21 years ago, none of the students were born. But coach Tate Fischer was here drinking coffee and changing lives.

“Not many people can say that they have been somewhere as long as me,” Fischer said.

Since day one, Fischer has had the ability to inspire a passion for learning in his students.

“Until I started biology with coach Fischer my freshmen year, I thought I hated science, but after day one I found myself looking forward to his class every morning,” junior Jordan Cohen said.

Fischer has a talent with students of all types. His students say Fischer is not only an exceptional teacher, but a thoughtful listener as well. Any of them will tell you that Fischer has a knack for solving problems, whether it be class related or more personal matters.

“Without coach Fischer, I probably couldn’t have made it through high school this far,” senior Savannah Hobart said. “I know my sister couldn’t have.”

Known just as widely as his teaching skills is Fischer’s superior coaching ability.

“I’ve been coaching for a long time,” Fischer said. “I think we are a young in some key spots but I think given time and experience, I think we are going to get the ship headed in the right direction.”

This season Fischer will be coaching three defensive line for junior varsity and linebackers for varsity.

Fischer is proud of his team and always expects excellence from his players and students.

“I think it is one of the premier programs in the state,” Fischer said. “You cannot argue with our history and our past.”

Fischer plans to continue at Starkville High School inspiring and influencing for years to come.