As my U12 soccer team nears true cohesion, the final refinements—quick passes, smart spacing, and unselfish play—have proven harder than expected. It’s a reminder that the last step toward accomplishment is often the most difficult, requiring not just skill but cognitive persistence and emotional resilience. Coaching in these moments isn’t about chasing wins, but guiding young players through growth that transcends the field. The process itself becomes the lesson—one of teamwork, patience, and meaningful effort.
Read MoreI learned the hard way that "Coach Dad" is a tough gig—especially when it comes to push-ups. After calling out my daughter distinctive form in front of her teammates, I found myself on the receiving end of a very disappointed 8-year-old and a lesson I won’t forget. Boys bounce back from criticism like it’s a challenge; girls, not so much. Note to self: next time, keep the commentary positive and save the groveling for after practice!
Read MoreReflecting on my days as a quarterback, I cherished the chance to lead and adjust plays on the field, and now, as a coach, I carry that enthusiasm into helping kids enjoy sports, emphasizing improvement and teamwork over winning. My loud voice, often echoing across the field, sometimes draws criticism for being annoying or domineering, yet I strive to remain positive and supportive, ensuring I’m guiding rather than overwhelming the kids. As I navigate coaching and other relationships, I’m constantly pondering whether I should dial down my volume to better listen and empower others.
Read MoreCompetition, while important, can foster harmful stress and anxiety. Shifting our focus to self-improvement creates a mindset of continuous learning and self-discovery.
Read MoreWith job vacancies at an all-time high, now more than ever it is critical to invest in your people. For-profit organizations invest in employees, but nonprofits lack professional development programs. How can this impact your organization? Read this blog for Randall’s perspective.
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