Calvert Football’s ‘Uncommonly Great’ Culture Fuels 2026 Expectations

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. — The Calvert High School football team enters the 2026 season with the same philosophy that has transformed the Cavaliers into one of the Southern Maryland Athletic Conference’s most consistent programs. Two years removed from a state championship appearance, Calvert is focused less on past accomplishments and more on the culture that head coach Rick Sneade believes will keep the Cavaliers competing for championships.

Before the start of the season, The BayNet spoke with Calvert High School head football coach Rick Sneade, who is entering his 15th season leading the Cavaliers.

Sneade began his coaching career in 1995 as a junior varsity assistant coach at Northern High School before joining Calvert High School as a varsity assistant coach in 1999. From 2002 to 2004, he served as a graduate assistant for the University of Maryland football program while also working as a strength and conditioning coach. He returned to the high school ranks in 2005 as a varsity assistant coach at Huntingtown High School before taking over as Calvert High School’s head coach in 2011. With more than three decades of coaching experience, he continues to lead the Cavaliers into the 2026 season.

When asked about his expectations for the upcoming season, Sneade said they have not changed.

“Our expectations for the 2026 season are no different than they have been for any team we’ve coached in the past. We expect to improve every single day and strive to be Uncommonly Great in the classroom, on the field, and throughout our community. Success isn’t about chasing outcomes—it’s about embracing the daily process and doing whatever is required to become the very best version of ourselves.”

The phrase “Uncommonly Great” has become the foundation of Calvert’s football program. According to Sneade, it means striving for excellence not only on the football field but also in the classroom and throughout the community. Each offseason, the program hosts a mulch sale to raise money while giving back to the community.

Every new season also brings new challenges and opportunities for improvement.

“Every team has its own unique identity and challenges. Rather than comparing this year’s team to last year’s, our focus is on helping this group maximize its potential. Looking back over the years, what stands out most isn’t wins or losses, it’s the growth of our student-athletes as young men. Our mission remains the same: mentor, develop, and lead them, trusting that the results will follow.”

The BayNet also asked Sneade about the biggest challenges facing his team this season.

“Playing in the SMAC means every Friday night is a challenge. Our conference is filled with well-coached, competitive football teams, and there are no easy games. Each opponent presents different strengths, so we must be prepared, disciplined, and ready to compete every week.”

Sneade also pointed to the Cavaliers’ roster size as another obstacle.

“Another challenge we face each year is roster size. With a smaller roster, practices require careful planning, and depth can become an issue when injuries occur. Our players often have to fill multiple roles, but they’ve consistently embraced that challenge with toughness and resilience.”

When asked what fans and students should expect this season, Sneade encouraged the community to rally behind the team.

“Get ready, because every football season brings new challenges, exciting moments, and unforgettable memories. Our players have worked extremely hard to prepare, and you can count on them to give everything they have every Friday night. We hope our fans and students will pack the stands, create an incredible atmosphere, and proudly support our Cavaliers all season long.”

As the 2026 season approaches, Calvert hopes its commitment to growth and consistency will translate into success on the field as the Cavaliers look to compete in the SMAC.

For more information, visit the team’s Instagram and Facebook.

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