The Art and Science of Coaching: A Conversation with James Jansen, Associate Head Coach at Davidson College
In this episode of the Contacts Coaching podcast, we sit down with James Jansen, the Associate Head Coach at Davidson College. Coach Jansen shares his fascinating journey from coaching youth basketball in Melbourne, Australia, to becoming an associate head coach in the United States. He discusses the differences between the Australian and American coaching landscapes, emphasizing the integrated club system in Australia that encourages young athletes' and coaches' development. The conversation touches on the nuances of multi-sport participation, the impact of the transfer portal and NIL on mid-major programs, and the importance of understanding both empirical data and practical knowledge in coaching. Coach Jansen also offers insights into rebounding metrics and efficiency that can help coaches at any level optimize their strategies. Tune in for an insightful episode packed with valuable takeaways for coaches, athletes, and sports enthusiasts.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:31 James Jansen's Coaching Journey04:41 Australian Youth Coaching Culture07:43 Challenges in US Youth Sports10:20 Pathways in Sports Development17:09 Multi-Sport vs. Specialization Debate24:19 Transitioning from Head Coach to Assistant25:44 Transitioning from Assistant to Head Coach27:39 Balancing University and Team Priorities30:16 Symbiotic Relationship Between Men's and Women's Programs33:56 Building a Successful Basketball Program37:08 Impact of Transfer Portal and NIL on College Sports39:58 Challenges and Strategies in Modern College Athletics43:55 Growth Mindset and Challenging Beliefs46:37 Data Literacy and Analytics in Sports49:45 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections
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The Journey and Vision of Australian Basketball Coach Paul Langford
In this episode of the Contacts Coaching podcast, host is joined by Paul Lankford, an accomplished basketball coach from Australia, to discuss his extensive journey through various levels of coaching. Paul shares his experiences from coaching local club teams to leading semi-pro teams and becoming a director of coaching. He also discusses his involvement with Australian Basketball Travelers, facilitating life-changing tours for young athletes. Additionally, Paul emphasizes the importance of having a positive experience in sports, effective player engagement, and valuable coaching insights gained from top-notch mentors. Tune in to learn more about Paul's contributions to basketball coaching and how international tours can create lifelong memories and opportunities for young athletes.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:29 Paul Langford's Coaching Journey01:10 Challenges and Growth in Coaching01:51 Transition to Professional Coaching03:12 Involvement in Basketball Victoria03:25 Coaching at Various Schools04:12 Contributions to Junior Basketball05:24 Basketball Tours and Their Impact06:23 The Value of International Exposure15:32 Coaching Philosophy and Player Engagement20:59 Navigating Player and Parent Expectations26:34 Season Kickoff and Preseason Challenges27:10 Balancing Footy and Basketball Commitments27:35 Attendance and Player Engagement Strategies30:03 Learning from Other Sports and Coaches31:14 Strength and Conditioning, Technology, and Sports Psychology32:37 Coaching Techniques and Decision Making37:20 Game Play and Practice Drills43:47 Coach-Referee Relationships48:51 Positive Coaching and Player Experience51:12 Final Thoughts and Plugs
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Mastering Coaching & Building Winning Teams with Mark Alabakov
Welcome to the Contacts Coaching Podcast! In this episode, host welcomes Mark Alabakov, a professional basketball coach from Melbourne, Australia, to share his extensive journey in the world of coaching. Mark discusses his roots in sports, transitioning from a player to coaching at various levels, and the valuable lessons learned from some of Australia's top coaches. He delves into his coaching methodologies, the balance between art and science in coaching, and his commitment to continual learning. Mark also highlights specific strategies he employs to enhance team culture and individual performance, including innovative communication techniques and fostering self-awareness among athletes. With detailed insights and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about sports coaching and leadership.