Seth Coffing grew up in Fort Wayne, Indiana, a city known for its rich basketball tradition. From an early age, Seth developed a love for the game, playing countless hours at local courts and emulating his favorite NBA stars.
- Background and History
- College Years
- Coaching at Bishop Luers
- Bow Hunting
- Seth’s Five Tips For Preserving Meat
- Family Life
- Community Involvement in Fort Wayne
- Conclusion
Background and History
By high school, Seth had made a name for himself on the varsity basketball team. His teammates relied on his cool under pressure, especially during a pivotal regional championship game his junior year.
In that game, Seth’s team was down by one point with seconds to go. The ball was inbounded to Seth, who sank a three-pointer at the buzzer. “It was the kind of moment you dream about as a kid,” Seth recalled. That victory not only secured the championship but also left a lasting impression on Seth about the power of teamwork and determination.
Off the court, Seth excelled in academics, particularly in history and biology. His high school teachers often described him as a natural leader with a quiet confidence, someone who inspired those around him. “Seth wasn’t just a basketball player; he was the kind of student who brought out the best in others,” said Mr. Thompson, his history teacher.
College Years
After high school, Seth attended Grand Valley State University in Michigan, where he majored in business administration. While academics remained a priority, Seth often credits his time at college for the lifelong friendships he made. Whether it was late-night study sessions, weekend road trips, or pick-up games at the campus gym, Seth and his friends bonded over shared experiences.
One standout friendship was with his roommate, Jake Matthews. “Jake and I didn’t know each other before college, but we quickly became like brothers,” Seth said. The two remain close to this day, often reminiscing about their college escapades, including an ill-fated camping trip that resulted in them getting lost in the woods overnight. “It’s funny now, but at the time, we were panicking,” Seth said with a laugh.
These relationships have not only enriched Seth’s personal life but have also shaped his professional network. “The people I met at Grand Valley are more than friends—they’re family. I’m grateful for those bonds every day.”
Coaching at Bishop Luers
Seth reflects on the team’s success, emphasizing strong teamwork, ball-sharing, and effective transition play.
He praises their disciplined shot selection and highlights a top opponent, Caleb Iman, a dominant post player. Key strategies include physical defense inside, guarding the perimeter, and contesting three-pointers.
Discussing the upcoming rivalry game, he underscores its significance for players, alumni, and fans, expecting a packed crowd. The coach stresses staying focused on the present game, given the competitive league.
He notes growing support from fans due to the team’s exciting play style and anticipates an electric atmosphere for the girl-boy doubleheader and feeder school night.
Bow Hunting
One of Seth Coffing’s greatest passions is bow hunting. This hobby began as a way to connect with nature and challenge himself physically and mentally. “Bow hunting teaches you patience,” Seth explained. “It’s about more than just the hunt; it’s about respecting the environment and understanding the balance of ecosystems.”
Seth prides himself on ethical hunting practices and ensures that no part of the animal goes to waste. He has become skilled at processing and preserving meat, often sharing venison jerky or homemade sausages with family and friends. For Seth, the satisfaction of preparing a meal from game he hunted himself is unparalleled.
Hunting trips also serve as a bonding experience for Seth and his friends. Every fall, they gather for an annual hunting expedition in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. These trips are filled with camaraderie, storytelling, and, of course, the thrill of the hunt. “There’s nothing quite like sitting around a campfire after a long day in the woods,” Seth said.
Seth’s Five Tips for Preserving Meat
Over the years, Seth has mastered several techniques for preserving meat, which he often shares with fellow hunters and friends.
Here are his top five tips:
1. Use Proper Cleaning Techniques:
Seth emphasizes that preserving meat starts in the field. “The sooner you clean the meat properly, the better it will taste and last,” he says. He ensures the animal is field-dressed promptly and kept cool to prevent spoilage.
2. Freeze Quickly and Correctly:
Freezing is one of the most reliable preservation methods. Seth advises vacuum-sealing the meat before freezing to reduce air exposure and extend its shelf life. “Invest in a good vacuum sealer—it makes all the difference,” he says.
3. Try Smoking the Meat:
Smoking is Seth’s favorite way to add flavor while preserving. “A slow, consistent smoke not only preserves the meat but also makes it taste amazing,” he explains. Seth prefers a blend of hickory and applewood for a rich, savory flavor.
4. Cure with Salt or Brine:
Salt curing is a traditional method Seth swears by. He often prepares venison bacon or jerky by curing it in a mix of salt, sugar, and spices. “It’s simple and brings out the natural flavor of the meat,” he says.
5. Dehydrate for Long-Term Storage:
For on-the-go snacks, Seth dehydrates thin strips of meat into jerky. He uses a food dehydrator and carefully seasons the strips beforehand. “Jerky is lightweight, delicious, and perfect for hunting trips,” Seth says.
With these techniques, Seth ensures that the fruits of his labor in the field are enjoyed for months to come.
Family Life
Seth’s family is the cornerstone of his life. He is married to his high school sweetheart, Emma, and together they have three children: two boys and a girl. “Emma is my rock,” Seth often says. “She’s been my biggest supporter through every challenge and triumph.”
Family weekends in the Coffing household are filled with activities, from backyard sports games to movie nights. Seth also enjoys teaching his kids the skills he’s learned over the years, whether it’s shooting a bow or cooking a hearty stew. “Passing on what I’ve learned to my kids is one of the greatest joys of my life,” he said.
Seth and Emma make a point of prioritizing family vacations, often heading to national parks or lakeside cabins. These trips offer an opportunity to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with each other. “Family is everything,” Seth said. “At the end of the day, they’re the reason I work so hard.”
Community Involvement in Fort Wayne
Seth believes in giving back to the community that shaped him. In Fort Wayne, Seth is actively involved in local initiatives, particularly those that support youth development. He serves as a volunteer coach for a local youth basketball league, helping young players build not only their skills on the court but also their confidence off it.
“Basketball taught me so much about life—discipline, teamwork, resilience,” Seth said. “Coaching is my way of passing those lessons on to the next generation.”
Seth is also a board member for a local nonprofit that provides outdoor education programs for underprivileged children. He frequently organizes fundraisers and leads workshops that teach kids about wildlife conservation, a cause close to his heart. “If we want to preserve our environment, we have to start by educating our kids,” he said.
Conclusion
Seth’s life is a testament to the power of passion, purpose, and perseverance. From his high school basketball days in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to his college friendships, his love for bow hunting, and his devotion to family and community, Seth has lived a life rich in experiences and relationships. As he puts it, “Success isn’t just about what you achieve; it’s about the people you impact along the way.”