Episode 59: Culture and Belonging: Interview with NAU coach Mike Smith

Transitioning Leadership of Championship Teams

Taking over a championship team involves unique challenges, as discussed by the guest coach, who has experienced this twice in his career. He reflected on his time at Georgetown, where he took over the women's defending national champion team, and shared that he learned to shift his focus from the pressure of past achievements to the current process and development of the team at Northern Arizona University (NAU). He emphasized the importance of framing the season as an opportunity for growth rather than a defensive stance to maintain the title. This change in perspective allowed him to prioritize the athletes' experiences and the daily tasks that contribute to long-term success.

Language and Mindset in Coaching

The use of specific vocabulary plays a critical role in shaping the mindset of athletes, as highlighted in the episode. The coach mentioned his team's discussions centered around 'running to win' and engaging in individual 'street fights' during races, rather than focusing on what is at stake. This language promotes a positive and proactive approach to competition, encouraging athletes to focus on their efforts rather than the fear of losing. By fostering an environment that values individual battles within the broader context of the race, the coach aims to motivate his team to embrace challenges and maintain a growth mindset.

Daily Focus on Progress

A strong emphasis on the daily process is essential to evaluating progress, as the coach explained. He articulated that each day demands an assessment of what needs to be accomplished for both the team and individual athletes. This approach involves breaking down tasks into manageable components, allowing athletes to concentrate on immediate goals without becoming overwhelmed by broader outcomes. By encouraging athletes to stay present and focus on what they can control, the team establishes a conducive environment for consistent improvement and preparation.

Balancing Energy and Emotions in Training

Coach athlete dynamics hinge on managing the mental and emotional aspects of training effectively, with the guest coach describing his process as 'dancing with tension.' He explained how he adjusts the energy levels of his group based on observations during practice sessions, shifting between motivating and calming approaches as needed. This balance involves recognizing when athletes need a boost in morale or when they require a more relaxed atmosphere to perform at their best. For instance, organizing a fun activity like laser tag before a significant race proved effective in alleviating pressure and fostering team unity, which ultimately translated to better performance on race day.

Creating a Culture of Belonging

Building a strong team culture revolves around fostering a sense of belonging and recognizing individual contributions among all athletes, not just the top performers. The coach emphasized that every member must feel necessary and valued, which can enhance motivation and teamwork. By highlighting various forms of contribution, such as resilience and support for teammates, everyone on the team is encouraged to play a role in creating a cohesive unit. This approach ensures that even those who may not be competing at the highest level feel connected and essential to the team's overall success.

On Coaching with Magness & Marcus

Episode 59: Culture and Belonging: Interview with NAU coach Mike Smith

Episode guests

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Quick takeaways

Deep dives

Transitioning Leadership of Championship Teams

Language and Mindset in Coaching

Daily Focus on Progress

Balancing Energy and Emotions in Training

Creating a Culture of Belonging

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