Marlando Stiles exemplifies what it means to continue serving through leadership, mentorship, and sport. A retired U.S. Navy Yeoman First Class, Stiles has translated the structure, discipline, and people-first leadership instilled during his military career into nearly two decades of coaching across football, softball, and basketball. From leading youth athletes as an FBU 10U Florida National Team offensive line coach to shaping high school programs at Horizon High School, his impact reaches far beyond wins and losses. Through Soldiers To Sidelines, Marlando rediscovered his purpose after transitioning from active service, finding renewed confidence, community, and a meaningful way to give back. His passion for developing athletes as people, building strong team cultures, and helping others—especially veterans—continue to serve makes him a deserving Soldier Coach of the Month for December 2025. Continue reading the interview below to learn more about Coach Stiles.
STS: Tell your story about how and why you go into coaching. Discuss how coaching has impacted you as a person.
Coach Stiles: Coaching for me started as a way to stay involved with my kids and sports early on while serving in the Navy, but it quickly became something much bigger for me, It quickly became a passion. Leadership and mentorship were already a big part of my life from the military, and coaching felt like a natural extension of that. Coaching has made me a better person. It has challenged me to be more patient, more intentional, and more self-aware. It constantly reminds me that this is about people first, not just athletes.
STS: How has your military experience influenced you as a coach?
Coach Stiles: The Navy shaped how I lead. I coach with structure, discipline, and clear expectations, but I also understand that every player is different. The military taught me that trust, accountability, and preparation matter, but so does taking care of your people.
STS: How has Soldiers To Sidelines impacted your life?
Coach Stiles: Soldiers To Sidelines helped me find my footing after transitioning out of the military. It gave me confidence, community, and a reminder that serving still matters outside the military. STS helped me connect with my purpose and surround myself with people who understand the journey.
STS: Describe a coaching interaction with a player, or group of players, that has a special place in your heart?
Coach Stiles: Some of the most meaningful moments for me have come from working with players who struggled with confidence or couldn’t maximize their potential. Watching an athlete go from doubting themselves to the lightbulb moment when things start to click from their hard work is incredibly powerful. Those moments, when players realize their own potential, are why I coach.
STS: What are your aspirations in coaching?
Coach Stiles: I want to keep growing as a coach and get an opportunity to coach at the highest level I can, in football, softball, or both. More than anything, I want to help build a strong culture in programs and mentor athletes through sports, and help other veterans with that passion for coaching to continue serving through coaching.
STS: What was the most difficult challenge you have experienced in coaching and what have you learned from that experience?
Coach Stiles: Coaching through tough seasons where the effort was there but the results were not is the hardest. Keeping athletes focused on the process, not the scoreboard, and how important it is to continue to lead with consistency even when things are hard.
STS: Is there anything else you can share with us about your coaching story?
Coach Stiles: Being part of Soldiers To Sidelines has reminded me that leadership does not end when the uniform comes off. I am proud to be a Soldier Coach and grateful to the mentors, fellow coaches, and athletes who have been a part of my journey.
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