LARGO, FLA — Marcus Paschal finished his 10th season as Largo High School’s head football coach this school year.

He was recently recognized as the city of Largo’s Black History Month honoree during a commission meeting.

“I’m truly grateful to be honored with such an amazing award with so much meaning behind it,” said Paschal.

Paschal graduated from Largo High School and played football there. He went on to play in the NFL. Paschal uses what he’s learned in his professional football career to guide his current players.

“This is something that you could put in a storybook, you know, because I’ve been and played at the highest level and chose to come back home to try to give these guys and these girls some inspiration,” said Paschal.

In addition to coaching, Paschal teaches weightlifting classes at Largo High. He’s teaching his students proper form and nutrition.

“This is something that I always wanted to do, so this isn’t a job for me. This is something that was put on my heart at a young age and I just enjoy coming here every day to try to mentor the next generation of Largo Packers,” said Paschal.

Among his students are family members. His daughter, younger brother and niece are juniors. His brother is on the football team.

“It’s just definitely a blessing to be able to be hands on with them. I’m always hands on with everybody else’s kids but having that opportunity to be hands on with mine is definitely a great feeling,” said Paschal.

Paschal will tell you every student is family. Largo High and this community are part of who he is and he says he feels honored to live, coach and teach here.

“The field is an extension of the classroom and your best coaches are amazing teachers and that’s what I pride myself on,” said Paschal.