FORT BENNING, Ga., (May 13, 2015) -- Whether you call him coach or sir, Lt. Col. Robert Risdon is a leader on the battlefield and the playing field.

Working as the deputy commander for the Airborne and Ranger Training Brigade, Risdon's day usually consisted of all work and no play. All that changed last fall when he tried out for and made the Fort Benning Doughboy's football team.

"I got into football at the age of six," he said. "My father played football for the University of Notre Dame and as soon as I was big enough, he bought me a helmet and shoulder pads."

Risdon's playing time with the Doughboys was cut short due to an injury, but his dedication for and influence on the team never wavered. Trading in his helmet and shoulder pads for a whistle and clip board, Risdon's position changed from player to coach.

"I was given the opportunity to coach by head coach Jason Gibson who also coaches the Columbus Lions," Risdon said.

The Lions is Columbus' Professional Indoor football team and with the regular football season over, Risdon now gets to learn about arena football while serving as a volunteer coach.

"Leadership in football is similar to the Army in that you have to have the experience, education, schooling and tactics to do well as a coach," said Risdon. "Most importantly, you must have good people skills, be mentally and physically tough and be smart enough to make good decisions."

Risdon's positive energy and love for the game helped the Lions defeat the Lehigh Valley SteelHawks 45-35 May 10 and move back into first place. (6-2).

"Coach Risdon is a great asset to the team," said Alan Meek, Columbus Lions assistant director of Football Operations and offensive line coach. "He is a phenomenal leader, and shows he has a lot of heart even after getting hurt. I appreciate his dedication to not only the Lions but the Doughboys, we are lucky to have him."

Risdon serves as the defensive line and strength and conditioning coach for the Pacelli High School varsity football team. Risdon said working with these three teams has been a dream come true and he hopes to continue with football during his last few years in the Army.

"I'd like to thank (Coach) Gibson, (Coach) Meek, Randy Grace and Alan Griffin (Pacelli Coaches) for allowing me to 'live the dream'."