The biggest shoes
The inside of the trophy case at the Mullan Pavilion is basically a living tribute to Coach John Drager, who was involved as an assistant with the 1965 A-4 State Championship team (pictured on the far right). In the background you can see the trophy from that year, as well as another photo — this one of the 1984 State Champion football team. Coach Drager really set a precedent for all those who follow him in Mullan Athletics.
Courtesy photo
MULLAN — Legendary Mullan Coach John Drager won more than 1,000 games, coached five undefeated football teams, was awarded Idaho Coach of the year 1983-1984, and North Idaho Coach of the Year in 1983. For decades, he was the Mullan Athletic Director, teacher, bus driver, head basketball and football coach.
What does it feel like to follow in the footsteps of someone as celebrated as Drager?
Stetson Spooner, Mullan Jr./Sr. High School activities director, head football coach, as well as health and P.E. teacher can answer that question.
"At times it has been intimidating to a degree. At the same time it fills a coach with pride and drive to always strive to match that type of dominance and greatness," Spooner said.
A multitude of coaches followed after Drager’s retirement. Guys like Bruce Bailey, Brian Arthun, Nobert Lane and Corey Miller are just a few of the names that stick out; But all of them had one thing in common — they had the utmost respect for Coach Drager.
"The way Coach is talked about and revered in our communities is sort of that level that all coaches want to reach,” Spooner said. “A legacy that lives on forever on and off the fields and courts."
It can be difficult not to feel the intense pressure of following in the footsteps of someone as renowned as Drager. The pressure felt was never amplified by Drager, who instead offered wisdom and kind words to those who followed him.
"The greatest thing about Coach was the pressure never came from him or anything he ever said. He is always supportive and encouraging,” Spooner said with a smile. “The pressure felt by his greatness is only there because of his accolades and many successes."
Personally, it was a bond created over similar work ethics and the timing that only comes from being an early riser.
"My relationship with Coach is a subtle and refreshing one. Meeting and talking with him during his post coaching career over these last 11 years, I have seen a very laid back, helpful and seemingly grateful man,” Spooner recalled. “His willingness to chat, share stories, and coaching tips was always on tap. Even at 5-6 a.m. in the locker room, when I was showing up for work, and he was leaving from his morning swim."
Spooner looks back fondly on the conversations with Drager and the anecdotes he shared with him.
"Numerous practice structure and defensive scheme ideas in the early years of being here came from him,” he remembered. “But honestly our talks (when I was lucky enough to bump into him) turned more into hearing stories where I would sit like a die hard fan of a band at a concert. We would also have great conversations about what was new in life and what's ahead in the future. "
Over the last few years Spooner has been restoring the glory to the Mullan Football Program, including three trips to the state playoffs, several top five ranked finishes, and moving several of his athletes on to college.
He looks at Drager as an example of how to do things the right way — and even has a tinge of jealousy for those who had the opportunity to play for Coach.
"I hope Coach knows that I have genuinely appreciated every talk we have ever had,” Spooner said. “How he is always so kind, supportive, and humble to me as I’ve tried to make this a better place than it was when I got here — just as he has. I would've loved to be coached by Drager at some point during my own football days."