Image courtesy of Governors Academy Athletics

I had a chance to catch up with new Governors Academy Coach Luke Boria on Sunday. Coach Boria was kind enough to answer some questions for us regarding his appointment as the new head football coach at Governors. 

Here is what Coach Boria had to say about his appointment and what he is looking forward to when it comes to leading the program moving forward. 

NEFJ: What does taking over at Governor’s Academy mean to you?

LB: “It’s an incredible honor to step into this role, especially following in the footsteps of Hall of Fame coach Jim O’Leary. From the moment I arrived, Coach O welcomed me and allowed me to be hands-on right away. We clicked instantly, and over the years, he became not just a great mentor but also a great friend. To continue the legacy he built is something I take immense pride in, and I can’t begin to express how excited I am for this opportunity.”

NEFJ: Have you had an opportunity to get in front of the players yet as their new head coach? 

LB: “We had a team meeting the other day, and I reminded the players that while I may hold the title of head coach, this is their team. I want them to take ownership and help drive what we do. Football has shaped so many aspects of my life, and I’ve been fortunate to learn from some of the best—coaches like Bill Ball (Exeter High School), JB Wells (former Endicott College coach), Kevin DeWall (Hobart and William Smith), and, of course, Coach O. I’ve seen firsthand how they inspire, challenge, and support their players, and I can’t wait to do the same for Govs Football.

Opportunities like this don’t just happen. While I’ve worked extremely hard to reach this point, I don’t take it for granted. I’m beyond grateful to the Govs administration for their trust in me. I look forward to leading this program.”

NEFJ: What’s your impression of the current state of the program?

LB: “We have a great group of student-athletes returning, and I can’t wait to see their growth and development. Getting hired late in the process presents some challenges, but I’m eager to build on the tradition of success that Govs Football is known for. I’m looking forward to sharing my vision with the players and watching them compete at a high level.”

NEFJ: What do you see as the logical next step for the program in the ISL?

LB: “The key for us moving forward is to maximize our time and effort through the winter, spring, and summer. I love multi-sport athletes and want to see our players competing and leading across different teams within Govs athletics. For those not currently on a team, I want them to take pride in their development in the weight room. Given how many of our players go both ways during the season, consistent training and preparation will be crucial. More than anything, we need to build on our culture of discipline, motivation, and accountability. The ISL is home to outstanding players and coaches, and I’m excited for the opportunity to compete at the highest level. I believe we really control 3 things: attitude, effort and preparation. Come this fall, all three will be seen through our play on the field.”

NEFJ: What are you most looking forward to as a head coach, especially at a school like Governor’s with so many talented young individuals?

LB: “For me, football has always been about relationships. The ability to be a positive influence in the lives of young student-athletes is an incredible honor—one that I don’t take lightly.

When the announcement was made that I’d be the next head coach, I heard from a lot of my former players, and it reinforced something I’ve always believed: football is about more than just X’s and O’s—it’s about the bonds you build and the lessons you take with you for life. My goal is to help these young men reach their full potential, both on and off the field. Of course, I hope to teach them a few things about football, but more importantly, I want them to know that I’ll always be there to support them—long after their playing days at Govs are over.”