Building Success in Athletics: Insights from Brendan Blakely

Welcome to this edition of the "The Coaching Journey," a newsletter dedicated to sharing insights and advice from experienced coaches. In this issue, we are excited to feature the top ten lessons gleaned from an in-depth interview with Brendan Blakeley, a seasoned Athletic Director and coach with a depth of experience in high school athletics. Brendan shares insights from his journey in sports, touching on topics such as leadership, creating a positive culture, and balancing high standards with empathy.

• Embrace the Journey: Focus on the process, not just the end result. The richness of experience comes from the journey, not necessarily the destination.

• Persistence Pays Off: Brendan's career trajectory underscores the importance of being in the right place at the right time and taking advantage of opportunities.

• Value of Communication: Effective communication, especially in disappointing someone, is a crucial skill both in sports and life.

• Creating a Landing Spot: Aiming to make your program a place where coaches want to stay, not just pass through, fosters consistency and success.

• Importance of Personal Connection: Relationships built over time, especially with players and alumni, are the true hallmark of a successful program.

• Pushing Hard with Purpose: High expectations during practice sessions help athletes discover what they're capable of achieving.

• Respect for All: Adopting a respectful attitude towards everyone involved in athletics, from players to parents and officials, creates a positive environment.

• Holistic Approach to Coaching: Success in coaching comes from focusing on player development, both on and off the field, rather than just wins.

• Embracing Change: Being open to changing one's mindset and approach based on new experiences or insights leads to personal and professional growth.

• Empowerment Through Ownership: Encouraging coaches and athletes to take ownership of their roles and responsibilities enhances commitment and performance.

Brendan Blakeley's extensive experience and thoughtful approach to athletics provide invaluable lessons for coaches, players, and sports administrators alike. His emphasis on connection, communication, and commitment are key takeaways that can inspire us to foster a more positive and impactful sports culture. Thank you for joining us in this exploration of best practices in athletics leadership. We look forward to sharing more insights in our future issues.

Listen to his episode here

Watch his episode here: You Tube

If you enjoyed this newsletter and find it valuable, please subscribe and share widely within your network. 

Best regards, Justin Clymo

What Keeps Contacts Going.