Nominate an Athlete for the All State Game

In the world of youth football, few names embody passion, perseverance, and purpose quite like Coach Wilbert “Willy Will” Granger of Englewood, Colorado. A dynamic leader whose life bridges athletics, entertainment, and mentorship, Granger’s journey reflects the power of sport to shape not only players—but entire communities. As a confirmed coach for the 2026 All State Game, Coach Granger is set to bring his wealth of experience, creative energy, and developmental philosophy to the next generation of rising stars.

A Foundation Built on Excellence

Originally from Aurora, Colorado, Granger began his athletic career at Grandview High School, where he was a standout multi-sport athlete, excelling in football, basketball, and track. His exceptional performances earned him numerous academic and athletic awards, multiple scholarship offers, and ultimately an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy under the legendary Coach Fisher DeBerry. Granger later transferred to the University of South Dakota, where he achieved a North Central Conference Championship under Coach Ed Meierkort—cementing his reputation as a fierce competitor and disciplined leader.

From the Field to the Entertainment Industry

After college, Granger’s ambitions took him to Southern Los Angeles, where he founded No Time For Rest LLC (N.T.F.R Lyfe) in 2010—a company blending sports, entertainment, and branding. His entrepreneurial journey evolved into youth sports development through Evolution Player Optimization (Sports Stable, 2019–2023), where he combined his business acumen with his love of coaching to create programs that emphasize both athletic skill and life readiness.

A Return to Colorado—and a Renewed Mission

In 2021, after 17 years in California, Granger made a pivotal decision to return to Colorado with his family, prioritizing his sons’ education and opportunities. A proud alum of the Cherry Creek School District, he wanted his children—Leandro, Sebastian, and Jensen—to grow up surrounded by the same community values that shaped his youth. Since returning, he has poured his energy into Colorado’s football scene, earning a reputation as a coach who not only develops athletes but also invests deeply in their character and confidence.

Granger maintains active coaching certifications at both the state and national levels, with assistant coaching credits at Montbello High School, Smoky Hill High School, and elite programs such as Ed McCaffery’s Sports Eddy Camps (2023 & 2024), Purdue University Summer Camp (2023), and the University of Northern Colorado Prospect Combine (2024). His dedication to professional growth is evident—he attends the Glazier Coaching Clinics annually and has observed spring practices at Iowa State, University of Colorado, and Colorado State University.

Coaching Philosophy and Leadership

Known for his energy and innovative approach, Coach Granger emphasizes player development, discipline, and creativity. His methods blend traditional football fundamentals with modern training techniques, allowing athletes to develop not only physically but mentally and emotionally. His players praise his ability to connect with them on a personal level—motivating through authenticity and passion rather than authority alone.

“I’m always learning,” says Granger. “Every season, every player teaches me something new. My goal is to help these young athletes realize that football is more than a game—it’s preparation for life.”

A Growing Legacy

Granger’s leadership has already extended beyond state borders. He has coached the CYFI All Stars (6th Grade), the NoCo All Star 9U Team in Texas for the Southwest Showcase’s 5th Anniversary, and now proudly joins the All State Game (8th Grade) coaching roster for 2026. His son, Sebastian Granger, also continues the family tradition, earning recognition as a youth standout in his own right.

Looking Ahead to the 2026 All State Game

As Coach Granger steps onto the sidelines for the 2026 All State Game, his focus remains on elevating young athletes—on and off the field. His career is a testament to the idea that excellence is born from resilience, and that mentorship can transform lives long after the final whistle.

Coach Wilbert “Willy Will” Granger’s story is one of vision, dedication, and impact. From Aurora’s fields to the national stage, his journey continues to inspire, proving that true coaching extends far beyond the scoreboard—it’s about building champions in life.