Hazel guided Nelson to its first 10-win season and a Semi-Final appearance, earning recognition as a candidate for Oregon high school football Coach of the Year and sharing Mt. Hood Conference Co-Coach of the Year honors. Coach Hazel teaches College and Career Readiness at the school. He also serves as the Head Softball Coach and is the announcer for Basketball games. Takeaways: 🏈Challenges of building a program from the ground up 🏈Coaching is about Inspiring and Making an Impact 🏈Feedback should be continuous, not just at the end of the season. 🏈Core Values: Extreme Ownership, Power the Team, Passion for Growth 🏈Pistos: The Act of Belief 🏈Post Practice: Teammates Highlighting Teammates 🏈Culture: Define It! It’s Intentional or it’s Default 🏈Event + Response = Outcome (E+R=O) 🏈Kids want to fit in and then stand out where they fit in 🏈Navigating Recruiting Challenges 🏈Off Season Program: Point system to hold players accountable 🏈The Power of Gratitude 🏈One Formation Challenge 🏈Changes in High School Football 🏈Handling a Loss: “What If” #highschoolfootball🏈 #coaching #leadership #team #teamculture

Excited to announce I have committed to @LinfieldFB!! Thank you for the opportunity to play at the next level @CoachFendall @nelsonHawksFB @gwatts9_ @ahaze14 Go Cats!🔴🟣

My best advice to recruits is always go where you’re truly wanted. That simple #PonyUp 🐎🆙

If you surround yourself with clowns, don't be surprised when your life resembles a circus.