Guided by Christ, Driven to Coach: Meet Todd Murrill

What year did you start coaching at Faith Christian School? I started coaching at Faith Christian School in the fall of 2024. I am so glad Jesus opened the door to coach here. 

Please briefly describe your journey to Faith Christian School and what attracted you to the school. My journey to FCS started with much prayer for guidance in Christ-centered coaching. I felt God’s leading to contact the athletic director. I knew that FCS had a strong Christian and educational foundation. I believed (and still do) that I can assist students to improve their football (soccer) skills in a God-centered environment.  

Where else have you coached prior to FCS? Some of the places I have coached are: Glenvar (where I currently teach 7th grade English), Staunton River, and William Byrd.  Travel teams have included:  Smith Mountain Jets, Valley AFC (now United), Roanoke Star (now United), Brista, and Vinton Vipers.  I have several coaching licenses and have received training from experienced coaches (international, national, and local).

What are your hobbies or things you enjoy outside of coaching? On a personal level, I love Manchester United (passed down to me from my English grandfather and mom), though they are currently not doing well. I enjoy watching Premier League football (soccer), fishing, gardening, reading, hiking, linguistics, science experiments, painting, and writing.

If you have a "life verse" or a verse that is ministering to you right now, what might it be? The verses that are currently ministering to me are: 

Humble yourself before the mighty hand of God and he will lift you up.  Casting your cares on him because he cares for you.  —1 Peter 5:7

He will keep you strong to the end, so that you will be blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.  —1 Corinthians 1:8

If you have a personal life's mission statement, what is it? One of my mission statements is:  In Him is life and the life is the light of men (John 1:4). In Jesus is found life and light, so I want to be transparent about His life and light.

One of my guiding teaching and coaching mission statements is from Picasso:  “I am always doing that which I cannot do, in order to learn how.”

Why do you love Faith Christian School, or what do you appreciate most about Faith Christian School and the athletes? I love coaching at Faith.  Furthermore, I love how FCS staff strive to put Christ first and aim for excellence.  Finally, I love Faith Christian School’s kiddos (who are eager to learn and enjoy my dry British humor).  God is good, and I’m glad to be here!