NSCA’s Coaching Podcast, Episode 35: Darnell Clark

Darnell Clark, Director of Strength and Conditioning at Charlotte Country Day School in Charlotte, NC, talks to the NSCA Head Strength and Conditioning Coach, Scott Caulfield, about his path to becoming a high school strength and conditioning coach, the structure of his high school (Charlotte Country Day) strength and conditioning program, and giving back to the industry.

Darnell Clark, CSCS,*D, RSCC*D, has been the Director of Strength and Conditioning at Charlotte Country Day School (CCDS) in Charlotte, NC since 2004. In this role, Clark and his staff are responsible for the daily development and systematic implementation for 36 junior varsity and varsity teams (24 sports). In 2014, Clark was the recipient of the NSCA’s High School Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year Award. His program at CCDS has earned the NSCA’s Strength of America Award for eight consecutive years. He has had the privilege of coaching 10 NSCA High School Strength and Conditioning All-Americans and over 150 college-bound student-athletes during his time at CCDS. From 2013 – 2016, he served as the NSCA’s North Carolina State Director and presently is the NSCA Southeast Regional Coordinator. Clark received his Bachelor’s degree from Northwestern University, where he was a member of the football team, and his Master of Physical Education degree from Arizona State University. 

Follow Darnell on Twitter: @coachclark44 | Find Scott on Twitter: @scottcaulfield

Show Notes

“It’s an exciting time for the field of strength and conditioning with the growth of high school and tactical programs.” 4:03

“I had to bring teams on team by team and convince coach by coach because it’s not mandated for them to train, and 14 years later we are training every team, including the dance team and cheerleading team.” 7:14

“There are a lot more people wanting jobs than there are jobs available.” 8:25

“There is a disconnect between physical education programs and exercise science programs.” 9:14

“You need to have that science background, but if you cannot communicate or convey what you want the kids to do, it’s going to be pretty difficult for you to be an effective coach.” 9:52

“You need to develop a repertoire of communications skills and cues and the only way to do that is by coaching and being taught to coach.” 10:59

“That’s how philosophies are built is through experience.” 32:11