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