From Player to Leader: Ella Emmert on Navigating Collegiate Athletics
In this episode of the Contacts Coaching Podcast, we pivot from our usual focus on coaching to gain valuable insights from current collegiate athlete Ella Emmert, catcher at the University of Kentucky. Ella shares her unique journey into athletics, starting softball at age 10, and overcoming challenges to play at the collegiate level. She discusses the importance of gratitude, identity, and living in the present, all crucial components of her athletic and leadership success. Additionally, Ella gives us a behind-the-scenes look at her roles on multiple NCAA and SEC advisory committees, offering perspective on the evolving landscape of college sports. This conversation is a treasure trove of advice and inspiration for athletes, coaches, and anyone navigating competitive environments.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:50 Ella's Journey into Softball02:11 High School and Recruitment Challenges10:35 College Experience and NIL Impact17:24 Athletic Leadership and Committees25:46 Mental Strategies for Catchers26:28 Building Confidence and Trust27:22 Gratitude and Mindset Shifts29:13 Facing Challenges and Growth31:24 Leadership and Team Dynamics37:43 Overcoming Performance Anxiety46:08 The Importance of Being Present50:05 Final Thoughts and Reflections
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From JV Soccer Coach to Athletic Director: Meghan Levers' Journey in Sports Administration
In this episode of the Contacts Coaching Podcast, we're joined by Meghan Levers, the Athletic Director at Overfelt High School in San Jose. Meghan shares her inspiring journey from her beginnings in the San Fernando Valley to her experience as a JV soccer coach, and ultimately, to her current role as AD. She discusses the evolution of her career, the challenges of managing sports programs with limited budgets, and the importance of multi-sport participation for student-athletes. Meghan also highlights the collaborative efforts with her co-AD, the impact of raising academic standards, and strategies for effective athletic administration. Whether you're an aspiring coach, an athletic director, or just passionate about high school sports, this episode is filled with valuable insights.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:23 Meghan's Journey: From Student to Coach03:02 Transition to Athletic Director05:51 Challenges and Responsibilities of an AD14:25 Funding and Resource Management18:01 Academic Standards and Athletic Success19:36 Raising Expectations and Student Success20:00 The East Side Promise and Multi-Sport Participation20:52 Promoting Multi-Sport Participation21:37 Coaching Strategies for Multi-Sport Athletes23:44 Challenges and Successes in Multi-Sport Programs26:53 District Collaboration and Challenges29:57 Insights from Overseeing Multiple Programs34:31 Effective Tools and Changing Perspectives
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Balancing Multiple Roles in Prep School Athletics: A Conversation with Donnie McKillop
In this episode, the hosts welcome Donnie McKillop, Associate Athletic Director and Head Baseball Coach at East Coast Loomis Chaffee School. McKillop discusses his background growing up in Southern California, balancing multiple sports, and his journey through various coaching roles at institutions like Middlebury College, Springfield College, and Amherst College. He delves into the challenges and strategies of coaching multi-sport athletes in today's specialized sports environment and offers insights into the importance of building relationships, respecting team history, and fostering internal development. The episode also touches on the practicalities of managing time and embracing modern communication tools to stay connected with teams.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:25 Coach Donnie McKillop's Background02:20 Journey to Loomis Chaffee03:56 Balancing Football and Baseball07:18 Coaching Philosophy and Advice11:06 Navigating Multi-Sport Coaching18:04 Coaching Journey and Professional Growth18:54 Integrating Football and Baseball Coaching Styles20:44 Unique Coaching Techniques and Philosophies23:14 Learning from Other Sports and Coaches26:27 Adapting to Modern Coaching Challenges27:00 Balancing Specialization and Multi-Sport Participation28:41 Importance of Rest and Regeneration32:36 Effective Team Communication Tools
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Navigating Small-Town Athletic Challenges: A Conversation with Rafael of Modoc High School
In this episode of the Contacts Coaching podcast, Rafael, the Athletic Director at Modoc High School, returns to share his journey and discuss the unique challenges of running athletic programs in a small-town setting in northern California. He reflects on his path from student to teacher and administrator, highlights the importance of relationships and networking, and addresses the logistical hurdles faced by small schools, such as travel, funding, and maintaining a competitive edge. Rafael also shares his strategies for improving athletic facilities, fostering a winning culture, and handling community feedback, all while emphasizing the importance of putting student athletes first.00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview00:35 Journey to Modoc High School01:14 Challenges of Rural Athletics02:11 Building Relationships in Athletics03:13 Feedback from Conference Presentation05:05 Balancing Job Offers and Personal Commitments08:30 Small Town Dynamics and School Culture11:43 Developing a Championship Culture20:56 The Importance of Feedback and Growth24:51 Understanding Emotional Offloading25:23 Challenges of Small School Sports Programs25:56 Commitment and Team Standards26:34 Managing Practice Attendance26:55 Setting Standards and Communication27:40 Small School Challenges and Advice28:44 Uniforms and Facilities34:50 Funding and Grants43:00 Community and Tradition45:17 Closing Thoughts and Acknowledgements
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Journey and Insights: Josh Adams' Path from Coach to Athletic Director
In this episode of the Contacts Coaching Podcast, Josh Adams, the Athletic Director at Gilroy High School, discusses his extensive journey in sports starting from humble beginnings. Adams shares experiences from his background in high school sports, coaching youth wrestling, and various administrative roles in different districts. He highlights his progression from volunteering to becoming a head coach, and eventually an Athletic Director. Adams delves into the challenges he faced, the importance of adapting to different school environments, and the lessons learned along the way. He underscores the value of clear communication, commitment, and multi-sport participation. Additionally, Adams reflects on the importance of understanding unique community needs and fostering relationships among students, parents, and administrators. This episode is a rich resource for current and aspiring coaches and athletic directors seeking comprehensive insight into effective athletic program management.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:16 Josh Adams' Early Coaching Journey01:12 High School and College Experiences02:04 Coaching Successes and Challenges05:15 Transition to Administrative Roles09:14 Differences in Athletic Programs12:19 Insights on Coaching and Administration15:36 Comparing Different Sections and Their Impact22:19 Setting Expectations and Team Branding26:19 Balancing Multi-Sport Participation29:42 Learning from Other Sports and Coaches33:42 Adapting to New Environments and Challenges39:25 Reflecting on Changes and Growth46:29 Advice for New Athletic Directors
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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