As I embark on the journey of reflecting upon my first year as a high school strength and conditioning coach at Austin High School, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences, challenges, and lessons that have shaped my growth in this role. It has been a transformative year, marked by moments of triumph, resilience, and personal development. Here, I delve deeper into the intricacies of my journey, elaborating on the challenges faced, lessons learned, and the path forward.

The Unforeseen Challenges of Teacher Duties

Entering the realm of high school strength and conditioning, I was met with unforeseen challenges, particularly in the realm of teacher duties. As a coach, I was tasked with not only designing effective training programs but also with creating syllabi and curriculum maps from scratch. This transition was a significant hurdle, one that left me feeling overwhelmed and underprepared. However, through collaboration and support from unexpected quarters, such as my choir director, I navigated these challenges with newfound confidence. This experience underscored the importance of seeking guidance and assistance when faced with unfamiliar tasks, a lesson that continues to resonate with me as I navigate the complexities of coaching in a high school setting.

Establishing Boundaries and Expectations

A recurring obstacle in my journey as a young coach has been the need to establish clear boundaries and expectations with my athletes. Breaking the perception that I am simply "one of the bros" required a delicate balance between approachability and authority. Setting clear expectations early on, while still fostering a friendly and supportive atmosphere, was crucial in gaining the respect and trust of my athletes. This ongoing process has taught me the importance of communication, consistency, and leading by example in shaping a positive and productive team culture.

Celebrating Achievements, Big and Small

One area where I identified a need for improvement was in my ability to celebrate achievements, both big and small. Coming from a background in training firefighters, where the focus was primarily on functional fitness and safety, I initially struggled to acknowledge the personal accomplishments of my high school athletes. Recognizing the significance of celebrating milestones and fostering a culture of positivity and encouragement, I committed to working on this aspect of my coaching approach. By acknowledging and celebrating every achievement, no matter how minor, I strive to cultivate a sense of pride and motivation among my athletes, inspiring them to reach their full potential.

Drawing Inspiration from Mentors

Throughout my journey, I have been fortunate to have mentors who have played a pivotal role in shaping my growth as a coach. While not all of them come from a strength and conditioning background, their wisdom and guidance have been invaluable in preparing me for the challenges of coaching high school athletes. From John Callender, who provided me with my first coaching opportunity shortly after my own high school graduation, to my own high school coaches, Bob Gaddis and Blake Manuel, each mentor has left an indelible mark on my coaching philosophy and approach.

The Path Forward: Commitment to Growth and Learning

As I reflect on my first year as a high school strength and conditioning coach, I am filled with a sense of optimism and determination for the road ahead. The challenges faced and lessons learned have equipped me with a deeper understanding of the intricacies of coaching in a high school setting. Moving forward, I remain committed to continual growth and learning, seeking out opportunities to expand my knowledge and refine my skills as a coach and mentor. With each challenge overcome and triumph celebrated, I grow more confident in my ability to make a meaningful impact on the lives of my athletes and the broader school community.

In conclusion, my inaugural year as a high school strength and conditioning coach at Austin High School has been a journey of self-discovery, growth, and resilience. From navigating the complexities of teacher duties to establishing boundaries with athletes, each experience has contributed to my evolution as a coach and mentor. As I look ahead to the future, I am excited to build upon the lessons learned and continue making a positive impact in the lives of my athletes and the broader school community.