A new book titled The Winning Formula offers an in-depth look at the rise of Seneca Valley High School’s football program, tracing its evolution from a modest varsity team to a perennial powerhouse in Maryland.
The Making of a Dynasty
Co-authors Ray Sacramo, who served as the school’s former athletic director, and legendary head coach Terry Changuris combine archival research with personal anecdotes to paint a vivid portrait of a program that has shaped generations of players.
Early Triumphs
Under the guidance of Al Thomas, the team captured state championships in its second and third varsity seasons, establishing a culture of collective pride that resonated throughout Germantown and the surrounding communities.
The Winning Formula
The authors distill the program’s philosophy into five core principles Pride, Innovation, Preparation, Repetition, and Learning from Mistakes that continue to inform coaching strategies across western Montgomery County and Frederick County.
A Record of Excellence
Terry Changuris formalized the eponymous formula in 1992, steering the Vikings to seven state titles over an eleven-year stretch His overall record stands at 158-31 and earned him a place in the Maryland High School Coaches Hall of Fame in 2012.
Continuity and Growth
Fred Kim succeeded Changuris, preserving the winning momentum and contributing to a combined 374-79 record across the three head coaches, a testament to the program’s sustained competitiveness.
A Legacy Beyond the Sideline
The book highlights an extensive coaching tree rooted in the mentorship of Al Thomas and longtime assistant John Harvill, whose influence radiates to numerous assistant coaches and former players who now lead teams across the region.
Future Generations
Among the next generation, Terry Changuris’s son TJ carried the lessons forward as a coach at Quince Orchard High School, illustrating how the program’s ethos transcends school boundaries.
Through interviews, archival footage, and personal reflections, The Winning Formula not only chronicles athletic achievement but also captures the communal spirit that defined Seneca Valley’s identity, offering a blueprint for institutions seeking lasting excellence.