Mark Dantonio shares what life is like after football

Mark Dantonio is one of the most successful coaches in the history of Michigan State football, leading the Spartans to a Rose Bowl win, a Big Ten championship and a College Football Playoff berth during his time in East Lansing. But he doesn’t seem to be itching to get out of retirement any time soon.

Speaking recently, Dantonio said he’s enjoyed getting to spend more time with family. And while he certainly misses aspects of coaching, he’s found ways to stay engaged without giving up his days to it.

“I think you’ve got to take advantage of the time you have to do those things,” Dantonio said. “So that’s what I’ve been doing and still stay connected to football in certain ways. Especially the guys who I’ve coached with, visit their camps and things of that nature and be a part a little bit of what they’re doing.”

A grandfather now, Dantonio said he’s spending plenty of time with his grandkids and children, as well as various other family members. And with that he’s enjoyed the stress-free nature of things.

“Well, it’s been less stressful for sure,” Dantonio said. “It’s been good, you know? It’s been a chance to reconnect with family, especially brothers and sister-in-laws and things of that nature, brother-in-laws, see my grandchildren things of that. But you’re gonna miss certain things about the game, but at the same time, I think it’s a give and take.”

Dantonio said he does miss some parts of the job. While he’s glad to have more time for himself and family, he misses being in a locker room and sharing that bond and camaraderie with colleagues and players.

“I think anytime — you know, you got your locker room, you guys have your locker room. Anybody who has any type of profession has their own ‘locker room’ and I think you’ll miss that locker room when you’re done doing what you do, doing what you’re trained to do. But at the same time, it comes a time and place for other things too,” Dantonio said.