WAVERLY — Former Manson Northwest Webster standout Cal Twait comes from an indelible coaching tree.

Twait’s grandfather, Duane, won seven state titles and 339 games as he turned Emmetsburg into one of the more storied programs in Iowa.

Cal father, Kevin, directed Iowa Central to several Top-10 finishes at the junior college level over a 22-year career on the sidelines.

Now, the 2015 graduate of MNW and ex-University of Northern Iowa football player gets his own opportunity to lead a team.

Twait was named the new head football coach at Waverly-Shell Rock this week, pending school board approval. He has been with the Go-Hawks in a variety of roles since graduating from UNI, including an assistant football coach and head boys track coach.

“Football is about more than wins and losses,” Twait said. “It’s about developing young men of character, teaching resilience, and fostering a sense of community.”

A first team all-stater for the Cougars, Twait was a four-year starter along the offensive line for recently-retired Mark Farley and the Panthers.

“We are thrilled to have Cal Twait lead the Go-Hawk football program,” Waverly-Shell Rock superintendent David Hill said. “His coaching experience, deep understanding of the game and commitment to character development make him the ideal leader of our student-athletes.”

Twait and his wife, Laura, live in Waverly with their son, Duane. He is also a physical education teacher within the school district.