Coach Your Brains Out

Tod's Volleyball Coach's Book of Lists Coach Your Brains Out: The Art and Science of Coaching VolleyballThe Inner Knight: Train and Compete Like a ChampionBecome a Patron to support the show.

Chris Chamides, a successful volleyball coach known for leading his team to remarkable achievements, discusses the pivotal journey of building a united team. He emphasizes the importance of emotional connections and communication among players, transforming a fragmented group into a cohesive powerhouse. Chamides also navigates the challenges of roster development and the shift from coaching men’s to women’s teams, sharing insights on collaboration and leadership. He reflects on his unique transition from high school math teacher to coach, revealing how both roles intersect through observation and motivation.

Chris Chamides, the Head Women's Soccer Coach at Loyola Marymount University and WCC Coach of the Year, shares his journey of revitalizing a struggling program. He discusses the unique challenges of coaching transitions and the impact of the pandemic on team dynamics. Chamides emphasizes the importance of fostering player autonomy and trust, and reflects on the lessons learned through early coaching challenges. His insights on building a strong team culture and attracting talent offer valuable strategies for any coach.

Coach Your Brains Out: The Art and Science of Coaching VolleyballThe Inner Knight: Train and Compete Like a ChampionBecome a Patron to support the show.

Coach Your Brains Out: The Art and Science of Coaching VolleyballThe Inner Knight: Train and Compete Like a ChampionBecome a Patron to support the show.

Jesse Pina, founder of a volleyball club for at-risk youth, offers invaluable insights on youth sports development. He discusses the journey of coaches who empower young athletes by focusing on character and inclusivity. The conversation highlights the need to prioritize personal growth over profits and competition. Pina shares innovative coaching methods, such as encouraging multi-sport participation and engaging formats like 'smash ball'. Ultimately, he illustrates how mentorship and a supportive environment can transform youth volleyball into a vehicle for life lessons.

Explore innovative motor learning techniques in volleyball coaching, focusing on the balance between biomechanics and athlete performance. Discover how traditional methods of arm positioning are being challenged, with unique training practices like using chalk marks for feedback during jumps. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of athlete autonomy and effective communication in training adaptations. Learn about the Constraints-Led Approach, debunking myths while fostering relationships that enhance both performance and rehabilitation.

Andy Bass, a mental skills coach for the Pittsburgh Pirates, shares his insights on the psychological aspects of sports. He discusses overcoming adversity, emphasizing resilience and adaptability amidst challenges. Bass explores the constraints-led approach in motor learning, advocating for flexible training that fosters exploration. He also highlights the significance of character over fleeting confidence in athletes' development. Finally, he delves into strategies for utilizing failure as a learning opportunity, promoting a growth mindset through effective feedback.

Rett Larson, a strength coach for professional and Olympic volleyball teams, discusses innovative training approaches for athletes. He emphasizes personalized training interventions for injury prevention, targeting vulnerable areas like shoulders and knees. Rett advocates for using aqua bags and wearable resistance for performance enhancement, moving away from traditional heavy lifting. He also compares training methods for beach and indoor volleyball, and shares insights on effective coaching qualities across cultures, stressing the importance of communication and relationship building.

In this conversation with Rett Larson, the strength coach for the German women's volleyball team, he shares his exciting transition from coaching diving to volleyball. Rett's 'no zombies' philosophy champions dynamic training, blending fun with serious preparation. He discusses innovative warm-up techniques that engage athletes while enhancing performance. The chat also touches on microdosing strength training to prevent injuries and boost technique without lengthy sessions, creating a vibrant and effective coaching environment.