Meet the Coaches

Spencer Knibbe brings elite playing experience and proven coaching expertise to Trench Academy. A former Harvard offensive lineman and member of the 1997 Ivy League Championship team, Spencer's football journey began at Fork Union Military Academy, where he earned First Team All-State honors and was part of three state championship teams.

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His coaching career has spanned multiple levels, including collegiate experience at Western Connecticut State University and successful high school programs. As Run Game Coordinator and Head Varsity Offensive Line Coach at Ridgefield High School, Spencer helped lead the team to a 9-3 record and CIAC playoff berth while developing multiple Division I and FCS offensive linemen.

Beyond the field, Spencer's executive leadership experience as CEO of MBK Search brings a unique perspective to player development. His commitment to building complete student-athletes, combined with his deep understanding of offensive line play, drives Trench Academy's mission to develop the next generation of dominant offensive linemen.

Spencer holds a Bachelor's degree from Harvard University, where he graduated Cum Laude.

Mike Clare brings elite playing experience from football's highest levels to Trench Academy. A standout All-American and All-Ivy League offensive tackle at Harvard, Mike captained the Crimson during the 2000 season, leading from the trenches and setting the standard for offensive line excellence.

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His playing career continued in the NFL, where he developed his craft with the New England Patriots and Cleveland Browns, before also competing internationally with the Frankfurt Galaxy in NFL Europe. Throughout his three-year professional career, Mike refined the technical aspects of offensive line play under some of football's most respected coaches.

Following his playing career, Mike spent over a decade in leadership roles on Wall Street, including positions at Knight Capital Group and several other prominent firms. This unique combination of high-level football experience and business leadership shapes his approach to developing the next generation of offensive linemen.

At Trench Academy, Mike combines the technical expertise gained from his playing career with his passion for teaching the fundamentals of offensive line play, helping young athletes master their craft in the trenches.

Coming soon...