September 2023
A big happy beginning of the school year to most of you, and a special congrats to El Segundo Little League team for their walk-off W. We love this time of year, especially because it’s a chance to relive a great sportsmanship moment.
Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter/X for updates, tips, and recommendations.
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Leading thought
Skill development typically begins with a clearly defined outcome (the specific application of a skill in context). The process for developing that skill starts with foundational elements and builds toward more complex, situational applications.
For example, scheme “installs” begin with an outline of the scheme, which the student-athlete learns in a series of progressive steps. Leader development is no different; it’s helpful to begin with the end state you’re trying to achieve. What do you need student-athlete leaders to actually do?
Read more about how to target the leadership skills your student-athletes need in part two of our four-part series on leadership development.
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What we’re reading
The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle – a great insight into building team culture, and the critical elements for success. Great for coaches and ADs who want to build a culture of success and high-quality leadership.
Pair with: This episode of the Coaching DNA podcast where Kyle Stark, formerly of the Pittsburgh Pirates, discusses culture and how to build or change it.
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In case you missed it
It’s always a good time to think about leadership development, whether you’re a high school or college coach. Don’t forget about our free resources page, we’re always updating!
Around this time of year, though, DIII coaches especially have a lot of opportunity to do leadership development with the new offseason meeting rules. Check out our sample documents for SAs and coaches.
Finally, are you a new coach? Or did you just hire one? Our latest post is live on our webpage.
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Where are we?
We’re traveling again this month! If you’re in central or eastern PA, Baltimore, or DC, let us know. We’d love to get a coffee and talk leadership in athletics – two of our favorite things.
As always, we are available to talk with any group (e.g., your SAAC, a specific team, coaches, etc.) on leadership, no strings attached. Leadership is our passion and our goal is to provide as much valuable insights and information to as many people as we can.
Contact us anytime: info@developingathleteleaders.com, we’re here for you.
– Evan Bruno and Jen Baker
www.developingathleteleaders.com
Testimonial of the month
“The 360 Leadership gave us very tangible and useful data and feedback on all levels of our program. This information is so valuable to us and allows us to help our coaches, player leaders, and team be better leaders, competitors, and teammates.”
- Brian Bergstrom, Head Coach of Winona Football