Old Dominion University defensive coordinator Blake Seiler said on Apr. 17 that he has repeatedly turned down offers from larger football programs, choosing instead to remain at ODU because of his commitment to faith, family, and football.
Seiler’s decision comes at a time when college football coaches often move for higher salaries or more resources. He said his family’s happiness in Norfolk and their connection to the local church are central reasons for staying. “We keep our priorities, which are faith, family and football,” Seiler said. “And sometimes that’s hard to do. I’ve been doing this long enough that I know the grass isn’t always greener. So, when you’re in a good spot with good people, working at a University that provides so much support, there’s a lot of value in that.”
Seiler joined ODU with Head Coach Ricky Rahne in 2019 after coaching together at Kansas State. He described Rahne as an honorable man who puts family first—a key factor in his decision to join and stay with the Monarchs despite taking a pay cut from his previous position at West Virginia.
Family involvement is encouraged within the ODU program; coaches’ families are welcome around practices and certain times each week are set aside for them. Seiler emphasized the importance of these policies: “What we have here is a true blessing,” he said. “Coaching can divide families… You need to be able to see your kids.” His wife Inge also supports their choice: “We’re able to do that here… I don’t think there are a lot of places where you have a head coach who operates in a manner that allows you to have our faith and family as a priority.”
Seiler’s career path has included turning down secure jobs or scholarships elsewhere—first leaving Oklahoma State wrestling for Kansas State football without financial support, then leaving engineering for coaching despite initial unpaid work—and he credits these decisions with shaping his values.
Looking ahead, Seiler pointed out unfinished business after last season’s success: “But we didn’t come here just to go to bowl games,” he said. “We came here to build a championship program and achieve at the highest level… It’s important for us to beat those teams, win the East and get a chance to play in the championship game and go win it.”
