In this episode of the Contacts Coaching Podcast, host Justin Clark speaks with Trey Brown, Head Football Coach and Associate Director of Admission at Phillips Andover Academy in Massachusetts. Trey shares his journey from growing up in Livingston, California, to becoming a key figure at one of the most prestigious boarding schools in the USA. He discusses the importance of building personal connections with players, fostering a strong team culture, and the challenges and rewards of coaching at a high academic institution. Trey also emphasizes the need for adaptability, delegation, and continuous learning in coaching, as well as the unique dynamics of working within the prep school sports ecosystem. His insights provide valuable lessons for both current and aspiring coaches on balancing performance with personal growth and well-being for student-athletes.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:29 Coach Trey's Background and Journey

01:33 The Andover Experience

02:26 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Purpose

03:58 Returning to Andover and Career Growth

07:08 Coaching Philosophy and Advice

16:52 Building Team Culture and Connections

19:54 Learning from Other Sports and Team Bonding

21:54 Adding Fun and Competition to Practice

22:07 Balancing Practice and Team Bonding

22:24 Learning from Other Coaches

22:54 The Importance of Time Management

23:04 Reflecting on Practice Priorities

23:46 Starting Practice with Full Games

24:31 Conceptual Offense in Football

26:21 Live Read Components in Practice

30:56 Delegating Responsibilities as a Coach

35:48 Evolving Coaching Approaches

39:13 Sustainability in Prep School Sports

41:53 Final Thoughts and Appreciation

In this episode of the Contacts coaching podcast, we sit down with Tyler Whitley, the head football coach at Taft School and Associate Athletic Director. Tyler shares his journey from growing up in Torrington, Connecticut, to becoming a multi-sport athlete in high school, and eventually finding his passion in coaching. He discusses the challenges and rewards of juggling multiple roles at a boarding school, his approach to building an inclusive team culture, and how he navigates the complexities of recruiting in the age of NIL and the transfer portal. Tune in to hear valuable insights on managing expectations, trusting your assistants, and the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

00:32 Coach Whitley's Background and Journey

04:36 Boarding School Experience and Accessibility

10:14 Challenges and Realizations as a New Head Coach

14:22 Creating a Culture of Inclusivity and Service

17:40 Game Schedules and League Details

20:40 The Rise of Northeast Football

21:02 Evaluating Talent Without Crossover Play

21:32 Transitioning to Athletic Administration

23:26 Learning from Other Coaches

27:51 The Value of Diverse Perspectives

30:06 Challenging Personal Beliefs

35:26 Balancing Coaching and Family

37:32 Adapting to Modern Recruiting Challenges

40:55 Final Thoughts and Tools for Success

In this episode of the Contacts Coaching Podcast, host Justin interviews Justin Ferdinand, Athletic Director at a prestigious high school in San Mateo, California. They discuss Ferdinand's journey from growing up in San Ramon, California, to playing water polo at Chaminade University in Oahu, and his subsequent transitions through various coaching and administrative roles. The conversation covers the challenges and rewards of being an athletic director, the importance of creating a supportive and equitable sports environment, and the differences between private and public school athletics. Ferdinand also shares insights on managing time, navigating sportsmanship issues, and balancing parental expectations with the needs of student-athletes.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:27 Justin Ferdinand's Early Life and College Journey

01:41 Coaching Beginnings in Hawaii

02:27 Transition to Southern California

02:51 Advanced Education and Career Progression

03:40 Return to Northern California

05:01 Reflections on Public vs. Private School Experience

08:07 Advice for Young Coaches

11:22 Challenges and Insights in Athletic Administration

14:10 Building Community and Equity in Sports Programs

18:45 Participation and Specialization in High School Sports

22:40 Unique Challenges and Successes in Specific Sports

25:11 Brotherhood and Faith in Sports

27:40 Learning from Other Coaches

28:34 Effective Practice Planning

32:47 Balancing Pressure and Experience

39:41 Addressing Sportsmanship Issues

44:48 Challenging Beliefs and Parenting

50:39 Decision-Making Process for Young Athletes