Coaching Legend Tom Craft Returns to Mentor Son at Riverside City

Coaching Legend Tom Craft Returns to Mentor Son at Riverside City

football Sep 6, 2025

The roar of the crowd, the echoing whistles, and the chalky lines of the football field — all familiar sights and sounds for Tom Craft, who once again finds himself in the realm he had momentarily left, thanks to a new chapter in his storied career.

Following in a Legend’s Footsteps

Football is a game of strategy, grit, and legacy. At Riverside City College, that legacy is deeply intertwined with the Craft family. Kevin Craft, the new head football coach, is charting new territory with his father’s indelible mentorship echoing every step he takes. “This is a really tough situation for him,” Tom Craft muses, acknowledging the unique challenges his son faces in following such a formidable act. Yet, he carries a torch that burns brightly with family pride.

A Legacy of Coaching Prowess

Tom Craft’s name reverberates through junior college football, having the best record through 30 seasons. His return to the field, not as the man in charge, but as a guiding light to his son, paints a poignant image of familial respect and dedication. “I don’t feel pressure to live up to what he’s done in the past,” Kevin shares, reflecting the humility and eagerness to carve his path while drawing from an unparalleled resource — his dad.

The Unbreakable Bond

Returning to the field is more than just a professional decision; for Tom, it’s a heartwarming continuation of a dream he never wanted to fade. “I wanted to stay connected… I really enjoy the kids and the coaching staff,” he shares, a sentiment that resonates deeply with anyone passionate about their life’s work. As Tom stands by Kevin, sporting the whistle that echoes a lifetime of victories, he embodies the lessons he’s imparted — resilience, perseverance, and the unyielding spirit of the game.

A New Era for Riverside

As both father and son navigate this new partnership, the Riverside community watches with anticipation and admiration. The story of Tom and Kevin Craft isn’t just about football; it’s about legacy, learning, and love. And as they take to the field, one thing is certain — the Tigers are in exceptional hands, guided by a lineage of excellence and the tenacity to triumph.

According to ABC7 Los Angeles, this remarkable return of a football legend to the field is more than just a familial affair; it’s an inspiring narrative of ongoing legacy and learning.

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