EVERETT-Archbishop Murphy High School (AMHS) has been on a rampage this football season, capturing the Northwest 2A title with a 7-1 record and positioning themselves for a deep run in the playoffs; Head coach Joe Cronin has been instrumental in guiding the Wildcats’ success on the field. Currently, the Wildcats are making a run in the playoffs and will play in the quarter-finals next week against Lynden High School.
Last season, Cronin was honored as a “Coach of the Week” by the Seattle Seahawks as part of their “High School Coach of the Week” program, which recognizes exceptional high school coaches across Washington state. Cronin sees the recognition as a team effort.
“The award is really a credit to all the assistant coaches, players, and the school community. It takes a village! We all do it together,” Cronin said in an interview with the Lynnwood Times. “I was fortunate to be a Seahawks Coach of the Week in the 2012 and 2013 seasons at Cascade. It’s an awesome program that the Seahawks run, and I appreciate all their involvement in high school football.”
In addition to coaching, Cronin is the Vice President of the Washington State Football Coaches Association.
A Rich Coaching Background
Coach Joe Cronin brings extensive experience to AMHS, having worked in various coaching capacities. He began his career at Lake Stevens High School as the Defensive Coordinator from 2004 to 2011. Coaching at Lake Stevens was particularly meaningful for Cronin, as it is his hometown, and he also taught there.
He then took the head coaching position at Cascade High School in Everett from 2012 to 2013. Cronin knew the job would be a challenge, as Cascade had lost 25 straight before he took over.
“I took over the Cascade football team in 2012, which had lost 25 straight games, and we managed to go 5-5, then 10-2, losing to Camas in the state playoffs,” Cronin said.
However, after his daughter was born prematurely, Cronin stepped down from Cascade to be closer to his family. He moved to O’Dea High School in Seattle as the Associate Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator, where he spent the next several years.
A Return to Snohomish County
In 2023, Cronin became the head coach at AMHS, giving him the opportunity to return to his roots. He was excited to be back in his home county, guiding a new group of athletes.
Cronin strongly emphasizes relationships, both on and off the field.
“I’m really about relationships. My dad had a philosophy that ‘people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.’ I want to create a family atmosphere where we all support each other and work hard to continue to improve,” Cronin told the Lynnwood Times.
A Foundation Built on Hard Work and Support
Throughout his coaching career, Cronin has been fortunate to work with great coaches and players, which he credits for his development. Coaches like Paul Lawrence, Terry Ennis, Ken Collins, Tom Tri, and Monte Kohler have been major influences on his coaching style.
“I’ve learned a lot from those guys,” Cronin said. “And I’ve been lucky to work with some great players and assistant coaches.”
At the core of his coaching philosophy is a commitment to hard work and preparation. Cronin believes the key to success is ensuring his players are fully prepared for game day.
“Preparation is key. My goal is always to prepare our players as thoroughly as possible for Friday night games. My role is to make sure the team is ready to perform, and I strive to do that to the best of my ability each week,” he said.
The AMHS Advantage
Cronin has also noticed what sets AMHS apart from other programs, particularly in terms of academic and athletic support.
“I think the academics, school support, and teachers at AMHS are incredible. If you want a high-quality education with a great staff, there is no other place like it,” he said. “That helps our players, as they know they have options after high school, whether that’s the college route or something else. They’re well-prepared for life beyond high school, and working hard in the classroom sets the tone for working hard on the field.”
Jeff Latta, the AMHS Athletic Director, has also appreciated all that Cronin does to set his program apart.
“The preparation that he and his coaching staff put into practice and game plans… Our players are well prepared when they step on the field at all times,” said Latta. “Coach Cronin lays out clear expectations on what is expected from each member of the program,” he continued.
Building a Coaching Staff
As head coach, Cronin had to select his coaching staff carefully. His choices are based on a few key principles.
“I really want coaches who are good with players first. It’s all about relationships, and we need that first,” Cronin said. “I also want coaches who are willing to work together and put their egos aside. Egos can ruin a team, and we’re all in this together. It helps create a family atmosphere, and I’ve been fortunate to have great assistants everywhere, including at AMHS.”
“We have very dedicated assistants as well. Our coaching staff works together to get the best out of our student-athletes,” said Athletic Director Latta.
With Coach Joe Cronin at the helm, the AMHS Wildcats are primed for success on the field and in their personal development. His experience, philosophy, and leadership continue to shape a program committed to excellence in every aspect of the game.
Author: Merrick Parnell