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:41 Mark Alabakov's Early Life and Basketball Journey01:47 Transition to Coaching and Early Coaching Career02:27 Professional Coaching Career and Achievements06:42 Skill Development and Coaching Philosophy13:41 Elite Player Pathways and Training Programs18:03 Challenges and Insights in Coaching21:47 Coaching Techniques and Influences28:56 Mastering the Art and Science of Coaching30:54 The Art and Science of Coaching31:23 Blending Old School and Modern Methodologies32:29 Finding Opportunities in Coaching Education33:13 Learning from Other Sports35:29 Building Relationships and Culture46:10 Maximizing Efficiency in Coaching50:56 Adapting Coaching Methods54:26 Personal Growth and Work-Life BalanceIG - @thecountofhoopsX- @thecountofhoops
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Chasing Passion and Purpose in Athletics with Coach DeMar Lane
Welcome back to the Contacts Coaching podcast, featuring an insightful conversation with Coach DeMar Lane from KIPP Navigate College Prep. In this episode, Coach Lane shares his journey from East Oakland, California, through his athletic career at Laney College and Southeastern Louisiana University, to his current role as an athletic director. Tune in as Coach Lane discusses the highs and lows of coaching, the influence of club sports, and the importance of intentionality, self-advocacy, and inclusivity in athletics. Learn about his innovative approach to coaching, including the implementation of study halls and fostering a supportive environment for all athletes. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about sports, education, and effective leadership.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:30 Coach D Lane's Journey into Athletics01:20 Transition to Coaching and Education02:38 Challenges and Rewards of Coaching in California03:42 The Influence of Club Sports05:28 Navigating the Role of Athletic Director14:01 Implementing Study Hall and Academic Standards16:28 The Rise of Girls' Flag Football16:59 Balancing Tradition and New Sports22:04 The Impact of NIL on High School Sports25:03 FIO: Figure It Out27:28 Adversity and Leadership in Coaching30:19 Dealing with a Difficult Parent30:41 Accusations and Confrontations31:29 Meeting with the Parent and Admin33:05 Advice for Navigating Coaching Challenges34:59 Importance of Communication in Coaching36:18 Coaching Philosophy and Student Development50:27 Special Education and Coaching58:19 Intentionality and Leadership01:00:50 Final Thoughts and Reflections
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Empowering Athletic Directors: A Conversation with Sara Shaughnessy
In this episode of the Contacts Coaching Podcast, we sit down with Sara Shaughnessy, the athletic director at Castilleja, as she shares her journey from growing up immersed in sports to stepping into her new role in 2025. Sarah discusses her formative experiences in sports, coaching youth volleyball, and her 13-year tenure at the International School of San Francisco. She touches on leadership lessons, the importance of multi-sport participation, creating a positive team culture, and the benefits of involving parents as coaches. Sarah also shares her strategies for effective feedback, onboarding new coaches, and staying open to new opportunities. Join us for this insightful conversation about building successful athletic programs and empowering the next generation of athletes.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:17 Sarah's Journey to Castilleja02:23 Early Coaching Experiences04:47 Lessons Learned as a Young Coach06:46 Challenges and Mentorship in Athletic Directing09:10 Onboarding and Building a New Program17:37 Promoting Multi-Sport Participation22:05 Data on Multi-Sport vs. Single-Sport Athletes24:25 Promoting Play in Practice27:10 Transitioning to a New Job27:45 The Decision-Making Process28:25 Building a Positive School Culture31:29 Exploring New Opportunities34:51 Supporting Young Coaches37:57 Effective Feedback Pathways42:24 Captain's Council: A Leadership Initiative47:26 Adapting to New Environments50:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughtshttp://www.castilleja.org/https://www.instagram.com/castilleja_school/https://www.facebook.com/CastillejaSchool/https://www.linkedin.com/school/castilleja-school/
The CONTACTS Coaches Podcast is a digital database of coaching where Coach and Athletic Director Justin Clymo discusses the various aspects of coaching, leadership and life with those he has met along the way.
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