Welcome to the Contacts Coaching Podcast! In this episode, host welcomes Mark Alabakov, a professional basketball coach from Melbourne, Australia, to share his extensive journey in the world of coaching. Mark discusses his roots in sports, transitioning from a player to coaching at various levels, and the valuable lessons learned from some of Australia's top coaches. He delves into his coaching methodologies, the balance between art and science in coaching, and his commitment to continual learning. Mark also highlights specific strategies he employs to enhance team culture and individual performance, including innovative communication techniques and fostering self-awareness among athletes. With detailed insights and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about sports coaching and leadership.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:41 Mark Alabakov's Early Life and Basketball Journey

01:47 Transition to Coaching and Early Coaching Career

02:27 Professional Coaching Career and Achievements

06:42 Skill Development and Coaching Philosophy

13:41 Elite Player Pathways and Training Programs

18:03 Challenges and Insights in Coaching

21:47 Coaching Techniques and Influences

28:56 Mastering the Art and Science of Coaching

30:54 The Art and Science of Coaching

31:23 Blending Old School and Modern Methodologies

32:29 Finding Opportunities in Coaching Education

33:13 Learning from Other Sports

35:29 Building Relationships and Culture

46:10 Maximizing Efficiency in Coaching

50:56 Adapting Coaching Methods

54:26 Personal Growth and Work-Life Balance

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Welcome back to the Contacts Coaching podcast, featuring an insightful conversation with Coach DeMar Lane from KIPP Navigate College Prep. In this episode, Coach Lane shares his journey from East Oakland, California, through his athletic career at Laney College and Southeastern Louisiana University, to his current role as an athletic director. Tune in as Coach Lane discusses the highs and lows of coaching, the influence of club sports, and the importance of intentionality, self-advocacy, and inclusivity in athletics. Learn about his innovative approach to coaching, including the implementation of study halls and fostering a supportive environment for all athletes. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about sports, education, and effective leadership.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:30 Coach D Lane's Journey into Athletics

01:20 Transition to Coaching and Education

02:38 Challenges and Rewards of Coaching in California

03:42 The Influence of Club Sports

05:28 Navigating the Role of Athletic Director

14:01 Implementing Study Hall and Academic Standards

16:28 The Rise of Girls' Flag Football

16:59 Balancing Tradition and New Sports

22:04 The Impact of NIL on High School Sports

25:03 FIO: Figure It Out

27:28 Adversity and Leadership in Coaching

30:19 Dealing with a Difficult Parent

30:41 Accusations and Confrontations

31:29 Meeting with the Parent and Admin

33:05 Advice for Navigating Coaching Challenges

34:59 Importance of Communication in Coaching

36:18 Coaching Philosophy and Student Development

50:27 Special Education and Coaching

58:19 Intentionality and Leadership

01:00:50 Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode of the Contacts Coaching Podcast, we sit down with Sara Shaughnessy, the athletic director at Castilleja, as she shares her journey from growing up immersed in sports to stepping into her new role in 2025. Sarah discusses her formative experiences in sports, coaching youth volleyball, and her 13-year tenure at the International School of San Francisco. She touches on leadership lessons, the importance of multi-sport participation, creating a positive team culture, and the benefits of involving parents as coaches. Sarah also shares her strategies for effective feedback, onboarding new coaches, and staying open to new opportunities. Join us for this insightful conversation about building successful athletic programs and empowering the next generation of athletes.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:17 Sarah's Journey to Castilleja

02:23 Early Coaching Experiences

04:47 Lessons Learned as a Young Coach

06:46 Challenges and Mentorship in Athletic Directing

09:10 Onboarding and Building a New Program

17:37 Promoting Multi-Sport Participation

22:05 Data on Multi-Sport vs. Single-Sport Athletes

24:25 Promoting Play in Practice

27:10 Transitioning to a New Job

27:45 The Decision-Making Process

28:25 Building a Positive School Culture

31:29 Exploring New Opportunities

34:51 Supporting Young Coaches

37:57 Effective Feedback Pathways

42:24 Captain's Council: A Leadership Initiative

47:26 Adapting to New Environments

50:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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