The Strength Running Podcast

How ‘Coach of the Year’ Sean Brosnan Revolutionized Newbury Park’s Cross Country Team

Sep 11, 2025
Sean Brosnan, a former collegiate All-American and current UCLA track coach, revitalized Newbury Park High's cross country team, leading them from a 25-year championship drought to three consecutive national titles. He discusses his innovative strategies, including fostering a 'no limits' mindset and the importance of mental resilience. Sean shares inspiring anecdotes about overcoming team adversity and prioritizing training over race outcomes, pushing athletes to excel and nurture a love for running. Don't miss insights from his new book, 'Beyond Fast'!
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INSIGHT

Mindset Is The Foundation

  • Sean Brosnan built belief first by setting a very high standard and surrounding athletes with ambitious expectations.
  • He treated the mind as the gateway to performance and paired belief with progressive physical work.
ADVICE

Make Leaders Enforce Standards

  • Push athletes early but let natural leaders enforce standards rather than appointing captains.
  • Use firm, consistent messaging and expect parental and peer accountability to sustain discipline.
ANECDOTE

Ethan Duffy Took Charge

  • Ethan Duffy stepped up as an unofficial leader and enforced coach Sean's expectations.
  • His pushiness stopped slacking and helped the team cohere toward state goals.
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