Founder & Head Coach
Josh Gaines
Talent alone doesn't guarantee success. Athletes need fundamentals, football IQ, discipline, resilience and accountability. That's what we teach.
The story
From the Big Ten back to the trenches at home.
After a life in football — learning from Coach Larry Johnson and starting three years on a highly ranked Penn State defense — Josh returned home with experience he wanted to share.
He saw an opportunity to give athletes in Fort Wayne and the surrounding region focused, high-quality training for interior linemen and rush linebackers, and to help them prepare for the next level.
His coaching emphasizes individualized development, honest feedback, accountability, discipline and continuous improvement.
Penn State Nittany Lions
Defensive end and team captain. All-Big Ten Honorable Mention in 2007 and 2008. Part of the 2005 and 2008 Big Ten Championship teams. Coached by Larry Johnson.
Professional Football
Opportunities with the Philadelphia Eagles (NFL), Hamilton Tiger-Cats (CFL) and Pittsburgh Power (AFL), beginning in 2009.
2011 Under Armour All-America Game
Coaching experience at the national high school all-star event, working with elite talent.
Back Home in Fort Wayne
Founded The Trench Institute to build a stronger pipeline of line talent from Northeast Indiana.
Credentials
NFHS Certified
National Federation of State High School Associations
USA Football Certified
Fundamentals and responsible coaching
SMWW Football Scouting
Player evaluation and talent assessment
NCMFC Member
National Coalition of Minority Football Coaches
Affiliations reflect playing history, coaching experience, membership, education or certification — not current employment or endorsement.
Earn your spot. Own the trenches.
Start with a conversation.
Every athlete begins with a phone call with Coach Josh to talk goals, expectations and fit.